ACHIEVING A HEALTHY SUN TAN

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Table of Content

  • THE SUN VS YOUR SKIN
  • WHAT ARE TANNING ESSENTIALS?
  • THE COMMON SUN TAN ISSUES
  • MAINTAINING THE TAN
  • TIPS FOR SAFE TANNING

The Sun, beyond its awe-inspiring light show, also holds the power to give us a tan. A lot of people love having a tan because it reminds them of their beach vacations and carefree days.

But before rushing out in the sun to get that golden glow, it is important to keep some things in mind.

THE SUN VS YOUR SKIN

Your skin is constantly under threat from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays are of two types: UVA rays and UVB rays.

The UVA rays pierce deep into your skin’s layers, causing damage to collagen and elastin, which are extremely important for maintaining youthful and firm skin. Which then results in wrinkles, sunspots, and an undesirable texture.

On the other hand, UVB rays are the ones responsible for initial sunburn and they trigger the production of melanin – which is your skin’s natural defense system.

Melanin acts as a shield that absorbs UV radiation and gives you that sought-after tan. However, we do have a twist here! Individuals with fair skin, have less melanin, they tan slower, and are more prone to sunburn. Therefore, those with lighter skin tones need to take extra precautions.

On the contrary, people with dark skin tones have a built-in advantage since their melanin levels are high, allowing them to tan more easily.

Regardless of your skin type or tone, it is always better to practice safe sun habits.

WHAT ARE TANNING ESSENTIALS?

  • SUNSCREEN

Sunscreen has to be your best friend and your trusty companion when you aim for a healthy tan. We have two types of sunscreens: physical sunscreen and chemical sunscreen.

How are they both different from each other?

Physical sunscreens work by reflecting the UV rays away from your skin. Whereas, chemical sunscreens absorb those rays and turn them into heat, which is then released from your skin.

For everyday use, it is advisable to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum sunscreens are the ones that shield against both UVA and UVB rays.

Additionally, do not be fooled by the myth that a higher SPF means faster tanning. Higher SPF can only provide better protection, allowing you to tan gradually without getting burnt.

  • REAPPLICATION

Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time, especially with sweat and water exposure. Just like you have to recharge your phone battery, remember to reapply your sunscreen every two hours, generously. The reapplication has to be done more frequently if you are swimming or sweating heavily.

Pay special attention to areas that are often missed such as your ears the tops of your feet, your lips, and the back of your neck.

  • SEEKING SHADE

The midday sun which is usually between 10 am and 4 pm is like a dragon breathing fire! It is very intense!

You must seek shade during these peak hours. Whether you have an umbrella, find a shady spot, or relax under a cool tree, it is all safe for you.

A skin tan that is achieved gradually in the shade will be more even and longer-lasting as compared to a quick burn under the harsh midday sun.

  • SUN PROTECTION DRESSING

Now, sun protection is not limited to sunscreens. You should consider wearing lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants that are made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. They will provide an additional layer of defense against the UV rays.

You can even wear a hat with a wide brim to shade your face, neck, and ears. Similarly, sunglasses block UVA and UVB rays, protecting your eyes from them.

  • HYDRATION

Hydration is the key. Surprisingly, the sun can even dehydrate you. It is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin plump and healthy, which can help you achieve a more even tan.

Since, dehydrated skin is dry, flaky, and less responsive to tanning, it makes it difficult to achieve that bronzed look.

  • PATIENCE

Now the golden rule of tanning has to be patience as tanning is a slow and steady process. Ditch those tanning beds because they emit harmful UV rays that accelerate aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. Instead, go for natural tanning processes.

Gradual exposure allows your skin to adapt and produce melanin safely. Resulting in a long-lasting, beautiful tan.

The above image shows what tan lines can look like

THE COMMON SUN TAN ISSUES

Achieving a flawless sun tan and maintaining it does come with some challenges. Here is a guide on how you can tackle these tanning issues and enjoy your tan:

  • TAN LINES

Tan lines are those visible lines or marks on the skin that are caused between areas that have been exposed to the sun and areas that have been covered, either by clothing or accessories.

Tan lines are more noticeable during the summer months as people spend more time outdoors wearing revealing clothing. Some people deliberately seek to minimize tan lines by wearing minimal clothing, while some prefer to avoid tanning altogether to protect their skin from sun damage.

How can you protect your skin from tan lines?

  • Exfoliate your skin the day before tanning so all the dead cells are removed and your skin is smooth and ready for an even tan.
  • Do not lie in position the entire time. Shift your position throughout your sunbathing session so all the areas are equally exposed.
  • Go for minimal coverage clothing.
  • Not just this, post-sun care is also very important. Apply a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for this purpose as it contains ingredients that soothe your skin while promoting a more even tan.
  • SUNBURN

When your skin is overexposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, it gets damaged. This damage is known as “sunburn”. The UV rays penetrate the skin, damage its cells, and lead to inflammation and redness.

Sunburn usually appears within a few hours of sun exposure. It can even cause discomfort, pain, and blistering in some severe cases.

SYMPTOMS OF SUNBURN:

  1. The affected area becomes red and feels warm to touch
  2. It can be painful and itchy
  3. There might be moderate swelling in the affected area
  4. In severe cases, blistering may also occur on the skin

Not only this, it also increases the risk of long-term skin damage, which includes premature aging and skin cancer.

Here is how you can protect your skin from sunburn:

  • To cool down your skin, take a cool bath and apply cool compresses to the affected area. For a natural option, you can apply Aloe Vera gel as it has anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Hydration is always the key to better skin! Drink plenty of water to rehydrate your skin.
  • You can soothe the sunburn with a fragrance-free moisturizer.
  • Avoid sun exposure until your sunburn heals completely.
  • MAINTAINING THE TAN

Achieving a sun tan is a time-consuming process that can fade away quickly if not maintained properly.

To prolong your sun tan, here is what you can do:

  • Moisturize your skin daily to prevent dry, flaky skin as dry skin causes the tan to fade faster
  • Stay hydrated! This is the key to maintaining your skin and a healthy tan.
  • Gently exfoliate your skin, so your tan fades evenly. Avoid using harsh scrubs
  • You can even use self-tanning lotions or gradual tanners. They help you maintain a healthy glow while also adding a touch of color to areas that fade faster.

TIPS FOR SAFE TANNING

  • Limit your sun exposure during the peak hours
  • You must seek shade whenever possible
  • Opt for protective clothing
  • Must apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, apply it generously, and do not forget to reapply every two hours
  • Avoid tanning beds as they emit UV rays just like the sun
  • Sunlight exposure does trigger Vitamin D production in the skin, which is essential for your bones and the immune system.

However, keep in mind that excessive sun exposure is not recommended for Vitamin D production.