How to Get a Sun Tan Outside

A bronzed complexion can make you look and feel great. But there are huge risks associated with tanning. Skin cancer, heat stroke and dehydration are consequences if you spend too much time in the sun without adequate sun protection. Health professionals recommend sunless tanning such as tanning spray as a healthy alternative to exposing yourself to the sun's glare. In moderation and when done sensibly, you can achieve a suntan outdoors. Vitamin D from the sun can provide a sense of well-being. When getting a suntan outside, limit the time you spend exposed to the sun.

Things You'll Need

• Sunscreen
• Wide-brimmed hat
• UV protection sunglasses
• Water

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Instructions

• 1

  Wear sunscreen. While sunscreen will protect your skin from the effects of the sun's rays and will limit the amount of tanning you will do, it is essential. It is much safer to tan over a longer period of time using sunscreen than it is to tan over a short period of time without protection. Start with a high factor sunblock and gradually work your way down as your skin becomes more tanned. Never sunbathe without sunscreen. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends going no lower than a factor 15 cream and applying protection 30 minutes before sun exposure (See References 1).

• 2

  Wear a hat and sunglasses. You don't need to tan the top of your head, so wearing a hat will not affect your tan. But it will protect you from heat stroke. Exposing your head to the heat and glare of the sun is dangerous and can have short- and long-term effects. In the short term you may experience severe sunburn on your scalp and could also develop heat stroke. In the long term, your hair and skin can become damaged.

• 3

  Limit your sun exposure. The Skin Cancer Foundation advises that you punctuate your tanning sessions with rest periods in the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is at its brightest (See References 1). Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause dehydration and heat stroke. Get refuge from the heat and glare whenever your feel too hot.

• 4

  Drink plenty of water. This will not affect the quality of your suntan, but it will help you remain hydrated and safe in the heat.

• 5

  Check your skin. If you notice any patches of sunburn or irritation, cease exposure to the sun. If necessary, put on clothes that protect your skin from the sun. The Mayo Clinic recommends tightly woven materials (See References 2). If you have moles on your skin, monitor them for any change in shape or color. Prolonged sun exposure can have an extremely negative effect on skin health, especially moles.