Making Tanning In The Sun Safe And Fun

By Haywood Hunter


Many people want to get a sun-kissed look, but don't want to go through the expense or constant upkeep of a spray-on or other fake tan. That is why tanning in the sun is a great, free alternative to these artificial methods. However, if you are going to sit in the sun for an extended period of time, there are some precautions you must take to ensure you don't harm your skin.



When outdoors, the sun will emit both UVA and UVB rays that are absorbed by the skin. While both are effective at darkening your skin, they can be dangerous without precautions, especially the UVB rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin than UVA rays. Shade, hats and sunscreen are all great for keeping those UVB rays in check.

In order to properly protect your body when tanning, you must realize that protection goes beyond just the skin. Your eyes are a vital part of your everyday life and can be damaged by the sun. You must ensure that when you go outside for any significant length of time, that you are wearing sunglasses. Check to ensure that they block both UVA and UVB rays or else they won't be of much help.



Though you are trying to get a tan, there is such a thing as too much exposure. You should alternate sitting or working in the sun with sitting or working in the shade. By alternating both, you can help prevent burning or drying out of the skin, both of which can be very painful. It will also help you stay cooler on really hot days, which can help prevent a whole host of other health conditions related to the heat. Wearing a hat will also help give you some shade and protect areas prone to burning like the nose and scalp.

The most important part of your skin care regiment for tanning is sunscreen. There are literally hundreds of options out on the market, from high-end and expensive cremes to bargain-priced sprays. Cost is not nearly as important as the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of the lotion, spray, or cream. The higher the SPF, the better your skin will be protected. The lower the SPF, the more you will tan. You should use at least SPF 15, which will help you get a tan without burning. However, if you are very pale, you should use a higher SPF like 45 or more to ensure you don't get burned.

You should reapply your sunscreen at least every 80 minutes, or sooner if you are sweating or going to be in the water. In fact, if you are sweating or getting wet, you should get a sunscreen that is waterproof so that it will last longer. If you don't use waterproof sunscreen and are in the water or doused in perspiration, you should reapply the sunscreen at least every half hour to protect yourself.

Taking care of your skin after a day of tanning is just as important as taking care of it before or during sun exposure. The rays of the sun can really dry skin out, so you must work to re-hydrate it. Almost any lotion will do, but one with aloe works really well because it both soothes and hydrates. Apply straight aloe, aloe gel, or a lotion with aloe in it for best results.

With proper planning and vigilance, tanning in the sun can be a fun way to get some color on your skin. Just make sure you realize that it takes only minutes to get a sunburn, so make sure you are putting on your sunscreen properly. If you do, you are well on your way to that sunkissed glow that so many want.




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