How to Get a (Relatively) Safe Tan

Learn the Lingo

• The first step in becoming a golden god or goddess is to learn some basic terminology.

  Providing a definition of "tanning" isn't as pointless as it seems. A tan occurs when the skin absorbs ultraviolet radiation (or "UV rays"). As a response, the skin produces a substance known as melanin, which darkens the skin's outer layers. Although many believe that a tan makes us appear healthier, it is actually a sign that the skin has been damaged. It's similar to the beginning stages of a burn.

  "UV index" is just a fancy term that refers to the way in which scientists measure how much ultraviolet radiation is hitting the Earth's surface at a given point in the day. UV is an invisible light that is always present, though in varying degrees. There are actually two types of UV rays: UVA and UVB. They're both bad, so make sure your tanning products specify that they guard against both.

  The actual index is measured from 0 to 10+, so if you're considering sunbathing, flip on the Weather Channel or check out a map and see the day's UV index. The higher the number on the index, the greater the amount of exposure you will have to ultraviolet radiation. So you must be careful of the sun on days with a high UV index. If you stay in the sun too long, you will burn and peel.

  SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. All sunscreens are given a number ranging from 4 on up, so you'll have to determine which one is best for you. Most dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15. However, the level of protection a person needs is usually based upon her tanning history. For example, people with pale complexions should shoot for a SPF of 30, while people with darker complexions may need a SPF of as little as 4. To be safe, it's always best to ask a pharmacist which SPF would work best for you. And since most drugstores have pharmacists, you can get this info for free.

  Although most people lump sunscreen and sunblock together, they are actually very different products that are intended for different uses. Sunscreen is a cream or lotion that is SPF-rated. It reacts with the skin to create an invisible barrier against the sun. The strength of the barrier is determined by the SPF number. The lower the number, the less protection. Most sunscreens should be applied 20 minutes before you go outside so they have time to work. Using a sunscreen will not prevent you from tanning, but it will lower your risk of getting burned.

  Sunblock doesn't have an SPF because it protects the body from all UV rays. Usually, sunblock is a thick cream that should contain zinc oxide (the white gunk you sometimes see people put on their noses). Here's where it gets tricky: Some sunscreens with SPF numbers of 15 or higher are erroneously referred to as sunblocks. If you want a sunblock, don't buy a package with an SPF listed, because a true sunblock won't need it.