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Natural Tanning Methods for Bodybuilders

Bodybuilders desire a nice tan for competition. The desire for that bronzed look leads some to invest in products and services that provide a sun-free tan, such as spray or wipe-on tanning liquids, or tanning bed services. These quick fixes are an expensive habit compared to virtually free natural tanning. Skincare and tanning lotions, along with sunscreens, cost far less than any sort of sun-free tan. Build up a natural and healthy tan with limited sun exposure.

  1. Start Slowly

    • Start exposure to the sun in late afternoon if beginning to tan. Lighter skin burns more easily than darker skin. Limit sun exposure to 20 minutes per day for the first week. Always wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 on the face and ears when tanning. The skin on these areas is thin compared to the rest of the body and burns more easily.

    Go to Sunny Places

    • Getting a tan is not about just lying in the sun; enjoy yourself. If a deep bronze tan is your desire, frequent sunny places where limited clothing is normally worn, like the beach and pools. Swimming or tanning in one of these places provides more than enough sun exposure to build a dark tan. If tanning in the sun, remember to flip over every 10 minutes. Tanning oils may be applied for extra bronzing if desired.

    Find Reasons to Go Outside

    • To darken your skin without lying in the sun or engaging in recreation, adopt an active outdoor lifestyle. Swap your shirt for tanning oil or sunscreen when doing yard work, gardening or washing the car. If the tan is still just a light base, use an SPF 15 sunscreen to prevent burning while building up your darker base. Run without a shirt on to tan while exercising. Frequent but limited exposure to the sun helps gradually develop a tan. Remember that "little by little" is the best way to build a solid tan.

    Wear Tan-Through Clothing

    • In recent years, clothing and swimsuit manufacturers have developed clothing and swimsuits that are knitted in such a manner as to allow 50 percent of the sun's rays to pass through to the skin. This still creates tan lines, however, but the contrast is 50 percent of normal. To eliminate tan lines when wearing tan-through apparel, apply SPF 6 to 10 sunscreen to exposed skin. Wearing a tan-through shirt when going outside provides extra sun exposure, keeping you dark even when wearing a shirt.

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