Chasing the Glow
Let’s face it, there’s something about that sun-kissed glow that makes us feel confident, vibrant, and summer-ready. But while a tan might give you a boost on the outside, it could be causing more harm than you realize underneath the surface. With skin cancer rates continuing to climb and premature aging being a real concern, it's worth understanding how to get that golden look safely, or better yet, without any UV at all.
What Is a Tan, Really?
Tanning is your body’s natural defense mechanism against UV radiation. When your skin senses damage from the sun's rays (or a tanning bed), it produces melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, to try and protect itself. But make no mistake: a tan is a sign of skin damage. That glow is your skin saying, “Ouch.”
There are two main types of UV rays:
UVA penetrates deeply and is responsible for aging and long-term skin damage.
UVB causes sunburn and plays a key role in developing skin cancers.
Both types are harmful—and both are present in tanning beds and natural sunlight.
Tanning Beds vs. Natural Sun
You may think lying under a warm sunlamp is safer than baking outside, but that’s far from the truth.
Tanning beds emit up to 100 times more UVA than the sun, rapidly aging your skin and damaging DNA.
Using tanning beds before age 35 increases your risk of melanoma by 75%, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.
And here’s a myth buster: “Base tans” don’t protect you. They provide an SPF of about 3—nowhere near enough to prevent burning or damage.
Sun-Safe Tanning Tips
If you’re still planning to spend time in the sun, here’s how to do it as safely as possible:
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)—and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.
Limit sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
Cover up with UV-protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
Hydrate! Sun exposure dehydrates the skin, so keep water on hand.
Even with protection, any tanning from the sun still involves UV damage, so the safest glow doesn’t come from the sun at all.
UV-Free Alternatives to Tanning
Want a bronzed look without the baggage? These options give you glow without the DNA damage:
Self-tanning lotions and mousses use DHA (a plant-derived sugar) to darken dead skin cells for a tan-like appearance.
Spray tans give instant, even color—and many salons now offer organic formulas.
Bronzing powders or tinted moisturizers give a short-term boost and are great for events or special occasions.
Pro tip: Exfoliate before applying any self-tanner to avoid patchiness.
A Note on Skin Health & Awareness
Repeated tanning—whether outdoors or in a salon—not only increases your risk of melanoma, but also accelerates signs of aging, like wrinkles, sun spots, and sagging skin. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., but it’s also one of the most preventable.
Make an annual skin check with a dermatologist part of your routine, especially if you’ve had frequent sun exposure or a history of tanning bed use.
The Bottom Line
You don’t have to sacrifice your skin’s health for a summer glow. With high-quality sunless tanning options and mindful sun protection, you can get the look you want—safely. Remember, beauty starts with health, and there’s nothing more radiant than well-cared-for skin.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you have concerns about your skin, sun exposure, or tanning habits, consult with a board-certified dermatologist or healthcare provider.
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