Is There a Way to Safely Suntan?
June 19, 2024
- There is no safe way to suntan. A tan is a sign of skin damage, increasing the risk of skin aging and skin cancer.
- Use broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen. Daily application can reduce skin aging by 24%.
- Consider sunless tanning products. These provide a safe, damage-free way to achieve a bronzed look.
Is there a way to safely suntan? Nearly half of Americans seem to think so. However, those same individuals also believe that a base tan can prevent sunburn and decrease the risk of skin cancer… two suntan myths debunked by dermatologists and estheticians years ago! Unfortunately, these individuals haven’t seemed to get the memo — and upwards of 60% claim they still tan each summer.
While suntanning might seem like a popular solution to achieve a bronze glow, it’s also a popular cause of those pesky skincare issues you’re likely trying to avoid, from fine lines and wrinkles to pigmentation concerns. Not to mention, most nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSC) and a significant amount of melanomas are linked to continued UV exposure via natural sunlight and indoor tanning.
With your skin health and complexion at stake, is there truly a way to safely suntan? Let’s discuss!
So, Is Suntanning Truly Dangerous?
To properly understand the dangers of suntanning, it’s important to begin with the basic definition of a tan. A tan, either from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or an indoor tanning bed, is a telltale sign of skin damage. When UV radiation comes in contact with the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin), it causes genetic damage to cells that triggers melanin production.
Melanin is the pigment that gives the skin its color. Individuals with fair skin have less melanin, while individuals with deeper skin tones have more melanin. Regardless of skin tone, the skin produces more melanin to protect itself against UV radiation, which results in gradual skin darkening. Though actually a sign of DNA injury in the skin, we refer to this process as suntanning — fun, right? Wrong!
There is no such thing as a ‘safe tan.’ The impacts of suntanning are cumulative and can accelerate the effects of the sun on skin aging. Worst of all, research shows that both outdoor and indoor suntanning can lead to skin cancer. While the actual sun is a major culprit, it takes only one indoor tanning session by the time you’re 35 to increase your risk of life-threatening melanoma by 75%.
Can You Lessen Suntanning Damage?
Now that you know a suntan is a literal sign of skin damage, you might not be as quick to ask if you can lessen the harm of suntanning. After all, the tan itself is the damage! But let’s face it; it can be near impossible to avoid time out in the sun, especially in the summertime. Though you cannot eliminate the threat of sun exposure, you can certainly limit your risk of sun damage.
My solution to limiting sun damage? Shield your skin from both UVA and UVB radiation with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 50! Proper sunscreen is your best defense to slow skin aging caused by the sun. Don’t believe me? Studies show that those who apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily experience an incredible 24% less skin aging!
As an esthetician, it’s also my job to tell you to avoid the sun when its UV rays are at their strongest. I know you can’t avoid the sun entirely, but I advise you to seek shelter from the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Meanwhile, you can consider sunless tanning products for a faux glow! Sunless tanners are a fantastic alternative to achieving a bronze look without all the skin damage.
What Are Esthetician-Approved Alternatives?
The best way to protect your skin against unhealthy (and unwanted) signs of skin damage is to avoid suntanning entirely. However, that’s probably not what you wanted to hear — you or the other 2 million Americans who spend at least four days tanning each summer! Fortunately, I can supply some esthetician-approved alternatives to safeguard your skin this summer. Let’s dive in!
New Dusk to Dawn Self Tanning Drops
Exciting news for those who still crave that sun-kissed look! Introducing CBE Botanicals™ Dusk to Dawn Tanning Drops, a safe and customizable way to get a beautiful tan. These drops are blended with your favorite moisturizer or cream sunscreen, giving you control over the intensity of your tan while keeping your skin protected and hydrated. Simply add a few drops to your daily moisturizer or sunscreen, and watch as your skin gradually develops a natural-looking glow without the harmful effects of UV exposure. It’s the perfect solution for achieving a bronzed look while prioritizing your skin’s health.
SPF to Protect Your Glow
As I mentioned above, a broad-spectrum SPF is your best defense against harmful sun rays that damage the skin at the cellular level and accelerate the signs of skin aging. But did you know that certain sunscreens are also formulated with anti-aging ingredients and other beneficial botanicals that can improve skin health while fighting sun rays? Here are some of my favorites:
- Skin Repair Sun Cushion is a conveniently compact form of a tinted broad-spectrum SPF 50 that repairs and protects the skin with PLLA growth factors, proven safe for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
- Dr. Esthé Sun Protection Mild SPF 50 is another sensitive skin-safe sunscreen with non-tinted, mineral UV protection and Smart Sebum Control (SSC) to help control oily skin and reduce irritation.
- Dr. Esthé Sun Protection Ultra Repair SPF 50 is a creamy, lotion-like sunscreen that provides sun protection with plant stem cells and six regenerative peptides to maintain skin elasticity and enhance moisture.
CBE to Brighten Your Skin
It’s important to remember that glowing skin does not have to mean bronzed skin. While we’re often quick to associate a tan with healthy skin, the truth is that continuous suntanning only threatens skin health. Rather than focusing on how you can darken your skin, focus on creating a healthy glow with skin-brightening ingredients. Consider my go-to products to brighten the complexion:
- CBE Botanicals™ Triple C + Gold Serum combines the antioxidant properties of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and its role in collagen synthesis with the power of gold to brighten, hydrate, and reduce wrinkles.
- CBE Botanicals™ Brighten the Day Serum combines five lightening ingredients, including Daisy Leaf extract, with sodium hyaluronate to help fight free radicals that damage the skin and reduce melanin production.
- CBE Skin Brightening Routine Bundle combines both of the above serums with seven additional products to create the ultimate day and night brightening skincare routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I maintain my tan from the Dusk to Dawn Tanning Drops?
A: To maintain your tan, continue using the drops every few days. Make sure to moisturize daily to keep your skin hydrated, which helps the tan last longer and look more even.
Q: Can tanning beds be safer than sun exposure? No, tanning beds are not safer. In fact, they can be more dangerous. Just one indoor tanning session can increase your risk of developing melanoma by 75%. Both UVA and UVB rays from tanning beds can cause significant skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Q: How often should I reapply sunscreen when outdoors? You should reapply sunscreen every two hours when you are outdoors, and immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Consistent reapplication ensures continuous protection against UV rays, helping to prevent skin damage.
Seek Safer Solutions for Glowing Skin
Suntanning puts both your skin health and your complexion at stake. Remember that a tan is not the way to achieve a healthy glow this summer. Instead, join me in the Christine Byer Beauty Club, where I share personalized skincare support! Access exclusive product savings and the opportunity to win a FREE consultation with me when you sign up for the club today!
originally posted on https://christinebyeresthetics.com/ on June 19th, 2024
