How To Tan Without Burning - Top 10 Tips
Most of us want to have a nice bronze tan, but no one wants to experience the painful and damaging effects of sunburn. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the warm summer days at all - there are still ways to get that beautiful tan without ending up with sunburn. Here are the top 10 tips for how to tan without burning!
Find the Right Tanning Lotion
The first step in achieving a perfect tan is choosing an appropriate lotion for your skin type – this will help prevent burning during your tanning session. If you have sensitive skin or fair complexion, opt for lotions with SPF protection so you can gradually build up your tolerance and avoid over-exposure. For darker skin tones, you can use tanning lotions without SPF to get a deeper colour.
Apply Lotion Correctly
To make sure the tanning lotion is evenly distributed and maximum results are achieved, apply it in long smooth strokes with your hands or an applicator mitt. Remember to use only a small amount of lotion - too much product will not give you a better result, but can cause streaking instead. Pay special attention to areas that don’t tend to tan as easily such as knees and elbows.
Stay Hydrated
The sun’s rays can quickly dehydrate your body while tanning outdoors, so it’s important to keep your body hydrated at all times. Make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after tanning to prevent heat exhaustion and other health issues.
Apply Sunscreen
Even when using a tanning lotion with SPF protection, it’s still important to apply additional sunscreen for added protection from UVA and UVB rays. If you want to extend the time spent in direct sunlight, use a higher SPF sunscreen or seek shade whenever possible. Remember that even if you are using a high-quality sunblock it doesn’t mean that you can stay out in the sun indefinitely - overexposure is always dangerous!
Don't Overtan
If you’re looking to achieve a long-lasting tan, it’s important to limit your time in the sun and avoid over-tanning. Start with short 20-minute sessions and gradually increase them as your skin gets used to the UV rays. This will help you build up melanin production which is essential for achieving a golden bronze colour without burning.
Wash Your Hands Before and After Application
It's important to keep your hands clean before applying any product on your body - this will prevent bacteria from being transferred onto your skin. Washing hands again after application is also recommended so you don't end up transferring lotion to furniture or clothes.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
When lying out in the sun, it's important to wear breathable, lightweight clothing that covers your body completely. This will protect you from the sun's rays and help reduce the chances of burning or blisters developing on your skin. Additionally, special tanning suits made of specific fabrics can absorb UV rays more efficiently which results in a deeper color but are not recommended for people with sensitive skin.
Tan in the Shade
If you wish to avoid direct sunlight altogether, opt for a spot under a nearby tree or umbrella. Sun reflecting off pools and other surfaces can intensify UV exposure and contribute to higher risks of sunburn, so it’s best to stay away from them when possible.
Stay Cool
When spending time outdoors during hot summer days, it’s important to stay cool and avoid over-heating. Sunburn can occur more quickly when your body temperature rises, so take breaks in the shade or pool whenever possible.
Wear Sunglasses
Finally, don't forget about protection for your eyes! UV rays can cause irreparable damage to your vision, so make sure you wear sunglasses that filter out at least 99% of UVA and UVB rays.
Does Sunscreen Prevent Tanning? - Can You Tan with Sunscreen?
One of the most common questions among sun enthusiasts is whether sunscreen can prevent tanning altogether. The short answer is that sunscreen does indeed block some of the sun's rays, including the ultraviolet radiation responsible for tanning. Sunscreen acts as a barrier, reflecting and absorbing harmful UV rays, which can reduce the skin's exposure to them and thereby limit the tanning process.
While sunscreen can offer protection against the damaging effects of the sun, it does not entirely eliminate the possibility of tanning. Sunscreens with higher SPF values provide stronger protection against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburns, but they may not block UVA rays as effectively. UVA rays can still penetrate the skin even with sunscreen application, contributing to tanning. Therefore, wearing sunscreen can help reduce the intensity of the tan, but it does not entirely prevent it. There are also sunscreen products available made specifically for tanning:
Tips for effective tanning with sunscreen applied:
Choose the Right SPF: Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. This will provide protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or excessive sweating.
Gradual Exposure: Start with short periods of sun exposure, particularly during the morning or late afternoon when the sun's rays are less intense. Over time, gradually increase your exposure to build a tan while minimizing the risk of sunburn.
Hydrate and Moisturize: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as it helps maintain the skin's moisture levels. Apply a moisturizer or after-sun lotion to keep your skin hydrated, promoting an even and longer-lasting tan.
Seek Shade: While getting some sun exposure is essential for tanning, it's equally important to seek shade when the sun is at its peak (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). This reduces the risk of sunburn and overexposure.
Protective Clothing: Wear loose, lightweight clothing that covers your skin to minimize direct sun exposure. Broad-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing can provide additional shielding from the sun's harmful rays.
5 Signs that you are getting burnt
Are you concerned that you may be getting sunburned? Sunburns can damage the skin and increase your risk of developing skin cancer. It is important to take measures to protect yourself from the sun’s UV rays, especially during peak hours. Knowing the signs of sunburn can help you to avoid further exposure and seek treatment if necessary.
Your Skin Turns Red
One of the most obvious signs of sunburn is redness or discoloration on the affected area. This could be anywhere on the body that has been exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period without protection. Areas such as arms, face, neck, back, and legs are especially vulnerable since they are normally more exposed.
Skin Pain and Discomfort
The redness associated with sunburn will often be accompanied by pain and discomfort on the affected area of skin. This can vary depending on the level of exposure but may include a burning sensation, itchy feeling, or tightness in the skin. For some people, even light pressure may cause pain due to the sensitivity that comes with sunburns.
Blistering
In more severe cases of sunburn, blistering is common symptom as well as redness and pain. These blisters are primarily caused by damage to the deeper layers of skin from UV radiation. The formation of blisters is an indication that you should seek medical attention if they become bothersome.
