How to achieve a beautiful tan without harming the skin? Rules for safe tanning

In the summer, many people strive to get a beautiful tan, as it gives their skin a fresher and more rested look. Although the dangers of excessive ultraviolet radiation have long been known, some people still make common mistakes and get sunburned. There are conflicting opinions about tanning, but one thing is certain: to avoid risk, tanning should be done wisely. Together with cosmetologist Elena Gretsova we tell you what rules you should follow to get a beautiful skin tone without harming your health.

What you need to know about tanning

Under the influence of sunlight, the body produces the pigment melatonin, thanks to which the skin acquires a darker shade. There are three types of ultraviolet rays. The longest are UVA rays, which are used in tanning beds. They are able to pass through glass and clouds, do not leave burns, but penetrate deep into the skin, can provoke a decrease in immunity and cause an allergic reaction. Shorter UVB rays do not penetrate through clouds and transparent surfaces, but they cause burns and increase the risk of malignant tumor development – melanoma. The shortest UVC-rays cannot penetrate even through the atmosphere and simply do not reach the surface of the Earth.

Ultraviolet radiation can indeed be dangerous, but it also has positive effects. Thus, UV rays contribute to the production of serotonin – the “hormone of happiness”, as well as vitamin D, which is involved in metabolism, hormone metabolism, as well as in the immune system and is necessary for a person to maintain good health.

Elena: In addition to the positive effect of the sun on the synthesis of vitamin D, there is the other side of the coin. It is proven that solar radiation causes premature aging of the skin, which is called photoaging, and it accounts for 70 to 80% of all causes. The skin is affected by ultraviolet A and B rays and infrared rays. They provoke a protective reaction in the cells, which manifests itself in the form of pigmentation and vascular netting. With prolonged exposure to the sun, also affects the temperature factor, resulting in a decrease in the number of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin. And externally it is manifested in the appearance of wrinkles, uneven relief, flaking and decreased tone. Sun-damaged skin looks like a “baked apple”. In addition to aesthetic troubles, excessive ultraviolet radiation is fraught with the development of cancer.

Rules for a beautiful and healthy tan

Sunbathe gradually

On the first day of tanning do not spend more than half an hour in the sun. Day by day, gradually increase the time of stay by 10-15 minutes.

At the same time, says the beautician, the total time spent in the sun should not exceed 1.5-2 hours a day.

Choose the time

The most dangerous hours for sunbathing – from 11 to 16 hours. The safest time for sunbathing is the morning and evening hours. Elena recommends the interval between 8 and 11 am or already after 16 hours.

Do not be afraid of the shadow

Many people mistakenly believe that it is impossible to tan in the shade. In fact, this way the tan will be softer and last longer, and the risk of getting burned is significantly reduced.

Elena: Try to stay more in the shade, use hats with wide margins and sunglasses, if possible lightweight closed clothing.

Use sunscreen

The importance of SPF protection is well known, but some people still neglect it. There are all kinds of sunscreens: creams, sprays, fluids, stick, oils. The numbers 15, 30 or 50 indicate the level of protection – the higher the number, the stronger. Choose a convenient form of the product and do not worry that the sunscreen will not allow the skin to acquire the desired shade. Products with SPF provide safety in the sun, but have no effect on the speed of tanning. Also, don’t forget to renew the product on your skin if it washes off with water.

Elena: In summer it is better to choose products with SPF filters from 30 to 50. You need to use protection even in cloudy weather, as UV light freely passes through clouds. It is recommended to apply the chosen product 30 minutes before going outdoors and to ensure maximum protection add every 2 hours when in the sun.

Take care of your skin after sun exposure

Don’t forget to monitor your water balance and drink enough water to prevent dry skin. Moisturizing creams or body and face milk after sunbathing are great for skin care. They should be applied to clean and dry skin.

Elena: After sunbathing you should not use scrubs and alcohol-containing lotions, as they will make the skin more sensitive. Home care in summer should include cleansing, toning, moisturizing and restoring. It is especially important to use products with antioxidants – vitamin E, C, ferulic acid, resveratrol. They help fight free radicals, which arise as a consequence of active sun exposure.

Important! If you have many moles, you should consult a specialist before sunbathing, warns the doctor.