As the cooler weather gives way to sunlight and warmth, many of us are eager to achieve that sun-kissed glow. However, outdoor sunbathing comes with risks, even when using sunscreen. It's important to remember that a tan is a sign of skin damage, as increased melanin production is your body's natural response to protect against future sun exposure. Here's how to tan safely in the sun.
Why Tanning May Be Dangerous
While tanning and sunbathing can feel good due to Vitamin D exposure and mood improvement, they carry risks, especially without sunscreen. A tan itself indicates skin damage, as the skin redistributes melanin for protection. Here are some dangers of tanning:
- Skin cancers, including melanoma
- Sunburn
- Heat rash
- Dehydration
- Premature skin ageing
- Eye damage
- Immune system suppression
The most serious concern is skin cancer, with around 90% of cases caused by the sun's harmful rays. Unfortunately, there's no such thing as a "healthy tan." The safest way to tan is to avoid the sun and use a fake tan. However, if you're set on sunbathing, here's how to do it as safely as possible.
How Your Body Gets Vitamin D
While there's no healthy tanning, moderation is key. UVB rays are the primary way our bodies produce Vitamin D. Surprisingly, a balanced diet and about 20 minutes of sun exposure daily are usually enough. Those with darker skin tones may need more time in the sun.
Vitamin D, the "sunshine vitamin," helps our bodies absorb calcium and prevent various health issues, including high blood pressure, low moods, and more. It's definitely something to soak up responsibly.
Top Tips for Safe Tanning
Since we all love a good tan, here are some guidelines for safe sun exposure:
- Slather on the Sun Cream: Even with sunscreen, you can still tan. The SPF number indicates how long you can be exposed to sunlight before burning. Look for "broad spectrum" on the bottle for UVA and UVB protection. Check the UVA star rating, aiming for the highest protection.
- Know Your Tan Limit: Your skin has a tanning cut-off point when it can't produce more melanin. This varies from person to person. After this point, you're just exposing your skin to UV damage. Be cautious between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is strongest. Take breaks in the shade to reduce UV intensity and risk of sunburn.
- Avoid the Added Fake Tan: Combining fake tan and SPF in one product can cause the SPF to break down. Fake tan at least 24 hours before sun exposure, as adding SPF on fresh tan can degrade the formula.
- Always Stay Away from Tanning Beds: Tanning beds expose your skin to high levels of UVA and UVB rays, posing more risks than natural sunlight. For a quick fix, opt for fake tanning instead.
- Add On Some After Sun: If you get sunburned, soothe your skin immediately to prevent blisters and inflammation. Hydrated skin helps maintain your tan. Avoid after-sun products with high alcohol content, as they can dry out your skin. Instead, use aloe vera gel for a cooling effect.
Remember, tanning in the sun always carries risks. By applying sunscreen, seeking shade, and taking breaks, you can enjoy a summer glow more safely.
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