How to Tan in the Sun Safely

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, over 90% of nonmelanoma skin cancers are attributed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.¹ This statistic highlights the importance of sun protection and is a powerful reminder of the risks associated with unprotected sun exposure.

In response, we’ve crafted this comprehensive guide to help you achieve a golden glow that enhances your natural beauty while protecting your skin. Here, we’ll provide you with scientifically backed strategies and expert tips on how to get a tan safely. Learn more about prioritizing health and well-being through organic sunless tan products and smart, sun-safe practices.

Understanding the Sun’s Rays

Sunshine provides us warmth and Vitamin D, yet not all sun rays are benign. The sun emits different types of UV rays, each affecting the skin in its own ways.

The Difference Between UVA and UVB

Understanding the difference between UVA vs UVB rays is the first step to effective sun protection and knowing how to tan without burning. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, accelerating aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer. On the other hand, UVB rays primarily cause sunburn and are also closely linked to skin cancer. Therefore, protecting against both types of UV radiation is essential to maintain skin health and prevent sun damage.²

Best Time for Sun Exposure

To enjoy your time outdoors safely, consider the timing of your sun exposure. The sun is most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and while it’s tempting to bask in peak hours, your skin will thank you for choosing early morning or late afternoon sessions. These times offer gentler UV radiation, reducing the risk of harsh sun damage.³

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

Sunscreen is an indispensable component of skincare, as it protects your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Regular sunscreen application helps prevent premature aging, minimizes the risk of sunburn, and significantly reduces the likelihood of developing skin cancer, making it a critical element of your daily health regimen.

How to Pick the Right SPF

Choosing the appropriate SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is key to ensuring your skin is effectively shielded from the sun's intensity. Many wonder, does sunscreen prevent tanning? While sunscreen does block harmful UV rays, it does not completely prevent tanning; it significantly lowers the risk of sun damage and skin cancer.

The ideal SPF for you will vary based on several factors, such as your skin type, the strength of the sun, and your exposure duration. Generally, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended for most people. Such products provide substantial protection by blocking about 97% of UVB rays and also guard against UVA rays, thereby preventing sun damage and enhancing your skin's health.

Choosing Sunscreen for Different Skin Areas

Face Sunscreen

When it comes to protecting your face, select a sunscreen that both defends against UV radiation and suits delicate facial skin. Look for face-specific formulas that are non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and, if possible, fragrance-free to minimize irritation. Sunscreens designed for facial use often contain additional ingredients like antioxidants to help combat environmental damage while hydrating and improving skin texture.

Body Sunscreen

For the rest of your body, a broader range of sunscreen types is suitable, depending on your activity and skin type. Lotions are ideal for dry skin as they are hydrating, while sprays are convenient for quick application, especially on hard-to-reach areas. If you’re planning activities that involve water or excessive sweating, consider water-resistant formulas that maintain protection for 40 to 80 minutes of immersion.

Sunscreen Application Techniques

Effective sunscreen use is an art—proper technique involves applying a smooth, even layer generously across all exposed skin to ensure comprehensive protection.

1. To optimize your sunscreen’s efficacy, begin by choosing a formula that suits your skin type and the specific conditions you’ll be facing.
2. Apply sunscreen to clean, dry skin about 15 to 30 minutes before you go outdoors, giving it enough time to absorb and activate.
3. Make sure to cover all exposed areas, including often-overlooked spots like the tops of your feet, the back of your neck, and your ears.
4. For facial application, use about a nickel-sized dollop to cover the entire face, and don’t forget to extend it to your hairline and around your eyes.

Using these techniques sets a solid foundation for sun protection, enhancing the overall effectiveness of your sunscreen and maintaining skin health during exposure.

How Often to Reapply Sunscreen

Understanding how often to reapply sunscreen is essential for continuous skin protection throughout the day. Reapplying sunscreen every two hours, regardless of the SPF level, is recommended to sustain a robust defense against UV radiation. Additionally, it's vital to reapply immediately after activities like swimming, sweating, or towel drying, which can reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen. This frequent reapplication helps maintain an uninterrupted protective barrier against the sun’s harmful rays, safeguarding your skin from potential damage.

Protective Clothing and Accessories

Incorporating protective clothing and accessories into your sun protection strategy is an effective way to further minimize your exposure to harmful UV rays. These items complement sunscreen by providing an additional layer of defense, reducing your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

• Choose Wide-Brimmed Hats: Opt for hats with a brim of at least three inches to provide ample shade for your face, neck, and ears.
• Select UV-Blocking Sunglasses: Ensure your sunglasses offer 100% UV protection to safeguard your eyes and the delicate skin around them.
• Wear Tightly Woven Fabrics: Choose clothing made from tightly woven fabrics that block out more sunlight than thinner, looser materials.
• Consider UPF Clothing: Invest in garments with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating which indicates how much UV radiation the fabric absorbs.
• Layer Up: Layering can enhance your protection; for example, wearing a UV-protective shirt over a regular shirt can provide additional security.
• Use Sun-Protective Accessories: Don't forget accessories like UV-protective gloves and scarves, especially if you'll be in the sun for extended periods.

By integrating these protective measures into your wardrobe, you can enjoy your time outdoors more safely and comfortably.

Tips for Enjoying the Sun Safely

Understanding how to enjoy the sun safely starts with respecting your skin's health and responding appropriately to environmental conditions. It's important to approach your time in the sun with a priority on skin health.

