Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes the skin to darken in some people, causing a tan. Many people appreciate how a tan makes them look. However, tanning carries risks, so it is important to tan safely when exposing the skin to UV rays.
This article explores the benefits and disadvantages of tanning and ways to minimize the risks.
Is it possible to tan safely?
A common misconception is that a tan indicates good health. While there are some health benefits to being in the sun, prolonged exposure damages the skin. This may increase the risk of premature aging and some health conditions.
The following table lists the benefits and risks of sun exposure:
| Benefits | Risks |
| In moderation, sun exposure can increase vitamin D levels. | Every time a person tans, they damage the DNA in their skin. This increases the chances of developing the skin cancers basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. |
| Many people consider tanned skin to be more aesthetically pleasing. | With too much sun, the skin can age prematurely, leading to wrinkles, lines, loose skin, and brown spots. A tan can also make stretch marks more visible. |
| Studies show that UV exposure can improve a person’s mood. | When people spend leisure time outside, it is easy to misjudge how much sun exposure the skin gets, which can lead to sunburn. |
| StudiesTrusted Source suggest sun exposure can reduce eczema and rhinitis in adolescents. |
People with darker skin are less likelyTrusted Source to get sunburn due to the higher melanin content in their skin, which offers some UV light protection. However, this also means those with darker skin are less able to synthesize vitamin D from sunlight.
How to tan safely outside
As tanning requires sunbathing for extended periods, it always carries some risks, even if people take precautions to minimize them. It is best to limit sun exposure to moderate amounts and wear protective clothing outside.
However, if a person wishes to tan outdoors, they can follow these tips:
- Avoid the sun from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
- Regularly apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30. Re-apply after swimming or sweating, even if the sunscreen is water-resistant.
- Avoid spending excessive time in the sun in one session. It is better to tan in shorter intervals, as a person may not appear burnt until they go inside.
- Wear a hat and sunglasses with 99–100% UVA and UVB protection to protect the scalp and eyes.
- Drink plenty of water and take regular breaks to avoid dehydration and heat exhaustion.
- Seek shade or go indoors if the skin starts to look pink or feel sore. People with darker skin should note that they may not notice any changes in skin color.
It is important to note that not all sun damage occurs when people are directly in the sun. A person should remember:
- Sand, snow, and water all reflect the sun’s rays and increase the chances of sunburn even if people are in the shade.
- UV rays can penetrate clouds, so even if the sky looks dark, sunburn can still occur.
- Trees, umbrellas, and canopies do not offer complete protection. If a person can see their shadow, they may still be exposing themselves to UV light.
Other ways of getting a tan
An alternative way to get a tan is to apply fake tan. These products usuallyTrusted Source contain the compound dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which temporarily stains the skin brown, creating a similar appearance to a natural tan.
Fake tanning may have fewer risks than tanning beds or sunbathing. However, these products are not without drawbacks.
The DHA in fake tan can increase the chances of sunburn if someone becomes exposed to sunlight within 24 hours of application.
Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com
Image Credit: Adobe.Stock – Slava_Vladzimirska