Headache
In addition to skin irritation, sunburn can also have a negative effect on your overall health and wellbeing. One of the most common side effects is a headache due to dehydration. When you get too much sun exposure, your body will sweat more in order to cool itself down, which can lead to fluid loss and fatigue. Drinking plenty of fluids is important for restoring balance and alleviating this symptom.
Dehydration and Fatigue
Dehydration is one of the main causes of sunburn-related fatigue. Again, this happens when too much water is lost from sweating that it affects your energy levels and makes you feel weak or lethargic. It is important to drink plenty of water and electrolyte-rich sports drinks in order to replenish the fluids lost from sun exposure.
Top 10 Products for Tanning
Tanning is a great way to get that beautiful, bronzed look without having to spend hours in the sun unprotected. But it's important to use the right products, as well as tan safely, to achieve your desired results. Here are our top 10 picks of the best products available on Amazon.com for tanning – plus advice on how to get a safe and healthy glow!
This lightweight lotion glides onto skin effortlessly and gives an even, natural-looking color with no streaks or fading. It also contains nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E to keep skin hydrated and smooth.
This revolutionary sunless tanner uses a combination of naturally derived ingredients and proprietary complexes to give you a beautiful, natural-looking glow without the harmful UV rays from the sun.
An easy-to-apply mousse that gives you an instant bronze color that lasts up to 10 days. It also has hydrating properties to keep your skin looking soft and smooth.
This self-tanning liquid provides long-lasting, streak-free results with no unpleasant odors or orange undertones. The added antioxidants help prevent premature aging while adding a lovely golden hue to your skin.
This sunless tanner allows you to build up a natural-looking color with each application, so you can get the perfect shade of bronze in just a few days. It also contains antioxidants and vitamin E to keep skin hydrated and healthy.
An easy way to give your skin an all-over glow without having to use multiple products or wait for results – simply apply this moisturizer daily for up to 7 days for a beautiful golden tone.
This quick-drying lotion gives skin a beautiful, natural-looking glow without the use of UV-rays. It also contains aloe vera and vitamin E to keep skin hydrated and healthy.
This sunscreen offers protection from both UVA and UVB rays while giving you an instant tanning boost with its bronzing gel formula. The added antioxidants help protect against skin damage as well.
These convenient self-tanning towelettes are perfect for those on the go! They provide an even, streak-free coverage that lasts up to 7 days with no unpleasant odor or orange undertones.
If you're looking for a quick fix to hide blemishes or even out skin tones, this body makeup is the perfect choice. It's long-lasting, smudge-resistant coverage infused with hydrating vitamin E helps keep your skin soft and moisturized.
Safe Tanning Advice
Getting that beautiful bronze glow doesn't have to mean putting your skin at risk – here are some tips for safe tanning:
• Wear sunscreen every time you go outside, even if it's cloudy or overcast. Sunscreen should be applied 15 minutes before going outdoors and re-applied every 2 hours when in direct sunlight.
• Don't forget to cover up! Hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts are a great way to protect your skin from the sun's damaging UV rays.
• Avoid tanning beds and booths – they emit more intense UV radiation than natural sunlight and can be extremely dangerous if used too often.
• Make sure to exfoliate before you apply any self-tanning product. This will help ensure an even distribution of color without streaks or patchiness.
• Don't forget to moisturize! Moisturizing your skin after each tanning session will keep it hydrated and looking its best.
Benefits of using tanning lotions
1. Quick Results
Tanning products are a great way to quickly achieve the golden glow you desire. Whether you’re looking for a light tan or an all-over bronzed look, there is something out there specifically designed to meet your needs. With just one application, you can get an even and natural-looking tan that will last until your next session.
2. Streak Free Tan
As opposed to layering on self-tanner or dealing with the orange streaks that can come from spray tans, using a professional salon product will give you an even finish without having to worry about any harsh lines or splotches of color. You won’t have to worry about spending extra time to blend it in, either—the final results will be smooth and natural looking.
3. Safety & Quality
Using tanning products from a good quality salon means that you are getting the best of what’s available for safe tanning practices. Salons can offer professional-grade products that are specially formulated for maximum safety and effectiveness. They also have the expertise to help you determine which product is right for your skin type and provide advice on how to use it properly.
4. Hydration & Nourishment
Good quality tanning products not only give you an even, golden glow but they also nourish and hydrate your skin at the same time. With ingredients like aloe vera and other natural oils, you can trust that your skin will be left feeling soft and looking its best.
5. Customization
Using a tanning product from a salon gives you the ability to customize the perfect shade for your skin tone. Your tanning professional can help you determine what shade would look best on you and mix it up using multiple shades or even add additional ingredients like bronzer or shimmer to achieve your desired result. This ensures that you get the exact color that works best with your complexion.
How to Tan Fast: The Risks and Alternatives
While the desire for a fast tan is understandable, it's important to note that excessive sun exposure or the use of tanning beds can pose significant risks to your skin's health. These practices can accelerate skin aging, increase the risk of skin cancer, and cause sunburn. Instead of resorting to potentially harmful methods, consider safer alternatives such as self-tanning lotions, sprays, or bronzers, which can provide an instant tan without the risks associated with excessive sun exposure.
Final thoughts
Follow the aforementioned tips and you will be on your way to the perfect tan. Be sure to exfoliate before applying any tanner, this will help the product go on evenly and prevent streaks. It is also important to choose a quality tanning product that suits your skin type. Apply the tanner with a clean sponge or mitt in long strokes and be sure to wash your hands after application. Allow the product time to dry completely before dressing and avoid getting wet or sweating for at least six hours afterwards. With proper preparation and care, you can achieve a beautiful, natural-looking tan without risking any damage to your skin.