Tips for Sun Safety

To enjoy your time outdoors without compromising your skin's well-being, consider the following guidelines:

1. Start with Short Intervals: Begin your sun exposure in short durations, such as 10 to 15 minutes, especially if you have fair skin. This helps prevent sunburn and allows your skin to gradually adapt to sun exposure.
2. Choose Your SPF Thoughtfully: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher when spending time in the sun. The type of suncare you use is up to you. Lotion, spray, or even if you’re curious about what tanning oil does, you can find an SPF format that works for your lifestyle and skin.
3. Always Use Sunscreen: No matter the weather, it’s crucial to protect your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Apply it 15 to 30 minutes before going outside, ensuring coverage on all exposed skin.
4. Monitor the Sun’s Intensity: Pay attention to the sun’s intensity and try to spend time outside during safer sun hours, preferably before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m., when the UV rays are less intense.
5. Hydrate and Moisturize: Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using a moisturizer after sun exposure to maintain skin elasticity and hydration.

By following these tips, you can enjoy sunny days while minimizing the risks associated with direct sun exposure.

Alternatives to Sun Tanning

For those seeking to achieve a bronzed look without the risks associated with direct sun exposure, there are several safe and effective alternatives available.

Pros and Cons of Tanning Beds

While tanning beds provide a controlled environment for tanning, they come with significant risks. These devices emit concentrated UV radiation, similar to that of the sun, but at much higher intensities.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the use of tanning beds can significantly increase the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Additionally, repeated exposure can accelerate skin aging, leading to premature wrinkles and leathery skin. Therefore, while tanning beds may offer convenience and quick results, the health risks they pose make them a less advisable option for skin-safe tanning.

The Benefits of Self-Tanning Products

Self-tanning products provide an excellent alternative for achieving a tan without the harmful effects of UV radiation. If you’re curious about how to use self tanner effectively, it involves exfoliating beforehand, applying evenly, and allowing adequate time for the product to develop. These products contain active ingredients like Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that react with the skin’s surface cells to temporarily darken the skin, mimicking the appearance of a suntan.

Benefits of using self-tanning products include:

• Safety: Self-tanners do not expose the skin to harmful UV rays, thereby avoiding the risks of skin damage and cancer associated with UV exposure.
• Suitability for All Skin Types: Whether you have pale skin that burns easily or darker skin tones, self-tanners can be used safely by everyone, providing a uniform and natural-looking tan without the risk of sunburn.
• Controlled and Even Application: These products allow for controlled application, where you can build color gradually and achieve a desired level of tan without streaking or uneven spots.

Choosing self-tanning products over traditional sun tanning or tanning beds allows you to enjoy a healthy, golden glow year-round without compromising your skin’s health.

Aftercare for Self-Tanned Skin

Effective aftercare helps maintain the health of your skin after sunless tanning or time spent in the sun and extends the longevity of your tan. Proper post-tanning care ensures your skin remains hydrated, nourished, and vibrant.

Moisturizing and Hydration

Hydrating your skin after exposure to the sun or a self-tanning product is key to preserving the quality and appearance of your tan. Here’s how you can effectively moisturize and hydrate your skin post-tanning:

1. Use Intensive Moisturizers: After time outside or self tanning, apply a rich moisturizer that can penetrate deep into the skin to replenish lost moisture. Look for products that contain hydrating ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, or Aloe Vera, which provide intense hydration and help to soothe sun-exposed skin.
2. Focus on Hydration: Keep your body hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Hydrating from the inside helps maintain skin elasticity and overall health, which can enhance the appearance of your tan.
3. Avoid Hot Showers: Very hot water can strip your skin of essential oils and moisture. Opt for cooler showers to help retain the skin’s natural hydrating oils.
4. Pat, Don’t Rub: When drying your skin after a bath or shower, gently pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing. Rubbing can remove more moisture from the skin and prematurely exfoliate some of the tanned cells.
5. Apply After-Sun Products: If you’ve been in the sun, consider using an after-sun moisturizer specifically formulated to cool and soothe the skin. These products often contain ingredients like Aloe Vera or Cucumber, which help reduce any potential irritation and calm the skin.
6. Nighttime Care: Apply a heavier, nourishing cream at night to help the skin maintain hydration while you sleep. Night creams often contain key nutrients and vitamins that aid in cellular repair and rejuvenation.

Incorporating these moisturizing and hydration practices into your aftercare routine can help keep your sunless tan looking fresh and radiant for longer. And for those concerned about how to treat sun damaged skin, adopting a regimen that includes both after-sun care and periodic skin evaluations is essential.

The Importance of Safe Tanning Practices

Knowing how to safely enjoy the sun is key to keeping your skin healthy. And by using the right techniques and the right products with sunless tanners, you can achieve a beautiful tan while keeping your skin vibrant and healthy.

At COOLA, we believe true beauty shines brightest when fully protected. We encourage you to explore our range of products designed to make every experience in the sun both safe and memorable.

Sources:

1. "2018 Skin Cancer Awareness Month." Skin Cancer Foundation, Skin Cancer Foundation, 2018, www.skincancer.org/press/2018-skin-cancer-awareness-month/
2. "What Is the Difference Between UVA and UVB Rays?" University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, University of Iowa, www.uihc.org/health-topics/what-difference-between-uva-and-uvb-rays
3. "Sun Strongest." Cancer Code Europe, International Agency for Research on Cancer, www.cancer-code-europe.iarc.fr/index.php/en/ecac-12-ways/sun-uv-exposure-recommendation/77-sun-strongest