Tips for Tanning Safely

Tips for Tanning Safely

There are several reasons why people want a year round tan, and near the top of that list is the beautiful feeling that usually accompanies a glowing tan. Indoor tanning provides a great option for establishing a base tan or keeping a nice even tan. The objective is not to try and get a dark, tropical tan in only one sitting. This is when skin damage and painful sunburns can occur.

Why Get a Tan?

Establishing a base tan not only helps to protect us from harmful sunburns, it is also instrumental in the body’s production of Vitamin D and melanin. Vitamin D has been attributed to the prevention of several diseases including colon cancer, depression, high blood pressure, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), psoriasis and osteoporosis.

Tanning can provide benefits beyond what you’d expect. Tanning is a great option for people who’ve had cosmetic or invasive surgery. Through darkening of the skin the appearance of scars can be diminished as they begin to blend in with the rest of the body color. Tanning also dries oils on the body so those who experience acne may find their skin clearing up after a tanning session or two. Those who have other skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis may find that regular tanning helps to reduce flare-ups of itchy, dry and flaky skin.

Using a tanning bed can not only benefit the body’s appearance on the outside, often people believe that they look slimmer and younger when they are tanned. It can also help to improve a person’s emotional well-being and self-confidence. Feeling beautiful on the outside, can translate into feelings of peace on the inside.

How to Get and Keep Your Tan

For those who want an all over body tan, it is advisable to start slowly. Skin that is not used to prolonged exposure to UV rays can burn within seconds. Begin with a thin cotton towel, before completely exposing yourself. The towel will still let small amounts of the UV light through, letting your skin slowly adjust. Use UV eye protection to insure the health of your eyes.

Just like laying out by the pool or on the beach, you can still get tan lines from not shifting your body periodically. Occasionally moving your arms and legs so each part is equally tanned, will help prevent the embarrassing white crease lines (although you don’t want to move TOO much and cause more unusual spots!). Try a Stand Up tanning booth as standing can give a more even tan.

Indoor tanning means you can control the amount of time you are exposed to UVA light. Not only at each visit but planning the amount of time between visits to ensure you don’t overdo it. Your skin consultant will ensure that the amount of exposure is monitored so that you do not stay beyond an appropriate amount of time to reduce the risk of over exposure. Choose a salon that cleans the tanning beds thoroughly after every use.

Use of a quality tanning lotion with active ingredients can attract the rays by up to 50% more than cheaper lotions. Consider purchasing your lotion from a professional tanning salon to ensure that you’re getting lotion that will be effective.

Applying hydrating or moisturizing lotions every day will not only keep your skin healthy, but it can also help your tan to last longer. As your skin cells dry and fall off, the tan gradually begins to fade. Keeping your skin moisturized can help to prevent skin cells from flaking off as quickly.

Eat sun-friendly foods. Tomatoes and other red and orange fruits and vegetables contain an antioxidant that helps increase lycopene, the skin’s own SPF. These can boost your skin protection by 33%. Green tea contains antioxidants called polyphenols and fish is rich in omega-3 which has anti-inflammatory properties. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids to help protect against sunburn. Caffeine is thought to help reduce your skin cancer risk.

At Bella Tan, your comfort and safety are always our first priority. Our trained professionals are here to answer your questions and ensure that you have a positive tanning experience. Your visit to Bella Tan will leave you looking and feeling fabulous! Book your appointment today.

This guest post provided by Marnie Hughes of Communication Artistry. Marnie is a marketing communications professional specializing in writing and digital marketing for small business.