The Best Way to Get a Safe Tan

Every summer, thousands of people hit the beach to get that perfect tan. What they don't know is that tanning without knowledge of the proper safety precautions can be painful and potentially dangerous. But this shouldn't discourage you from your achieving your dream skin tone; proper protection from the sun when tanning can prevent wrinkling, sun spots, moles, and skin cancer.

Things You'll Need

• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Water
• Umbrella

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Instructions

• 1

  Determine the time of day to tan. Avoid tanning between the hours of 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun's exposure is at its peak. Dangerous ultraviolet rays can travel through clouds, so be sure to follow this rule even if it seems cool or cloudy outside.

• 2

  Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before tanning, then reapply every 90 minutes. Purchase sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF). This will block dangerous ultraviolet rays from the sun. However, make sure the SPF is below 30, because this will block both UV rays and tanning. Use the lotion generously and ask another person to help you cover hard to reach areas like your back.

• 3

  Use protective eyewear. Ultraviolet rays can damage the eyes just as well as the skin even if your eyes are closed. Use sunglasses with 100 percent UV protection when tanning. Purchase eyewear specific to tanning if you are afraid of getting tan lines around the eyes.

• 4

  Drink fluids. Being in the sun for long periods of time will dehydrate the body even if you are not engaged in physical activity. Have water or water-based drinks nearby and drink plenty of them. Do not drink alcoholic beverages while tanning, as this will only dehydrate you more.

• 5

  Take a break from the sun by slipping into the shade periodically. Even with an adequate amount of sunscreen, it is possible to get a sunburn if you spend enough time in the sun. Put up an umbrella and sit in the shade for at least 30 minutes. You can take these breaks when you are reapplying your sunscreen.