The Best Tan Tips

Tanning beds are one way to get a tan.

Tan skin is considered healthy and appealing in American society. Open any magazine and view the images of celebrities with a golden look to their skin. There are myriad ways to get a tan. From tanning outdoors, in a tanning bed or self tanning at home, use the best tan tips to optimize the appearance of the tan.

Sunless Tanning

Sunless tanning is an optimal way to get a tan. Options include getting the tan at a salon, or doing it yourself at home using lotion, foam or spray. One of the best tan tips for sunless tanning is to exfoliate the skin just before using the sunless tanner. Use any type of body or facial scrub. Apply the scrub to a damp washcloth and rub it on the skin in circles. Use the sunless tanner soon after exfoliating for optimal results.

Tanning Bed

If you go the route of tanning in a tanning bed, there are best practices for getting the best tan. If you use a standard tanning bed, and not a stand-up tanning booth, spread out your legs and arms. If they are next to your sides, your arms and legs will not be tanned on the inside. Apply tan accelerator lotions to get tan faster.

Outdoor Tanning

Tanning in the sun is a free option available during certain parts of the year or, in some climates, all year long. Start out by tanning in short bursts, such as 15 minutes on each side. Add five minutes every other day until reaching the optimal tan. If you start to burn, dial back the time or discontinue immediately. To keep the tan in optimal condition, do not shower more than once per day. Wait to shower for at least three to four hours after a suntanning session. When you do shower, use mild, moisturizing soap. Follow-up with a rich moisturizer.

Dangers

For health reasons, sunless tanning is the healthiest option for getting a tan. Using a tanning bed, or tanning outdoors, exposes the skin to harmful UVA and UVB rays. They can lead to melanoma. If you do tan in the sun or tanning beds, do not ever allow the skin to burn. Pay attention to all moles on the body. If any moles begin to change color and shape, see a doctor right away.

References

• Elle: Summer Glow: Best Self-Tanner Tips
• All Tanning Beds: Tips to Tan Evenly on a Tanning Bed
• Fitness Tips for Life: How to Get a Great Suntan
• Skincancer.org: Melanoma