The warm season begins and with the decrease of the restrictions caused by Covid, we can finally begin to enjoy the well-deserved holidays and, why not, also improve our appearance a little thanks to the tan. But be careful: exposure to sunlight – or worse to UV lamps – if uncontrolled can cause damage to the skin and our body. You risk getting burns or more or less aggressive forms of cancer such as the dreaded tano melanoma. However, this does not mean that you have to give up tanning. Here are some rules to expose yourself to the sun in complete safety. The rules for a perfect tan
The cases of cancer that arise due to unhealthy exposure to the sun are constantly increasing. But by following the rules you will find below you can tan well and safely.
- Do not use sunscreens that have been opened the previous year.
- When exposed to the sun, always use protection. Sunscreen products are usually to be applied half an hour before exposure, and then repeat the operation during the day depending on the protection factor (or SPF). Always reapply sunscreen after bathing in water or showering.
- Do not abuse sunscreen to stay in the sun more time. Sunscreen products are not said to protect more if used in large doses, and scientists believe that excessive absorption can be harmful to health.
- Better to let go of the do-it-yourself sun products. Often the result of popular beliefs can cause serious problems.
- Gradually expose yourself to sunlight. Start with little time, for example half an hour, especially the first few days.
- Do not rush. Haste is the enemy of tanning: the slower it is, the longer it lasts. And burns and rashes are avoided.
- Choose the right hours. You must not expose yourself to the sun in the hours when the UV rays are most intense, for example between 11.00 in the morning and 15.00. Better early in the morning or late afternoon.
- When it’s cloudy it doesn’t mean you can’t get burned or risk irritation. Clouds (but also wind) reduce the perception of heat but ultraviolet rays to some extent always arrive.
- On the beach you go “natural”. Do not use perfumes or deodorants before sun exposure as they can be photosensitizing and stain the skin.
- Those who sweat a lot should know that sweat reduces the effectiveness of sunscreen, so it is necessary to apply them more often.
- When taking medications it is best to consult your doctor before exposing yourself to the sun. There are some medications that make you sensitive to light and possible damage, as well as can cause adverse reactions.
- Pay special attention to the care of children. Toddlers must be kept away from the risk of sunburn which can, over time, increase the risk of skin cancer or melanoma.
- Finally, remember that even the elderly must use more precautions, both with creams with a high protection factor and with the use of hats (especially if you have little hair) and T-shirts.
