Yes, plateau breakers are specifically formulated tanning lotions designed to help experienced tanners overcome a tanning plateau and deepen their colour. They work by using advanced ingredients that further stimulate the skin’s natural melanin production, enhance skin condition, and improve the tanning process, allowing you to push past a stalled tan.
Hitting a tanning peak, or 'plateau', is a common experience for regular sunbed users. It’s that frustrating point where, despite consistent sessions, your tan simply doesn't seem to get any darker. This article will explain why plateaus happen and how plateau breakers are engineered to help you move beyond them.
What Exactly is a Tanning Plateau?
A tanning plateau occurs when your skin's ability to produce melanin, the pigment responsible for tanning, reaches a temporary limit. Your body has a natural defence mechanism against excessive UV exposure, and once your skin cells (melanocytes) have produced a certain amount of melanin, or if your skin cell turnover rate is too fast, your tanning progress can slow down or stop altogether.
For a deeper dive into why your tan might have stalled, you can read our guide: Why Has My Tan Stopped Getting Darker?
How Do Plateau Breakers Work to Deepen Your Tan?
Plateau breakers are not magic potions, but rather scientifically formulated lotions that work with your body's natural tanning process to maximise its potential. They typically achieve this through several key mechanisms:
1. Enhanced Melanin Stimulation
Many plateau breakers contain advanced tanning ingredients that go beyond basic accelerators. These can include higher concentrations of tyrosine derivatives, L-DOPA, or other melanin-activating compounds. These ingredients aim to provide your melanocytes with additional 'fuel' or signals to produce more melanin, even when they might otherwise be slowing down. For more on this, see Thalitan & Tyrosine: What Do They Do in Tanning Lotions?
2. Improved Skin Condition and Hydration
Healthy, hydrated skin tans more effectively and retains a tan longer. Plateau breakers often include rich moisturisers, vitamins, and skin conditioners (like shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe vera) that improve skin health. Well-conditioned skin is better prepared to absorb UV light and produce an even, deep tan. Dry, flaky skin can impede tanning and make a tan appear uneven or dull.
3. Microcirculation Boosters
Some advanced plateau breakers, particularly those with a 'tingle' effect, can temporarily increase microcirculation in the skin. This increased blood flow is thought to deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, potentially aiding the tanning process. While tingles are not for everyone, experienced tanners often use them specifically for their plateau-breaking properties.
4. Antioxidant Protection
UV exposure can create free radicals in the skin. Plateau breakers often include antioxidants (like vitamins E and C) to help protect skin cells. By reducing oxidative stress, these ingredients can support overall skin health, which is crucial for consistent tanning.
5. Exfoliation Support
While not a direct ingredient in all plateau breakers, some formulations include mild exfoliants or skin-renewing ingredients. Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells that can build up on the surface, allowing for a fresher, more receptive layer of skin to be exposed to UV light. This can help prevent a dull, uneven tan and prepare the skin for deeper colour. Remember, exfoliating before tanning is always recommended.
Types of Plateau Breakers
The term 'plateau breaker' isn't a single product type but rather a category of advanced tanning lotions designed for this specific purpose. They often overlap with other lotion types:
- Advanced Maximisers: These are often bronzer-free formulas with potent melanin-stimulating ingredients. They focus purely on boosting your natural tan. See our guide: What Is a Tanning Maximiser?
- Tingle Lotions: Known for their warming and reddening sensation, tingles (like those explored in our Tingles guide) are powerful microcirculation boosters often used by experienced tanners to push past plateaus.
- Bronzing Lotions: While not directly stimulating melanin, bronzers (both DHA and cosmetic) can give the appearance of a deeper tan, helping to visually overcome a plateau. Many advanced bronzers also contain powerful maximisers. Learn more in our Bronzers guide.
For a comprehensive overview, our Plateau Breakers category page details various options.
When Should You Consider Using a Plateau Breaker?
Plateau breakers are generally recommended for experienced tanners who have already established a base tan and are finding their progress has stalled. They are not typically for beginners, as their potent formulas might be too intense for unacclimated skin.
If you've been consistently tanning, using a good quality accelerator or maximiser, and maintaining proper skin hydration, but your tan simply isn't getting darker, then a plateau breaker might be the next step in your tanning journey.
Managing Expectations and Complementary Strategies
While plateau breakers can be highly effective, it's important to have realistic expectations. They work by enhancing your skin's natural ability to tan, not by creating an artificial tan. Individual results will always vary based on your skin type, genetics, and tanning history.
To get the most out of your plateau breaker, consider these complementary strategies:
- Exfoliate Regularly: Ensure your skin is smooth and free of dead skin cells.
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Drink plenty of water and use a high-quality moisturiser daily to keep your skin supple.
- Rotate Your Lotions: Switching between different types of lotions can sometimes help keep your skin 'guessing' and responsive. Read our guide: Should You Rotate Tanning Creams to Prevent Your Tanning Progress Slowing Down?
- Take Short Breaks: Sometimes, a brief break from tanning can allow your skin to reset before you resume your sessions with a plateau breaker.
Explore our range of advanced tanning lotions designed to help you break through plateaus:
Frequently Asked Questions About Plateau Breakers
Are all plateau breakers the same?
No, plateau breakers come in various formulations. Some focus on intense melanin stimulation, others incorporate tingle technology for microcirculation, and some combine these with advanced bronzers. The best choice depends on your skin's tolerance and your tanning goals.
How often should I use a plateau breaker?
Plateau breakers are typically used when you've hit a tanning peak. They aren't usually for every session from the start. Follow the specific product's instructions, but many experienced tanners use them for a few consecutive sessions to push past the plateau, then return to a maximiser or accelerator.
Can I use a plateau breaker if I'm new to tanning?
Generally, plateau breakers are not recommended for beginners. Their potent ingredients or tingle effects can be too intense for skin that is not accustomed to UV exposure and advanced lotions. It's best to start with a gentle tanning accelerator and build up a base tan first.
