Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Sun tan- high style statement...not any more

Many people want to get that golden glow tanned look. So when the summers arrive people go to tanning booths, stretch out on the sun near the beach or the pool to get a perfect bronzed glow. But before you head towards the pools and the beach bars, here is what you should know before you get your desired look without stressing your skin.

The benefit of sun rays is that vitamin D is produced in the body after exposure to the sun which is very beneficial for the body.

How does the skin get tanned?


Our skin is made up of two layers-the dermis and the epidermis. The sunlight has two components UVA and UVB. The UVA is responsible for penetrating the epidermis and stimulating the cells called melanocytes. These melanocytes are responsible for producing melanin. Infact melanin protects the skin from burning. The UVB is more harmful and can cause sun burns. This UV radiation is responsible to cause a skin cancer called malignant melanoma.

Premature aging, wrinkling and a leathery looking skin is the result of exposure to UV radiation. Overexposure to UVB can lead to another cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. Fair skinned people are at a higher risk of skin cancer than dark skinned people. People with moles and pigmentations should completely avoid sun tanning.

How to be sun smart?

It is always best to avoid the sun in normal routine but if it is unavoidable always wear a sun screen with high efficiency. This can be seen as SPF factor which indicates the potency of the sunscreen. Apply the sunscreen in a thick layer frequently. Apply a sunscreen which is waterproof and sweat proof. If you are heading towards the pool for a swim or you are going for a sport then protection is a must because water and sand have reflect the sunlight to a greater extent. Always wear sun glasses and a hat to protect your skin and eyes. For good skin care and good health, make sure you know the style of tanning bed, the type of tanning lamp and your exposure limitations.

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