When the sun comes out, it’s only natural for us to want to peel back the layers that have kept us warm in the winter and bask in the rays that are flooding down from the skies.
While many of know the importance of being safe in the sun but as soon as it gets sunny, our common sense often goes out of the window along with our cardigans and socks.
Yes, the sun gives us a healthy dose of vitamin D and makes us feel good, but Mother Nature has made it strong and if we aren’t careful, getting a tan can actually be dangerous and detrimental to our skin and overall health.
We aren’t going to be total killjoys, but we are going to look at how you can tan the safer way so that you lap up the goodness summer has to offer but you also protect your skin while you’re outside having fun.
It’s all about the screening
Like so many things in today’s consumer rich society, there’s a lot of choice when it comes to creams, but it is really important that you get it right for you. Always look at the labels and check that you are buying a broad-spectrum sunscreen because this is will protect against both UVA and UVB rays. The UVAs cause premature ageing which includes wrinkles and sunspots, and the UVBs can lead to cancer.
When you have found the cream for you, apply around half an hour before you go out in the sun and keep applying during the day. We know creams can be costly, but don’t scrimp when applying, instead make sure you are fully covered (remember ears and toes) and if you go in the water or get really sweaty playing sports and walking around in the heat, apply again.
Go slow
We have all been there. Arriving on holiday, jumping in the pool and then lying on the lounger in the midday sun. You might think this will bring your tan on faster, but what this approach can do is put you at risk of burning, peeling and worse, and you won’t actually speed up the tanning process at all. Building up your tan is all about leaving out those intense sunbathing sessions, so try going in the sun for around 15 to 30 minutes at a time; there is no need to binge on those rays.
Finding a shady spot
Sitting right by the pool or on the sand might be what you think you are meant to do when the sun comes out, but the reality is a little different. You need to consider your skin type, where you are in the world and what time it is (11 am – 3 pm is when you ideally need to stay in the shade) and if you tend to doze off when the temperatures rise, set an alarm and don’t put yourself in danger. As well as sitting under trees or using a parasol, also think about covering up with clothing (you can get UV resistant clothes that might be worth looking at), wearing a hat and also keeping sunglasses on to protect your eyes. It’s totally fine to go out in the sun, swim, play golf and have fun, but head back to the shade when you think things are getting too much.
Water, water, water
You might not know it, but when you are out in the sun not only do you feel thirstier, but your skin does too. The sun can hydrate all of your body, leaving your skin dry and tight, so make sure you drink lots of water during the day, and night, to keep healthy and hydrated.
Fake it
We know this isn’t for everyone, but if you want a glow without putting in the work, or risk, look at the fake tanning options out there. Today it is so easy to build up a natural look without worshipping the elements for even one minute.
Team Pure Beauty
Last updated on 13/08/2019.