Beauty Tips for Suntan Lotion
Suntan lotion is a part of many people's beauty routine. It can produce beautiful tans without sunburn, which can cause pain and unsightly color on the skin. Without suntan lotion, skin cancer can also be a possibility. However, it is not enough just to use suntan lotion; you have to use it properly to get the best results. Does this Spark an idea?
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Minimum SPF
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Not all suntan lotions are created equally. While a lotion with an SPF of eight may give some people a golden tan, it may also make others burn. Whatever sunscreen you choose, it should have a minimum SPF of 15. Those with fair skin, sensitive skin or skin prone to burning should use a higher SPF. An SPF of 15 means that the lotion will protect you from burns for 15 times longer than without. The amount of time you can go without lotion before burning varies widely, so the 15 times may not last long if your skin burns quickly in the sun. For example, if you can stay in the sun 5 minutes before burning, then SPF 15 would protect you for 15 times 5 minutes, or 75 minutes.
Don't Forget Problem Areas
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An even tan is achieved by thoroughly coating your entire body in the same amount of suntan lotion. There are some areas that are hard to reach or that may be completely forgotten when it comes time to apply the lotion, including the middle area of your back. To prevent this, ask someone to help you spread lotion evenly over your back to prevent unsightly burns and tan lines. The ears are other areas that often don't get enough lotion. Imagine finding the perfect foundation for your face and it being upstaged by bright red ears. A worse consequence is ear melanoma, one of the most common and severe forms of skin cancer.
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Timing Is Everything
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Applying sunscreen after you move outdoors may be too late to help. Sunscreen takes some time to kick in, so you should always apply suntan lotion at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. If you are going to be out in the sun for a long period of time, you should be careful to reapply as often as the packaging says you should. If you are in the water or playing sports where you sweat a lot, you should also reapply the suntan lotion.
Sunless Tanning
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There are suntan lotions meant to protect you from the sun, but there are also suntan lotions meant to make you look like you've been out in the sun even when you haven't. Sunless tanning lotions are safe alternatives to sunbathing because they carry no risk of sunburn or skin cancer. You do have to be careful, though, because their application can be uneven, streaky and may turn you a different shade than you anticipated. To avoid this, exfoliate before application, apply the lotion to one area at a time with an even layer and always follow the directions on the lotion's packaging. Be sure to wash your hands immediately after application or wear gloves to ensure that your hands don't end up darker than the rest of you.
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References
- Photo Credit Thomas Northcut/Photodisc/Getty Images
