What is SunTan?
Ultra Violet rays from the sun force the skin to produce more melanin if it remains exposed to the sun for long. This is nature’s way of creating a protective shield for the body from the harmful UV-rays. Melanin is responsible for the pigmenting of the skin. We call the resulting visible darkening a “tan”.
Although a tan is attractive, it actually damages the skin. Hence sunbathing for long is not a very good idea. A safer option is a cosmetic tan.
Getting a Tan Artificially
There are two ways you can do this:
Using Tanning Bed: Although not very highly recommended, using a certified professional tanning bed service can get you the much wanted bronzed look. At a tanning bed, the skin is exposed to high-intensity UV radiation and this has the risk of speeding up your skin’s aging. It can also lead to damaged DNA and put you at risk of developing melanoma. Hence it is very important that you research the place you want to get your tanning done at. Educate yourself about the procedure. Prepare yourself to get the best tan by following necessary tanning bed tips.
Using Tanning Lotions: A relatively less harmful approach is using lotions that create the tanning look on your skin. Since exposure to direct UV-rays is not required, the risks to your skin and health are considerably lower. Depending on the type of lotion you use, the working of the lotion on your skin will be slightly different.
Remember, all of us have different skin types and tones. This is why all of us tan differently when we step out under the same sun. Some of us turn red, others get sunburnt. Very light skin usually never tans naturally while olive skin tones tan very quickly. How tanning lotions work will also depend on the kind of skin you have.
Steps for a Proper Tan
Here are a few tips to enable you to get the tan you desire.
- Cleanse your Skin- To avoid uneven coloring, peeling or flaking of the tan, prepare your skin in advance. Invest in a good scrub and exfoliator. Use moisturizers, serums, probiotics, and sugar crystals to rejuvenate your skin. Maintain a good skincare routine for at least a week before getting your tanning done.
- Wear SPF- Do not forget to wear sunscreen when you step out. Skipping the SPF will only enable the sunrays to break your skin cells. Exposing damaged skin to the artificial tanning procedure is dangerous. So wear sunblock or sunscreen on all exposed body parts when outdoors. Remember a fake tan is not a protection against UV rays.
- Keep Hydrated- Keeping your skin moisturized and your body well-hydrated are two essential must-dos in your after-care routine. A fake tan will peel off easily if you let your skin gets too dry. Healthy skin will add to the bronze glow.
Now that you have all the know-how at your fingertips, go ahead and rock this summer with that gorgeous tan!
