Suntan Lotion Facts

Suntan lotion has come a long way over the years. Whether you are looking for the perfect tan or simply want a protective shield from the sun's damaging rays, there is a suntan lotion for you. Here are some interesting things that may help you choose the right lotion to fit your desired results.

Types

When it comes to sun products, there are names that virtually all have very similar meanings. There's suntan lotion, sunscreen and sunblock. Each sun product has the similar effect of protecting you from burning to some extent.

Function

The lower the SPF in a suntan lotion, the more exposure your skin will have to the ultra-violet rays of the sun. SPF means "Sun Protection Factor." It is the amount of protection from ultra-violet rays that is in suntan lotion.

History

It was not until the late 1970's that there was the recommendation to protect skin from the sun, using a suntan lotion with a higher SPF count. Until then most tanning lotions contained mostly oil, which would cause burning and more skin damage than using nothing at all might.

Making Your Own Suntan Lotion

You can actually make your own suntan lotion, but it won't offer the SPF protection that the types you buy over the counter have in them. You can find a recipe to make your own at : Make Your Own Suntan Lotion. See Resources.

Warnings

Skin cancer, wrinkles and age spots may be some of the things you will experience from too much sun exposure. There is also some concern that suntan lotions may actually cause cancer themselves. This has not been conclusively proven.

Resources

• Make Your Own Suntan Lotion