How to Tan Using Sunblock

The conventional wisdom about sunblock is that it prevents all sunlight from hitting your skin. Sunblock protects your skin from a majority of UV rays over a short period until the lotion loses its power. It is possible to get a good tan while using sunblock if you use the right amount at the right time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Hunt down a bottle of sunblock lotion at your local pharmacy with broad spectrum protection. Lotions that protect against UVA and UVB rays are able to protect your skin while you achieve a light tan.

2. Apply your sunblock at least 15 minutes before heading out into the sun to get the best tan. You need to rub the lotion on your skin until the sunblock disappears to ensure protection from the sun.

3. Utilize a light layer of self-tanning spray, as well as a session in a tanning bed to build a good base. You can get a light tan through these methods with less time spent out in the sun, while using a smaller amount of sunblock. Place a high SPF sunblock on your skin when using a tanning bed to counter its harsh effects.

4. Take care to keep sunblock away from your eyes and mouth as you prepare to tan. The chemicals in most sunblock lotions have a terrible taste and can sting your eyes.

5. Care properly for your skin in order to make sunblock use effective during tanning. Regular moisturizing and exfoliation will prevent an uneven tan caused by bad skin. A sunblock with moisturizers and skin protecting chemicals, such as Aveeno Sunblock Spray Continuous Protection, Alba Botanica Full Spectrum UVA & UVB Sun Protection or NO-AD Sunblock Lotion is ideal if you have pale skin unaccustomed to direct sunlight.

6. Reapply sunblock throughout the day to get a nice tan without exposing your skin to harsh UV rays. Most sunblock becomes ineffective after 2 hours, so a new layer of lotion every hour during periods of exercise is wise.

7. Keep both sides of your body evenly protected with sunblock to ensure an even tan. Ask a friend to help apply lotion to your back and legs before you lay down. Flip over every 15 minutes in even intervals for good color.

Tips & Warnings

• Lay out for a good tan in the morning and late afternoon to get some color without a ton of sunblock. The peak periods for tanning begin in the late morning and conclude by about 3 p.m. due to the location of the sun. You can use lower SPF sunblock and avoid the heat by tanning during off-peak hours.

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