Some Tips on Sun Tanning

Many people long for a perfectly tanned look. But sun tanning can at the same time lead to many health hazards. Skin cancer is one of the negative aspects of sun tanning. It can also make the skin age prematurely. For those who want to avoid sun tanning here are some simple tips.

• Sun burns are skin damages. They damage the outer layer of the skin which can lead to serious complications later on. So, avoid getting sun burns.


• Apply sun block to protect your skin from the harmful effects of UVA and UVB. Use a block with a SPF or Sun Protection Factor of at least 15, but preferably greater. Put the lotion on about 20 to 30 minutes before going outside so that the skin can absorb it properly. After swimming and toweling off or excessive sweating, reapply the sunscreen. Choose the right sun block for your skin. A person who perspires a lot because of sports related activities should apply a sun block formulated for these activities only whereas the swimmers can use water resistant sun block.


• 10:00AM to 3:00PM is the period of the day when the sun is hottest. So, avoid going out in the sun in this period.


• If your skin is very sensitive get a hypoallergenic sun block for yourself.


• Wear clothes that cover your body properly while spending a great deal of time outdoor. Protect your eyes by wearing dark sunglasses. Wear a hat to protect your face from sun burns.


• Don’t forget your lips. Your lips have skin on them which can get sun burnt or becomes chapped. Both ways it will look ugly. So, use a lip moisturizer with sun protection factor for your lips.


• Chances of getting a sun tan get magnified in water. So, spend as little time as possible in water. Use a sun block each time you dive into the water.


• Extra precaution has to be taken by people with fair skin, moles, and freckles or with history of sun tanning badly. Children under sixteen years of age with family history of skin cancer should avoid sun exposure.

Some precatory words for those who enjoy sun tanning and like the sun tanned look.

• The sun’s ultraviolet rays are the most threatening component of a natural sun tan. So, if you start your skin tanning routine during summer then limit your exposure to sun to 15 minutes initially. Increase the time limit as your skin starts getting adjusted to the heat gradually. Do not stay outside for more than two hours at a time.


• Get a sun protection lotion with SPF less than 15 but more than 7. It will provide required minimum protection to your skin. Moisturize your skin with after sun lotion.


• Those with fair skin are more prone to sun burn than the dark skinned. So, they should avoid sun exposure during the peak hours.


• Remember to wear sunglasses while tanning to protect your eyes from the scorching rays of noon sun.


• Scrub your body with a loofah pad and get rid of the dead skin before applying the tanning lotion. Test it on a small area of your body for adverse reactions before applying the tanning lotion all over your body. Apply the lotion with slow and deliberate strokes to the back of your knees, elbows, ankles and tan lines. Wipe away extra lotion to get an even bronzed look. Wash hands or gloves thoroughly with soap and water after applying sun tanning lotion and wait at least 15 minutes before getting your skin wet.