It’s already summer and most of us are craving the perfect tan. Though the idea of tanning initially started as a cosmetic purpose, it gradually sparked the interest of many researchers worldwide.
The “sunshine” vitamin is a hot subject that has generated much attention over the past few decades. Nonetheless, vitamin D has been recognised primarily for its role in bone formation. Growing research points to its involvement with the proper functioning of almost every tissue in our bodies including the lungs, brain, heart, skin and immune system.
Sunlight brings happiness
It increases serotonin levels in the body and makes us happy. Moreover, a study from the British medical journal showed that sunlight is highly beneficial in preventing cardiovascular disease. So tanning is both fun and healthy. And with all these tanning lotions available in the market, it makes the activity extremely easy too! Here are five amazing tips for getting that perfectly tanned body.
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SPF is key
“Sunscreens with SPF 30 or above are essential” claims the Skin Cancer Foundation. Wearing sunscreen will eliminate any of the skin irritation that contributes to tanning. However, it won’t prevent your skin from tanning. Sunscreens will help prevent sunburns, rashes and ageing. This will block the UV rays and will keep you safe.
While opting sunscreen, choose water-resistant ones. Apply some sunscreen 30 minutes before you move out of the house. Make sure you reapply it every 2 hours and immediately after swimming.
2. Protection is a must
The sun’s UV rays can eventually damage sensitive cells near your eyes and may affect vision. A good pair of UV protection eyeglasses is a must. You can also wear a wide hat, to create that beautiful chic look on the beach. The hat adds extra protection to both your eyes and scalp. It is also important to have appropriate protective clothes and accessories when you are out in the heat.
3. Practice skincare
Pre moisturisation of the skin the night before you go out for a tan is essential. Apply moisturiser all over the body for that silky soft skin. Concentrate on the areas of the body that are more prone to get dry. For best results, you can even switch it up by including essential oils and moisturiser.
Your skin reacts to the sun and as a result, your tan. In such a case you need to exfoliate to regularly to get rid of those dead cells. Dead skin cells may block the sun entering the skin and might leave you unevenly tanned. Natural scrub is enough. This won’t remove all that tan.
4. Time is important
If you’re looking to get a quicker tan, then the best time to be outside is when the sun rays are the strongest. Depending on where you live, this time frame will vary slightly. But the sun is generally strongest between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The sun’s rays are the best during midday. The exact time needed to tan may depend upon various factors like skin colour, climate, equator, etc. Most people require only 1 to 2 hours of exposure to attain an initial tan.
5. Go easy
The good news is that you can easily get tanned, without spending a lot of time over the sun with lotions for tanning.
A lotion is a fast and simple way to brighten up, even if you haven’t been out in the heat. Tanning lotions not only offer an excellent tan but also assure that the skin stays moisturised and hydrated despite being covered from the sun. Tanning lotions are specifically formulated to protect the skin from damaging UVA and UVB sun rays.
The main active ingredient in these tanning lotions is dihydroxyacetone, derived from plant sources. It binds to the protein on the top layer of the skin and produces tanning. These lotions nowadays come in various forms with added aloe vera, chocolate, cranberry, mocha etc.
Perfect pointers for the perfect tan
Stay hydrated throughout the process. Replenish with water and fluids (fresh juice) before and during the process. Make sure you walk around, for a perfect tan. This way you can achieve tanning in areas that are hard to expose. If you are not comfortable walking, try flipping your body every 20 minutes. Take a shower immediately after tanning. This will remove all the oils, lotions, creams and dead cells. Don’t be harsh in washing, or you will end up ripping off the tan formed. Consistency is the key. You cannot achieve a perfect tan in one sitting. Overtime, repeated exposures will help.
With tanning lotions and these tips, you can achieve a perfect tanned body.So what are you waiting for!? Go find the perfect body suit, sunglasses and summer hat. Get yourself outside, and get sun kissed!
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