6 Sun Tan Tips

Back in the day, we didn’t think about things like skin cancer and alligator skin. We would lay out all afternoon, slicker and oilier than a vat of fried chicken. Sure, we’d burn the first few times, but that was all part of getting the base to a beautiful tan. When I was a teenager and even in my 20’s, people used to make fun of my lily white Irish skin. “Get a tan!” they’d tell me. I tried and sometimes I’d sorta succeed, but I was always so envious of those women who had such deep tans every summer.

Nowadays we like the look of a light tan, but no one wants a deep tan like we had back in the 70’s and 80’s. Instead we’d rather protect our skin and keep it healthy and away from the sun’s harmful rays. Since summer is coming, you might be interested in a few tanning tips.

1. If you really must have a deep tan for whatever reason, consider a spray tan. Sure it looks fake, but it’s better than the alternative.

2. The higher your SPF, the less of a chance you have of tanning. The lower SPF the higher your chance of damaging your skin. Find a happy medium.

3. Consider tanning a little over time. Instead of spending hours laying out at a time, spend 30 minutes or so.

4. If you’ll be in the sun all day, do apply your sun block every 30 minutes or so.

5. The sun is hottest between noon and three, try to avoid exposing unprotected skin during these times.

6. Keep in mind tanning beds hold some of the same risks as if you’re exposing your skin to sunlight. Follow all safety precautions.

Silhouette of Flying Ring-Billed Gull at Sunrise, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Photographic Print
Morris, Arthur
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