Tips on How to Tan Safely

Tanning is the process of protecting your skin from the harmful UVA and UVB sun's rays, which are linked to skin cancer. It transforms your skin color into that beautiful bronze all over tan. It is always important to apply a sunscreen before getting a tan outdoors.

Sun Protection Factor (SPF) refers to the amount of UV radiation that can penetrate your skin. The higher the SPF in sunscreens the more the protection. For e.g., SPF-15 means 1/15th of the UV rays are in contact with your skin.

There is a difference between a sunscreen and a sunblock. A sunscreen has an SPF rating and allows some UV rays to penetrate your skin to get a tan, whereas a sunblock has no SPF rating and blocks the UV rays completely, and therefore there is no tanning effect.

A healthy tan is a misconception, as it has been proven that there is a direct correlation between skin cancer and getting a sun tan. However, if you go to the beach for a tan, it is advisable to carry your shades, towel, sandals, hat, T-shirt, sunblock, aloe, and cocoa butter. Also, the given tips will be useful.

● Apply sunscreen with a low SPF before you dress and go out in the sun. Take care not to leave out any areas.

● If you have sensitive skin, use a hypoallergenic sun-care product.

● It is advisable to stay out of the sun between 12pm-3pm, as the intensity of the sun is at its peak during this period.

● Keep at least a two-day gap between two tanning sessions.

● While going for a swim or playing water sports, use a waterproof formula.

● Use a good lip screen to protect your lips from getting burnt or chapped.

● Wear a hat and t-shirt when you are enjoying the weather, playing sports, or relaxing on a nice, sunny day.

Indoor tanning methods are available today. These methods are slightly more protective than getting a natural tan as this is done in a controlled environment.

Here are a few things to keep in mind before you go for an indoor tan

● For a better tan, use the lamps with low UVB (ultraviolet type B) rays. These bulbs also provide a darker, long-lasting tan.

● Use lotions which have DHA (dihydroxyacetone) as well as SPF to moisturize your skin. According to the FDA, it is safe to apply DHA to your skin.

● Protect sensitive areas of your skin that are normally never exposed to UV radiations.

● It is important not to remain inside the bed for more than 10 to 15 minutes.

You could get a tan in the confines of your home too. This is possible with the range of products available, which include lotions, gels, wipes, sprays, and even pills, all of which contain DHA. DHA turns brown when exposed to oxygen.

This process takes two to three hours and the effects of the procedure lasts until the skin cells are naturally shed. As these products have vitamins and moisturizers in them, the skin remains healthy, soft, and protected. Here are a few tips to help you while you tan.

● Scrub away the dead flaky skin as that can soak up the color and create an uneven finish. Select a lighter color on the shade card.

● Use body lotion over the areas you want to tan. Doing this will cover any dry areas and provide a smooth surface for the lotion.

● Massage the product into the skin completely.

● Use the best sunscreen, suitable for your skin type along with the self-tanning products.

Disclaimer: This is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.