Proper preparation for tanning will not only accelerate it, but also avoid burns and skin irritation. If you want a healthy, slightly sun-kissed complexion in summer, start right away. Then the beautiful, light brown tan will stay on the skin for a long time.
The sun you wait for all year round accelerates skin aging, dries out and causes discoloration. What exactly happens to the skin when exposed to the sun? UV radiation releases more free radicals than usual - oxygen molecules that attack almost all components of the tissues and cause damage to the body. They act on genes found in every cell. Minor damage accumulates and can, over time, lead to a damaged cell becoming cancerous (skin cancer).
UVA rays reach the level of the dermis, causing unfavorable changes in fibroblasts - cells responsible for the production of collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin fibers form a mesh, which is a scaffold for the structure of the epidermis. Thanks to them, the skin is firm, taut and elastic. Fibroblasts also produce natural enzymes that regulate skin regeneration. Under the influence of UV radiation, these enzymes become over-activated, and as a result, too much of them is formed. They begin to destroy collagen fibers, then the skin loses its firmness and deep wrinkles appear. Elastin fibers, on the other hand, deform under the influence of radiation. How to reduce the negative effects of UV rays if you still want to sunbathe?
The diet will prepare the skin for sunbathing
It is worth thinking about a proper diet in advance, preferably approx. 2 months before the holiday. The diet should be rich in antioxidants that protect the skin from the influence of free radicals - when the molecule encounters a free radical, it combines with it, rendering it harmless.
One of the most powerful antioxidants is beta-carotene. Unused by the body, it gradually builds up - first in adipose tissue, then in the epidermis. Its greatest treasury are orange and red fruits and vegetables: carrots, tomatoes, pumpkins, red peppers, apricots, peaches, oranges.
Who is not good for the sun?
People with numerous features of black and dark brown color, especially convex, unevenly colored, should avoid sunbathing. Even with a short exposure, they must use creams with the maximum protection factor. Before the holiday, it is worth showing any suspicious changes to the dermatologist. He will determine which ones should be removed.
People with fair skin, prone to burns, should also avoid the sun. Young people who treat acne are also exposed to the harmful effects of UV radiation. The preparations used in the treatment of this disease - both topical containing retinoids and antibiotics, and oral ones (tetracyclines, isotretinoin) - increase the sensitivity to UV rays.
Sunbathing contraindications
Check that the ingredients of the cream you are using do not contain retinoids (retinoic acid, i.e. tretinoin, retinol, the exception is retinaldehyde) and hydroxyl acids (AHA - e.g. glycolic acid, malic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid , or BHA - salicylic acid). If you have used a cream with one of these ingredients so far, you should give it up before summer. Skin exposed to acids becomes thinner and more delicate, and therefore more susceptible to the harmful effects of sunlight - there is a risk that discoloration will appear.
Also, avoid certain dermatological and cosmetic treatments. Just before the sunny season, do not cut birthmarks (unless your doctor tells you absolutely necessary). Do not go to laser treatments, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, because they irritate the skin, which becomes more sensitive. After them, you need to carefully protect the skin from the sun's rays, which is not always possible.
If you are taking birth control pills, sunbathe in moderation by protecting your skin with a high sunscreen. Combining oral contraception with excessive sun increases the risk of skin discoloration. Photosensitizing reactions can also be triggered by drinking St. John's wort, taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, some antibacterial agents (Metronidazole, Biseptol) and antidepressants.
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Do not feel sorry for your skin with protective creams
In order for creams with filters to fulfill their protective function, they must be used in the right amount: 30 ml on the body, 2.5 ml on the face and neck, and 1.8 ml on the face itself. And yet hardly anyone imposes so much. A 250 ml tube of cream would then suffice for 8 applications on the body, so you would have to take a few packages of the cosmetic for a two-week vacation.
However, it is worth considering such an investment. Frequent and solid application of sunscreen creams not only protects the skin against the harmful effects of solar radiation, but also allows you to obtain a beautiful, even and durable tan. In fact, the purchase of creams pays off.
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Excessive tanning
Excessive tanning accelerates the aging of the skin, promotes discoloration and spider veins. It contributes to the formation of skin cancers, including dangerous melanoma. Too high doses of sun can also cause an allergic reaction, general fatigue, exhaustion, headache. They can also cause fainting.
