The subject of tanning has been discussed extensively for a long time; as always not everybody agrees that it is a good idea.
What is a tan?
Getting a brown color when sunbathing or getting around our daily activities is a natural protection of the body against the damaging effects of UV rays.
The resulting tan, when obtained gradually, is not only safe, it is essential for good health.
It is a medical certainty that the skin is the best synthesizer of vitamin D, which has a vital role in bone formation and calcium absorption as well as proper coordination of muscles. It has also been determined that vitamin D plays a major part in preventing high blood pressure and cancer, while helping the immune system and improving symptoms of depression.
Why are so many dermatologists against getting a sun tan?
The sad part about human behavior is that very few people understand the benefits of moderation. As a consequence, it is faster and easier for medical doctors to prohibit exposure to sun altogether rather than taking the time to explain the way a tan should be built.
When exposed to sun, the melanin (a brown pigment present in the basal layer of the skin) is being released. The amount of melanin pigment and the speed with which the body releases depends on the ethnicity of a person and is measured by the Fitzpatrick scale going from type 1 to type 6.
- Type 1 is characterized by light blue or light green eyes, naturally reddish hair and skin color. Typical of those with Irish ancestry, this type will burn easily and could blister, but will never tan. Sun exposure should be completely avoided.
- Type 2 will have blue or green eyes, naturally light blond hair, very pale complexion and many freckles. It will get a very light tan and will generally peel after a few days. This type is most frequent in Scandinavian countries. Maximum time exposure recommended: 5-8 minutes.
- Type 3 has intense blue or green eyes, dark blond hair, and a pale skin color with yellowish undertone. Characteristic for Germanic descendants, this type will get a reasonable tan. Safe sun exposure between 10-15 minutes.
- Type 4 has dark brown eyes and hair, their skin is light brown with olive undertone and will get a great tan in a relatively short time. It is the Mediterranean heritage and is considered the most resilient skin. Tanning for 25-30 minute is safe.
- Type 5 will have very dark brown or black eyes, black hair and dark brown skin. This type, mostly of African and Asian descent, will tan quickly and safely.
- Type 6 has black eyes and hair as well as very dark skin. Characteristic of aboriginal people and native Indians, type 6 never burns.
No matter what skin type a person has, it is essential to take it easy and build a tan gradually. The best time to do it is early morning and late afternoon when the sun is not that strong. Avoiding water proximity and the ski slopes is also recommended (because of reflected sun). When it comes to tanning beds, the best advice is stay away!
Much has been said about sunscreen; it is undoubtedly a form of protection, but will also limit the ability of the skin to synthesize vitamin D.
Looking at the health benefits of sun exposure, taking their Fitzpatrick skin type into consideration and, most importantly, using moderation and common sense will enable those who love the sun to make an informed decision as to the length of time they should expose themselves to its rays.
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