As winter fades and the first hints of spring emerge, there’s nothing like a sun-kissed glow to shake off the cold hues. But why wait for summer when you can glow responsibly now? With modern tanning solutions, you can bring the radiance of spring into your skincare routine — without the UV damage.
The Glow Up of Tanning Over the Years
For decades, achieving the perfect tan meant hours under the sun, risking UV damage, premature aging, and serious health concerns like skin cancer. When sunbathing gave way to early self-tanners and spray tans, the trade-off was often streaky results, unnatural orange tones, and that infamous fake-tan smell.
Beyond personal health, traditional tanning methods also carried an environmental toll. Many tanning products contained aerosols, synthetic dyes, and non-biodegradable ingredients that contributed to toxic runoff and pollution. As consumers become more and more conscious of both their skin and the planet, the industry has to evolve.
Get Sun-Kissed Without the Risk
Old-school tanning solutions rely on harsh chemicals that often leave skin dry, irritated, or discolored. Today’s formulations are designed to work with the skin instead of against it, providing a natural-looking glow without compromise.
The key to modern self-tanners is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a sugar-derived compound that reacts with amino acids in the skin to create a bronzed effect. While early versions of DHA-based tanners could cause patchiness and dryness, today’s solutions incorporate hydrating and nourishing ingredients such as aloe, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C to enhance skin health while delivering an even tan. Some formulas even include SPF and antioxidants, offering a multi-functional approach to self-tanning.
The Clean Glow: The Rise of Skin- and Eco-Friendly Tanning
Consumers are no longer just looking for a golden glow, they want clean, sustainable products that align with their values.
“Our clients want products that are as safe as they are effective,” says Courtney Claghorn, Co-Founder of SUGARED + BRONZED. “That’s why our tanning solutions are free of parabens, sulfates, and other harsh additives. The main ingredient in our solution (DHA) comes from sugar beets. We strive to keep our formulas simple, yet nourishing.”
When selecting a next-generation tanner, consumers should look for:
- Skin-loving ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, aloe, and vitamin C for hydration and skin health.
- Eco-conscious formulations: Naturally derived DHA and biodegradable ingredients.
- Sustainable packaging: Compostable pouches, refillable bottles, and reduced plastic waste.
- Ethical business practices: Cruelty-free, vegan formulations, and fair-trade sourcing.
SUGARED + BRONZED has been at the forefront of these changes. “The tanning industry is seeing a major shift toward sustainability, and I love that consumers are pushing brands to do better,” Claghorn adds. “We prioritize eco-friendly choices whenever we can — like using naturally derived DHA, cutting out unnecessary plastic, and formulating without harsh chemicals.”
A New Golden Standard for Tanning
Tanning is no longer just about achieving a sun-kissed look, it’s about protecting and nourishing the skin while minimizing environmental impact. Conscious consumers are demanding better products, and brands are stepping up with cleaner, greener formulations that deliver results without compromise.
As Claghorn puts it, “Since UV exposure is so damaging, it’s great to see the industry moving toward solutions that give you the glow without the risk, because glowing skin should always be healthy skin.”
With summer just around the bend, it’s the perfect time to embrace a glow that’s as healthy as it is beautiful. Reach for tanning products that nourish you, helping you bloom into the new season with confidence and care.
