Tanning Lotion and the Effects of UV Radiation


Defined Tag: Tanning Lotion.

A second cousin to sunscreen, tanning lotions are intended to protect your skin from the most harmful reactions to UV radiation, namely burning, while still allowing you to tan. In reality, lotions can cause burns regardless of the sunscreen element contained within. The bottom line is that everyone's skin is different, and what works for one will not necessarily work for another.

Tanning lotions are used by just about everyone who decides to hit the beach or be out in the sun for an extended period of time. There are some people who question the need for lotions and sunscreens, saying the products really do not do anything to protect the skin. The fact is that using the right kind of tanning product can make a difference in the health of your skin. Here are a couple of examples of the things that a good quality tanning butter or lotion can do for you.

Tanning lotions are meant to allow your skin to naturally absorb what it needs to provide for a relatively safe darkening of the skin, without permitting damage and burning during the process. However, not everyone's skin responds to sunlight in exactly the same manner. This means that you may require stronger protection than the next person. Tanning solutions are made in various types of strengths and are designated with an SPF rating, which can help you select the degree of protection that will be right for your skin. The lower the SPF rating, the less blocking the product will do. Persons with very fair skin will want to begin with a high SPF rated tanning cream or lotion, and as the skin gradually darkens consider switching to a lower SPF blend. The idea is to prevent burning while still allowing the tan to develop over time.

Some tanning products are great for use while you stay on dry land. As an example, if you are working outside, then just about any tanning product will help protect you from the sun. However, if you are in and out of a pool or some body of water, you will need to reapply the product each time you emerge from the water.

For persons heading to the beach or planning to lounge around the pool, it is a good idea to purchase a tanning compound that will not wash off the moment you jump into the water. While these types of lotions will cost more, they will also pay for themselves by keeping you from burning in the hot rays that reflect off the surface of the water. Choosing your tanning lotion with an eye toward how what you plan on doing while outside, plus taking into consideration your skin type, will make all the difference in how effective the product is for you.