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.



There are two types of rays the skin is exposed to by the sun ultraviolet rays and ultraviolet-B ones. While both will help you tan, the ultraviolet-B rays penetrate deeper into the skin than UVA ones. For this reason, they are the ones that you should be the most concerned about. Without proper precautions like shade and suntan lotion, these rays can penetrate the skin too much, causing sunburns and other damage.

Many people don't realize that the skin isn't the only thing that you must protect from the potentially damaging ultraviolet-B rays. Your eyes can also become damaged by the sun, which is why sunglasses should be worn anytime you go outdoors. Look for sunglasses that specifically tell which type of rays they protect from to ensure you have full protection for your sensitive eyes.



You want to stay outdoors long enough to tan, but not long enough to get burned. If you want to be outside all day, try doing so in shift to help give your skin a break from the rays. Alternate between staying outside and going indoors for a bit, or at least sitting in the shade for awhile. If you do both in succession, you will reduce your risk of getting sunburned and increase your chances of having an even, golden tan.

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.

The key to proper sun exposure is in applying the suntan lotion 20 minutes before going outside. This lets it set in and begin protecting properly. If you are going to be perspiring a lot or in a swimming pool, lake, or the ocean, you should use a moisture-proof sun protecting lotion so it will stay on longer. If you don't have this type, put more of the regular lotion on every half hour or so since it will rinse off faster. If you do use this type, you should still put more regular stuff on at 80 minute intervals or so to prevent burning.

Your regimen after sun exposure is just as important as your pre-sun routine. The rays can really dry out skin, which can lead to uncomfortable itching and even peeling. Apply aloe or a gel or lotion containing aloe onto your body to help rehydrate. This will also soothe skin that may be a little red or burned from being outdoors too long.

If you follow these rules, tanning in the sun will be a safe and fun way to spend part of your day. You should follow these rules, even if you are going to only be outdoors for a short period of time. It only takes a half hour to get burned, so take a few minutes to take the necessary precautions. It will ensure you get that healthy, tanned glow that everyone wants so badly.




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