Summer is here and it is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors. It is also the best time to get and maintain a healthy tan. Careless and negligent tanning or exposure to too much sunlight can have detrimental health consequences, including cancer. To get a healthy tan without burning yourself, here are some tips to keep in mind:
When you go to the beach, bring a good pair of sunglasses and enough sunscreen for several applications throughout the day. Wear a hat and a T-shirt when playing sports outdoors or relaxing.
Before going out, cleanse your skin to remove dirt, dead skin, makeup, deodorant, creams, and perfume. These things make the skin more susceptible to sunburn. Make sure to shower first before tanning.
Wear a good sunscreen with a suitable SPF (sun protection factor) before going out in the sun. This will speed up the tanning process without damaging your skin. Cover all areas of your skin unless you want uneven spots later on. For sensitive skin, choose a hypoallergenic sunscreen product.
Do not go out between noon and three in the afternoon, as the sun is strongest at this time. Be sure to limit your time outdoors, especially when the sun is most visible. Wait two days between tanning sessions to avoid overexposure. Each session should only last 15-20 minutes. The morning sun is better for tanning as it has less harmful radiation.
Be very careful, especially if you have fair skin, which is more susceptible to sun damage. Other high-risk groups include people who burn frequently or tan little, those with many freckles or moles, those under the age of 16, and those with a family history of skin cancer.
