Understanding the Tingle Sensation in Bronzing Lotions

What Causes the Tingle Factor

The tingle comes from special active ingredients added into certain tanning lotions. Two main ingredients provide the tingle effect:

Menthol

Menthol is an organic compound derived from mint plants that elicits a cooling, soothing feeling. It tricks nerve endings into feeling cold even at normal temperatures. When added to tingle tanning lotions, menthol creates a chill across the skin once the lotion is applied.

Benzyl Nicotinate

Also known as nicotinic acid benzyl ester, this organic compound produces a flushing response that causes blood vessels under the skin to dilate. This stimulates blood flow and creates a warm, prickly sensation.

Tingle Intensity Levels

The intensity of tingle a lotion produces will vary based on the amount and types of tingling ingredients in its formula. Here is an overview of the tingle levels you may see:

Ultra Tingle (XXXX Tingle)

The highest tingle level uses greater concentrations of ingredients like menthol and nicotinic acid benzyl to create an intense yet tolerable tingling feeling across the skin. It may feel quite hot.

Super Tingle (XXX Tingle)

A very strong tingle sensation is produced from high ingredient concentrations still, just moderately lower than ultra tingle lotions. Expect a fiery sensation.

Extreme Tingle (XX Tingle)

Extreme tingle lotions create a very noticeable prickly heat feeling. The warming and chilling combination spans over the skin surface quite readily following application.

Tingle (X Tingle)

Standard tingle effect lotions provide mild to moderate tingling. You'll get a light, buzzy sensation that is more tame than higher intensities.

How to Manage Tingle Intensity

If a tingle tanning lotion starts feeling too intense, there are a few things you can try:

Remove After 5-10 Minutes

Standard tanning best practices are to leave lotions on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing any residue away. If it tingles too much, rinse immediately after get your base tan layer.

Mix With Non-Tingle Lotions

Cut the tingle by mixing it with other non-tingle tanning lotions you have. Start with a 1:1 ratio and adjust to your comfort and preference.

Focus On Lower Tingle Areas

Certain body parts like the elbows, knees, and feet tolerate tingle lotions the best. Avoid using ultra-high tingle blends on sensitive regions until knowing your tolerance.

Moisturize After Tanning

Because tingle formulas can dry your skin, make sure to apply a hydrating moisturizer after tanning to nourish and restore moisture balance.

Maximizing Your Tingle Tanning Results

Here are some extra tips for optimal tanning results when using tingle lotions:

Prepare Skin Before Tanning

Exfoliate and shave a day before tanning so skin is smooth and ready to bronze without barrier layers for the tingle ingredients to penetrate better.

Use Applicator Mitt

Lotion applicator mitts ensure you evenly cover all skin smoothly and efficiently before the tingle fades.

Leave On For 5-10 Minutes

Give the special active ingredients enough time to stimulate blood flow and deeply prepare skin for UV tanning bulbs before rinsing.

Rinse Thoroughly

Make sure to rinse all lotion residue off before tanning. These ingredients often make bulbs dirty faster otherwise.

Use 1-3 Times Per Week

Because tingle lotions can dry your skin, limit use to a few sessions per week and moisturize well between tanning.

With the right precautions and practices, tingle tanning lotions can give your tan some extra bronzing power while providing that satisfying tingly feeling many tanners know and love!

FAQs

What ingredients cause the tingle sensation?

The main ingredients that lead to the tingle feeling are menthol and benzyl nicotinate. Menthol provides a cooling effect, while benzyl nicotinate stimulates blood flow to the skin's surface.

Can you tan without tingle lotions?

Yes, not all tanning lotions contain tingle ingredients. There are many non-tingle bronzing lotions that still prepare your skin for UV exposure and support the tanning process.

Why does tingle intensity vary between lotions?

The concentration and types of tingle ingredients contained in the lotion determine the intensity. More menthol and benzyl nicotinate means a stronger tingle sensation.

What should I do if a tingle tanning lotion is too intense?

If a tingle lotion is too strong, you can try rinsing it off after 5-10 minutes instead of leaving it on, diluting it by mixing with other lotions, focusing it on skin areas that tolerate tingling better, or moisturizing after tanning.