If you’re an avid outdoors person, you know how vital a good tan can be for your appearance. Whether you’re hitting the slopes this winter or just looking to get outside more often, a healthy tan can boost your self-esteem and appearance. However, getting that perfect suntan does require some effort on your part. After all, the best way to get a natural tan is by exposing yourself to UV rays. Of course, that also means you must take precautions to avoid overexposure to UV rays and sunburn. If you’ve ever used suntan lotion before, then you probably understand why they call it “sunblock in a Bottle.” These lotions do precisely what their name implies: They protect users from UV rays while allowing them to develop a balanced and healthy tan without burning or discoloring their skin.
Read on as we explore some of the best ways to find suntan lotion that works with your skin type.
What to Look for in Good Suntan Lotion?
While some might think that suntan lotion is one-size-fits-all, in reality, each product is unique. Whether you’re fair-skinned or have dark skin, there are certain qualities you will want to look for when shopping for a suitable suntan lotion. Protection against UV rays: This is the most important feature you’ll want to keep in mind when shopping for suntan lotion. UV rays cause burns, discoloration, and other harmful effects on the skin. The best cream for your skin type will contain a high SPF to protect your skin from UV damage. Moisturization factor: While UV protection is critical to a good suntan lotion, it also moisturizes your skin. While some people can get away with using sunscreen alone, others will need the additional moisturization that comes with a tanning lotion.
Don’t Forget About SPF.
When it comes to suntan lotion, the higher the SPF, the better. While you can find tanning lotions that boast SPF of 15 and 20, you can also find varieties with SPF of 50 or higher. Don’t skimp on SPF simply because you think you don’t need a high level. It would help if you used sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Remember, you are protecting your skin from extreme UV radiation—squint wrinkles. Reduce the risk of diabetes. Prevent skin cancer.
Finding a Tanning Lotion with the Right SPF
Examining your skin type is the best way to determine what SPF suits you. If you have fair or sensitive skin, you’ll want to aim for a tanning lotion with an SPF of at least 30. On the other hand, If you have darker skin, you’ll need only an SPF of 15 to 20. If you want to be extra careful, you can also visit a dermatologist and ask for advice on finding the right SPF for your skin type.
My Family Vacation in Maui
I made it to Maui. It was crazy to entertain two kids under 5 for a six-hour flight. The people that sat in front of us were not impressed. (Sorry.) We were on our way to Maui for my dad’s 70th birthday.
My dad is a character. I keep telling him that he should have his TV show. He always has a point of view when it comes to health. His point of view is a unique mixture of Communist Eastern Europe, farm logic, shock health, and Dr. Oz. This morning, he was letting me know about “the best suntan lotion.”
Since we were in Maui, he had an opinion on the best suntan lotion we should use on our sons. Plus, he had a suntanning transition plan we should use.
He has 70 years of experience, and in his opinion, the best suntan lotion he has used is tank engine oil. Yes, I did say tank engine oil. In 1964, my dad was in the communist army of Yugoslavia, and when they were done fixing the tanks, the young guys would use the lubricating oil for a GM tank engine to tan up.
Yes, imagine Tom Cruise from Top Gun if he was a tank driver, lubing himself up with tank oil before he played a game of volleyball against the Iceman.
If you got a line on “tank engine oil,” let me know.
I know; my dad cracks me up. I will have more stories about him over the next few days.
Finding the Right Shade for You
When buying suntan lotion, you may notice several different shades to choose from. While this may seem a bit confusing initially, these various shades help you find the right product for your skin tone. If you have a light skin tone, you would likely want to choose a “light” or “very light” shade of suntan lotion. Similarly, if you have a darker skin tone, you would like to choose a “dark” or a “very dark” shade of suntan lotion. Different companies use different methods to determine their shade of suntan lotion.
Conclusion
Getting a good suntan is a great way to boost your self-confidence and can even be good for your health! However, it would help if you took precautions to avoid burning or discoloring your skin. To do that, use a quality suntan lotion that provides intense UV protection. For the best results, be sure to choose a tanning lotion that includes Vitamin A and antioxidants such as Vitamin C. All in all, there are tons of great products. And with our advice, you’ll find a quality suntan lotion in no time.
One thing that I was reading about when the kids had a nap was this:
It is a report that highlights the “dirty dozen food.”
Today I worked on avoiding the “dirty dozen.”
You should check out the “dirty dozen” here:
