Keep safe whilst tanning
People may argue that, much as in Victorian times, having white or pale skin is fashionable. I don’t believe it – nearly everyone you meet loves to have a good sun tan – it looks good and it makes them feel good. The trouble is it’s not good to lie around in the sun, at least not without protection. UV rays can be dangerous and their links with skin cancers are now beyond doubt. You need to keep safe whilst tanning..
If you’re going to sun bathe then a good sunscreen is the most obvious protector against sun damage. Whereas a factor 5 used to be considered quite high, now scientists recommend a minimum of 8 to 15 but preferably factor 30. This will obviously slow the tanning process down but is much safer than getting burnt. A slowly developed tan will not only be safer but a better, longer lasting tan.
When you first arrive in a sunny climate, take your time – there’s no point burning on the first day of your holiday – some people argue that a visit to a salon for sun bed treatment before going could be beneficial, but again others argue that they’re dangerous.
After you see a tan begin to develop you can stay out a bit longer – but don’t reduce your sunscreen factor too soon. As Noel Coward said ‘Only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun..’ and he wasn’t wrong its worth avoiding the highest temperatures between 11am and 1pm when the UV is at its most dangerous.
Over exposure to UV and sun bathing can cause your skin to age – to help with this keep it moisturised – before and particularly after your tanning session. The frequent application of a good moisturiser will help your tan last that little bit longer.
If you’re still not happy with traditional sun bathing then why not try one of the latest fake tanning products such as the Luminess Tan system – read my review here.
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