#1. Amino Acids
DHA (the active ingredient in most self-tanners) reacts with
these proteins in your skin to produce pigment and give you a bottled,
sun-kissed glow.
#2. Australia
The nation of sun and surf got it right with its "Slip, Slop,
Slap" campaign that launched in 1981. Due to staggering rates of skin
cancer, Aussies were encouraged to, "Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen,
and slap on a hat." Continuing that tradition, the nation Down Under is
home to some of the most innovative (and effective) sun care products
today.
#3. Baby Powder
Veteran spray-tanners dust their bods with this drugstore
basic after appointments to reduce stickiness and ensure longer-lasting
color. Experts recommend paying special attention to areas where skin
touches skin, like the elbows and underarms.
Read More: Self-Tanner Winners
#4. Barrier Cream
Tanner speak for regular body lotions, these creams are your
best weapon against dark patches on the elbows, wrists, and ankles.
Before using any self-tanning product, apply one of these creams to dry
areas on your body to avoid getting leopard spots (parched skin soaks up
more color). 
sun protection 2
#5. Basil Cell Carcinoma
The most prevalent type of skin cancer (not to mention one of the most
common forms of cancer in general), basal cell carcinoma is thought to
affect two million Americans a year.
#6. Chemical Sunscreen
Unlike physical sunscreens (which deflect UV rays), chemical
sunscreens provide SPF protection by absorbing harmful rays. Due to the
smaller molecular size of their active ingredients (avobenzone and
oxybenzone are among the most popular), these sunscreens are available
in super-sheer fluid formulas.
Read More: 9 Ways to Shave Less This Summer
#7. Dihydroxyacetone
Also known as DHA, this FDA-approved self-tanning ingredient
is found in most bottled-bronzers and also has the endorsement of the
Skin Cancer Foundation and American Medical Society.
#8. Fitzpatrick Scale
This scientific classification system divides all skin types
and tones into six categories based on pigmentation and genetic history.
Used by dermatologists to determine the risk of developing skin cancer,
this scale is also referred to in studies about tanning habits.
sun protection 3#9. Free Radicals
Found in poisons like cigarette smoke and car exhaust, these
reactive molecules damage cells and accelerate the aging process by
attacking collagen and elastin reserves. Antioxidants such as vitamins E
and C interact with and halt free radicals from wrecking havoc. Get
your fill via wheat germ, apricots and leafy greens like kale and
spinach.
Read More: Best Hair, Body, and Face Oils
#10. Interal SPFs
Get ready for some freaky science: certain foods and drinks
contain a touch of SPF (most ingested grades hover around 2) that can
help you fight harmful rays when you include them in your regular diet.
Not substitutes for topical SPF protection, these good-for you eats are
also usually rich in anti-oxidants. Try red wine, chocolate and
tomatoes.
For more from Real Beauty:
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