Sunny days make warm sunbathing an extension to our routine. While a great source for vitamin D, lying under the UV light for an extended period of time is a leading cause for premature wrinkles and skin cancer. As a blonde pale girl, trust me, I have had many painful, blistering, and splotchy sunburn horrors. So, I have learned to take many precautions when I go out on high UV days. 

Hydration

Bring your towel, fruit, music, and a cute water bottle! Hydration is the key to feeling fresh, plump skin and preventing dehydration under the rising heat. 

Limited Exposure

Forcing your skin to sit under the rays for hours on end is not the only way to get a tan. It is especially not the way to get a healthy tan. Sitting in the sun for 10 to 15 minutes while turning your body for an even tan is efficient. One of the most important parts for the healthiest possible tan is to make it gradual. 

Sunscreen 

A plausible myth you may have heard is that sunscreen prevents a tan. Sunscreen helps block the UVA rays that reach your skin cells, but sunscreen is still incapable of blocking all UVA rays. This UVA shield is recommended to be broad-spectrum and spf that is 30 and up. I would highly recommend SPF50, especially if you intend to add tanning oil. Always lather it on 15 to 30 minutes before you even leave to go tan, as well. 

Cooling agents

While there are many preventatives for skin damage that you use before even going out, it is crucial to heal your skin after a sunburn. Because who wants scratchy, flaky, and splotchy skin? If you start to burn in the sun, apply aloe vera to cool it down. Afterwards, take a cool shower and apply unscented lotion to prevent your skin from becoming flaky. Lastly, it is recommended to take ibuprofen to reduce inflammation.

Tanning oil

Tanning oils are not a preventive for skin damage. The opposite of preventing skin damage, but used by many. Tanning oils result in quicker tans by attracting the UV rays. If you plan on using one, wear SPF50 and spend less time in the sun. The Bali Body Tanning Oil SPF6 and Carotene are loved by many users, but use with caution!

Routine

Time to picture this, you snag your beach towel and bag overflowing with bottles clanking inside. You spread your towel on the lawn, and you’re glistening with your sunscreen. You have your perfectly curated playlist playing and a timer set for when you flip over your body. You drink your full 24oz bottle of water and chow down on a bowl of fruit. A proficient and enjoyable routine, minus the excessive sun!

Learn more from our resources HERE!

Holland & Barrett, www.hollandandbarrett.com/the-health-hub/natural-beauty/skincare/suncare/seriously-need-know-safer-tanning/?msockid=1975f8e7a27269592a1ced87a3eb68b6

Rostamian, Michelle. “How Bad Is Tanning Oil, Really? Dermatologists Weigh In.” Byrdie, Byrdie, 30 June 2025, www.byrdie.com/is-tanning-oil-bad-for-your-skin-5069534.

Reviewed and Edited by Rebecca Price