What is Tanning Oil?

Some folks won't go the beach without their trusty bottles of tanning oil. Unlike creamy tanning lotion, tanning oil is a clear or darkish liquid which usually contains less sun protection than lotion. The various types of tanning oil contain a number of different ingredients and offer a host of benefits.

Types

Dozens of tanning oils are slicked across the market. Some may boast all-natural ingredients. Others will contain chemicals that add sun protection. Tanning oils can be applied as a liquid directly to the skin or sprayed on in a pump. Some tanning oils are specifically formulate for outdoor tanning, but others are for indoor use in tanning beds and salons.

Ingredients

Coconut oil and sunflower oil are often the main ingredient of tanning oils, especially those that only contain all-natural ingredients. Other additives include almond oil, aloe vera, lanolin, cocoa butter, eucalyptus oil and carrot extract. Green tea and fruit extracts have popped up in some. Vitamins are also often added to the products, namely vitamins E, C and A. Other oils start with a base of mineral oil and a host of natural ingredients with added chemicals. Some will contain an added fragrance.

Some people also make their own tanning oil from a small handful of products. Some use olive oil infused with a few drops of iodine. Others add a bit of carrot juice to the mix to promote tanning.

Application

Tanning oil is not difficult to apply, as long as some certain guidelines are followed. It's best used on both the skin and the scalp. Don't use too much oil, or it will start to clog--rather than moisturize--the skin. Those with oily skin should also be especially careful in their dosage. The oil can also be quite messy, leaving heavy residue on furniture, towels and even an oily film in pools. If it has not been fully absorbed before entering a pool, wipe off any obvious excess.

Benefits

The most immediate benefit of tanning oil is the moisture it brings your skin. Skin will readily drink the natural oils found in many of the products. Some tanning oils also contain ingredients that slow down the aging process, such as grape seed and sesame oil. Coconut oil--a major component of many tanning oils--hails benefits that range from moisturizing the skin and scalp to relieving stress.

Warning

Not all tanning oils contain sunscreen. Some stick to natural sunscreens, such as grape seed, which will protect your skin but not the same degree as a potent sunblock.
If oils do contain a sunblock, many don't go above an SPF-4, which is very low on the scale of protection. Because tanning oil is mainly used to promote tanning, it would be counterproductive to infuse it with a strong sunscreen.

Because of the coconut oil and added fragrances, tanning oil can carry a hefty aroma. That's fine on the open beach, but be considerate if wearing the oil indoors. Also refrain from applying the sweet-scented oil in a place with lots of insects.