Tanning is one of the most dangerous things your can do to your skin. Get the real information on the detrimental impact tanning has on your skin, health, and even life expectancy.
How Skin Tans
There is no such thing as a healthy tan. A tan is the visible sign of DNA damage to your skin and it’s the body’s defence against UV rays. When you tan, melanin (skin pigment) rises to the surface of the skin. The result is the darkening of your skin’s natural colour.
Sunburns
For many, sun exposure can quickly escalate to sunburn. With excessive exposure, melanin is unable to protect the skin. Reddening of the skin can occur, and even a rash, fever, and blisters.
Premature Aging
- UV exposure can trigger hyperpigmentation
- UV exposure is the primary cause of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging
- UV exposure can cause dry skin
Sun Protection for Today and Beyond
- Be sure to wear SPF protection during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Sit under an umbrella or in the shade when you are outdoors.
- Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 every day.
Broad spectrum filters both UVA rays that lead to the signs of aging and UVB rays that cause sunburn.
