One of the most frequent misconceptions that we hear from clients is that there is such a thing as a “healthy tan.” This healthy tan is referred to as a base tan, and it’s believed to help protect against sunburn and subsequent damage.
The reality is that there is no such thing as a healthy tan, regardless of whether it comes from natural sunlight or artificial sunlight. Base tans do not protect against sun damage or sunburn, either.
How Our Culture Views Tanning.
The idea that a base tan is a safe tan didn’t come from just anywhere. There is a widespread belief in our culture that tan skin is a sign of health, youth and beauty.
For one, we see celebrities and models being featured in magazines and on TV with a beautiful bronze glow. We hear our friends say, “I want to be tan,” and they do what they can to achieve it. Tans are also associated with vacations, traveling and the great outdoors, all things that make us feel happy and look successful. In other words, people want to be tan.
Well, when people want something, they will come up with every excuse to have it. And so begins the theory for a base tan. Because there is a very slight level of protection (one study showed that a baseline tan from can offer an SPF of 2-3), the idea got carried away and has given many people the wrong impression.
What About Vitamin D? Doesn’t Tanning Help with That?
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that children and adults get Vitamin D from diet and supplements rather than the sun. Scientists believe it’s the safest way to obtain “the sunshine vitamin” rather than putting your skin at risk. UV harms the skin cells’ DNA and put you at risk for sun damage and skin cancer. It’s just not worth the risk.
What If I Prefer a Tan? What Options Do I Have?
If you do prefer tan skin, we recommend using a non-UV self tanner. There are many wonderful, effective products out there such as sunless tanners, bronzers and moisturizers.
Sunless tanners can be applied to the skin following the manufacturer’s directions, as some take a few days to “build” a tan. These products only offer a temporary solution, however, and you must continue to use sunscreen throughout all seasons, winter included.
If you do plan to be outdoors in the NJ sun, make sure you wear sunscreen and apply it diligently. It’s important to be active and enjoy the outdoors, but do not use the sun to tan your skin!