How to Get More Melanin
Melanin, a pigment produced by skin cells, is responsible for the deep, gorgeous tans that are coveted by many. When exposed to ultraviolet, or UV, radiation, your skin produces melanin to protect itself from damage. According to sunless.com, there are no pills available that actually stimulate melanin production. The Food and Drug Administration states that melanin injections are not FDA approved and may cause adverse side effects. Because they increase the risk of skin cancer, any devices used for sunless tanning are unsafe, according to Futurity. Therefore, the safest way to get more melanin is from exposure to the UV rays found in sunlight. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Apply suntan lotion that features a sun protection factor, or SPF, of 15 or more. Liberally smooth the lotion on all exposed body parts, including your back, face, ears and neck. Let it to soak into your skin. Put on lip balm that also has an SPF. After applying the lotion and lip balm, wait 30 minutes for them to take full effect before going out into the sun.
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Go outside and lie in a lounge chair for a short amount of time. The time will vary according to your skin type. If you burn easily, limit your sun exposure to five minutes at a time. If your skin tans well, 15 minutes of sunlight may work for you.
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Repeat this brief session of sun exposure a few times a week. This will slowly increase your melanin production. Remember, there is no completely safe way to tan; short, protected exposures to sunlight, however, will cause the least amount of skin damage.
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Tips & Warnings
Always apply suntan lotion before going outside.
Overexposure to UV radiation increases the risk of skin cancer, eye damage, immune suppression and premature skin aging.
If you have to be outdoors for an extended amount of time, reapply suntan lotion every hour; sooner if you are in water or perspiring excessively.
References
- Photo Credit Polka Dot/Polka Dot/Getty Images
