Is “safe tanning” an oxymoron? Let’s face it, your dermatologist would probably prefer that you slather your skin with SPF-50 sunscreen while wearing a broad-brimmed hat a la Audrey Hepburn.
But you don’t necessarily have to risk your health to get a little color this year. Although it’s important to avoid long periods of exposure to the sun, your body needs light to produce vitamin D, which builds healthy bones and elevates your mood.
With Spring upon us and Summer following close behind, use these tips to protect your skin as you tan:
Get to know (and respect) your skin type.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies skin into six categories based on its tendency to tan or burn. People with Type I skin, for instance, burn easily and rarely tan, while people with Type V skin are naturally dark and rarely burn.
If you are a blonde or redhead with Type I skin that burns or freckles easily, or if you have a family history of skin cancer, use a product with a higher SPF (Sun Protection Factor) and take great care not to overdo your sunbathing sessions.
Choose the right sunscreen for the day’s activities.
If you’re just planning to sunbathe and you want to maximize your color, choose a sunscreen with a lower SPF that will protect you from the sun’s harmful UV rays without blocking the light altogether.
If you’re planning to swim or participate in sports, use a lotion with a higher SPF or a sports sunscreen to keep the product from washing off. Products that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide offer protection against the broadest range of ultraviolet rays.
Apply sunscreen throughout the day
Applying a layer of sunscreen in the morning won’t necessarily protect you all day long. Don’t forget to re-apply the product as needed, especially after physical activity or swimming.
Avoid the sun from noon to 3 p.m.
Your risk of skin damage is greatest between midday and 3 o’clock, when the sun is at its peak. For the safest results, tan in the morning or late afternoon.
Increase your color gradually
To prevent burning, schedule shorter sunbathing sessions over several weeks instead of trying to transform your color in a single weekend. Give yourself a break of one to two days between tanning sessions to allow your skin to recover.
Try self-tanning products
With growing concern over the health risks of extensive sunbathing, sunless tanning products have become more popular and more advanced than ever.
You can buy self-tanning lotions, gels or sprays over the counter, or have these products professionally applied at your favorite salon.
Don’t forget to protect your lips
Your lips can get dry, burned and chapped in the sun, too. Use a moisturizing lip balm with sunscreen to protect this delicate area of your face.
Wear protective hats and clothing
On tanning days, give your skin the occasional break from the sun by covering up for 20 to 30 minutes with a hat, sunglasses and a light t-shirt or swimsuit coverup.
Make the most of your natural skin tone
At some point, we have to accept that we can’t all be Type VI sun goddesses. If you’re fair skinned or freckled, make the most of your beauty by wearing cosmetics and clothing that flatter your skin’s natural hue.
