Many people enjoy tanning outdoors, especially in the summer. The sun is a great way to relax and enjoy the warmth, as well as giving your body a healthy dose of Vitamin D. It is important to keep in mind that UV radiation exposure can be harmful to your skin. It’s important to pick the right time to tan outdoors to avoid skin damage or skin cancer. This article will give you all the information you need about how to maximize your sun exposure without risk.
Who should tan outdoors?
Anyone who wants to get a golden glow and increase their Vitamin D intake can choose to tan outdoors. Some groups should be extra cautious when tanning.
- People with fair-skinned skin are more susceptible to sunburns. They should take extra precautions such as using sunscreens with a higher SPF.
- Consult your doctor if you have a history of skin disease or cancer.
- When tanning during pregnancy, pregnant women should take care as hormones may make their skin more sensitive to ultraviolet radiation.
What is the best time to tan outside?
It is best to tan outdoors during hours of low sun intensity. The best time for a tan depends on where you live. However, in general, early morning or late afternoon is the ideal time.
- Early morning (7am to 9am): The sun isn’t too hot and the UV index low. This is the perfect time to color your hair without getting sunburned.
- The sun is less intense in the late afternoon (4pm to 6pm) than it was early morning. This allows you to enjoy the sunshine without having to worry about damaging your skin.
When should you avoid tanning outdoors?
It’s important to protect your skin by avoiding tanning during these periods.
- The sun’s strongest rays can cause skin damage, sunburns or even skin cancer.
- Even on cloudy days, you can be exposed to UV radiation. You should wear sunscreen on these days or avoid the sun.
How to Tan Outside Safely?
Follow these precautions to safely tan outside:
- Wear protective clothing. Choose clothes that cover the majority of your body.
- Use sunscreen. Apply sunscreen that has a minimum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30.
- Keep hydrated. Drink lots of water, especially in hot weather.
- Avoid excessive exposure to the sun by taking frequent breaks indoors or in a shaded area.
- Avoid tanning bed: Tanning beds emit UV rays that are more intense than sunlight, increasing the risk of skin cancer.
The pros and cons of tanning outside
Pros:
- Vitamin D production increases
- Boosted mood due to sun exposure
- Healthy glow
Cons:
- Risk of skin cancer, sunburns or other skin conditions
- Early aging due to UV radiation
- Overexposure to sun can cause uneven tanning or patches of skin.
How does tanning outside compare to other forms of tanning?
Outside tanning is the best and most cost-effective method to achieve a tan. It has both advantages and disadvantages compared to other tanning methods.
- Self tanners are a safe and easy way to achieve a tan, without having to expose your skin to ultraviolet radiation. The results are not as natural as a natural tan and the application can be messy.
- Spray tans are a convenient and quick way to achieve a temporary tan, without having to spend time in the sunlight. The results of spray tanning may not last as much as a tan that is achieved naturally, and some people can experience skin irritations or allergies from the chemicals.
- Indoor tanning machines can emit radiation more intense than sunlight. This increases the risk of skin cancer.
FAQs
Can I get a tan in cloudy weather?
Even on cloudy days your skin is still exposed to UV radiation. It is important to use sunscreen or to avoid sunbathing at such times.
How long does it take to get a tan outdoors?
The length of time needed to get a suntan outside depends on a number of factors. These include your skin type and the intensity of sunlight. It can take anywhere between 20 minutes and two hours to tan outside.
Does Sunscreen prevent tanning?
Sunscreen doesn’t prevent tanning, it just reduces the skin’s UV exposure and minimizes sunburns and skin damage.
Can I still get vitamin D if I use sunscreen?
Wearing sunscreen will not stop your body from producing Vitamin D, but it can reduce its production.
Can tanning permanently damage my skin?
Yes, UV radiation can damage your skin permanently, causing premature aging and even skin cancer. It’s important to avoid excessive exposure to sunlight and tan in a safe manner.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO GET A TANNED AFTER 5 PM?
The answer is yes.
You can only tan after 5 pm if you’re a busy mother or work all day. You can still achieve that golden color, even though it won’t happen as quickly as early tanning.
It is also a smart plan for those who are just starting out with sunbathing, and want to gradually build their tan. You will have healthier and more beautiful skin if you don’t go all-out on the first day.
The UV index drops after 5 pm, reducing the chances of getting a sunburn. It is then a bit safer.
IS BETTER TO TANN OUTSIDE IN AFTERNOON OR THE MORNING?
It is better to tan in morning than in afternoon if you have fair, sensitive and pale skin.
Sunbathing in the early morning is safe, as the radiation from the sun has lowered and your body’s DNA repair system is ready.
A study published in Science Daily found that mice exposed to UV radiation first thing in the morning were at a greater risk of cancer.
Researchers have clarified that mice and humans come with “circadian” clocks that run in opposite directions. This means that mice are more vulnerable at night, while humans are better shielded by the sun.
DOES IT REALLY MATTER WHEN THE WEATHER IS HOTTER?
No. Air temperature is irrelevant to how sun rays will affect your skin.
Tannining in temperatures above 100 degrees is extremely harmful and can cause malignant cells. You can also tan or burn during winter.
If you want a tan, use sunscreen even if it’s ten degrees below zero.
