Key Information On A Sun Tan

By Haywood Hunter


A tan, or sun tan, is used to reference the temporary tanning or darkening of skin. This may be done through many different processes. Some of the methods involve exposure to UV or ultraviolet radiation, via the sun or artificial light used in tanning booths. There are numerous sunless tanning methods that can be used as well.

Generally speaking, this practice is not considered healthy for the skin. This is especially true for processes that involve excessive UV exposure. The casual exposure to this radiation from the direct sun is good in that it provides a natural source of Vitamin D. However, sun bathing or use of artificial lights that give off these rays is not recommended. In fact, this has been linked to serious health problems, including skin cancer.

Some people burn or sun tan with more ease than others. Usually this is relative to the type and color of skin. It can also be dependent on genetics. Those who want to avoid burning might apply sunscreen and similar products to areas of the skin that are exposed to direct sunlight. Others may choose to apply special products, including oils, that accelerate or deepen a sun tan.

People who have pale or light skin often burn rather than sun tan. Those with dark or light intermediate tons are less likely to burn and more likely to sun tan. People who have black, brown or dark skin almost never sunburn. Their skin may darken more from these practices, as it already has a dark tone.

Clothes that are worn during the process can produce sun tan lines, which a lot of people consider unappealing, unfavorable and even embarrassing. The objective is to create a sun tan that is even and goes all over the body. In an effort to achieve this, some people opt to tan nude or with minimal clothes on. Sun tan lines are less of a problem when sunless products are used.

To prevent exposure to UVB and UVA rays, which have been proven harmful, many people choose to do sunless tanning methods. This is particularly popular during times of the year when the sun is out less or not as powerful. Such products are available as creams, lotions, sprays, makeup, gels, pills and more. This technique is thought to be less dangerous than standard sun tan methods, including sun bathing and booths. Still, there are many chemicals that are used in these products.

It does not matter what process is used to obtain a sun tan, the results are always temporary. How long the sun tan lasts is often relative to the method, products used and the person. It is common for tans to fade and disappear as skin peels off and takes on a new layer. Sunless products work in the same way and are do not generally just wash off.

People who are looking to temporarily darken the tone of their skin may choose to sun tan. This can be achieved through various means. Traditional methods, such as booths and sun bathing, required exposure to UVA and UVB rays, which have been proved extremely dangerous to the body. There are also many sunless products on the market that produce similar results. The skin color and type of an individual may influence the overall quality, evenness and duration of a sun tan.




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