What Makes An Organic Self-Tanner?

In the quest for a perfect sunless tan combined with high-demand for organic and natural products, many consumers have started searching for self-tanners claiming to be "completely organic." But is there really such a thing as a 100% organic self-tanner? In this post, we will discuss how natural self-tanners can be and why Fake Bake® products are a great choice if organic is what you’re after.

Defining Organic Beauty Products

In the world of beauty and skincare, the term organic has gained tremendous popularity. It's associated with products that contain naturally derived ingredients and are free from synthetic chemicals. To be certified organic, a product must come from organic farming without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It will have restricted use of additives like artificial preservatives or color agents. Plus, it must meet organic production, handling, processing and labeling standards defined by the USDA. Speaking of the USDA, for a product to label itself as “organic”, it must contain at least 95% organically produced ingredients. So immediately you can see that the idea of a 100% organic product is a stretch. Following are a few elements of self-tanners that can be a challenge to achieve for an organic self-tanner.

1. The Core Ingredient: Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)

DHA is the active ingredient responsible for the tanning effect in most self-tanners. It is derived from sources like sugar cane or beets, making it a natural origin component. However, the process of extracting and synthesizing DHA typically involves chemical reactions, which means that even if DHA originates from natural sources, it goes through a chemical transformation.

2. Preservatives and Stabilizers

To create a self-tanner that lasts longer and remains stable, manufacturers often use preservatives and stabilizers. While some of these compounds may be naturally derived, they still undergo processing to enhance their effectiveness and shelf life. This processing can compromise the "organic" label of the product.

3. Color Enhancers

Organic self-tanners may still contain color enhancers and additives to improve the appearance and longevity of the tan. These additives are often synthetic and can contradict the claim of being completely organic.

The Best Self-Tanners Are Effective While Mostly Organic

While the desire for organic products is understandable, it's equally essential to prioritize effectiveness when choosing a self-tanner. Here are some compelling reasons why:

1. Achieving Desired Results

Effective self-tanners provide a more natural-looking tan that develops evenly and lasts longer. In contrast, some so-called “organic” self-tanners may produce streaky or uneven results due to limitations in their formulations.

2. Time and Cost Efficiency

Self-tanners marketed as organic might require more frequent applications to maintain a tan, increasing the overall cost and time spent on your tanning routine. Effective self-tanners typically offer longer-lasting results, reducing the need for constant reapplication.

3. Better Ingredients

Quality self-tanners often contain skin-nourishing ingredients like moisturizers, antioxidants, and vitamins. These ingredients can help maintain skin health while providing a tan, ensuring your skin looks and feels its best.

4. Customization

Many high-quality self-tanners offer a range of shades and formulations to cater to different skin tones and preferences. This level of customization is challenging to find in supposedly organic options.

In the pursuit of a safe and beautiful tan, the term "organic" should not be the sole factor in choosing your self-tanner. The reality is that most self-tanners, even those labeled as "organic," contain some level of processed or synthetic ingredients. Instead of fixating on the organic label, prioritize effectiveness and the overall quality of the product. At Fake Bake® we are constantly working to develop the cleanest, most-natural beauty products that can be made.