We all know that spending too much time unprotected in the sun is simply not good for us. We’ve read about the dangerous effects UVA and UVB rays have on our skin. We see the numbers on the bottles of suntan lotion getting higher and higher; 45, 75, 100! If you are like me however that still might not stop you from wanting “just a little color”. What you must remember is that the exposure is cumulative and even just a few minutes can lead to long term damage. Our bodies can repair some of the DNA in our skin cells but not all of it. The unrepaired damage builds up over time and can ultimately lead to skin cancer.
While skin cancer is no question the most serious and commonly known result of too much unprotected sun exposure, UVA and UVB rays can also lead to premature aging. This is what dermatologists sometimes refer to as photoaging. Photoaging is responsible for almost all the visible changes to our skin. It’s the cumulative effect of the sun damage we have been exposed to throughout our entire lives. UV rays cause free radicals to form within the skin which damage the collagen and elastin. These are the structure of the skin that maintain both elasticity and firmness and are responsible for preventing wrinkles and fine lines.
Still Craving that Healthy Glow?
Society has taught us that being tan makes us look healthy. Being pale makes us look un-well and tired and is often referred to as pasty. Who wants to look like paste? Fortunately, self-tanners have come a long way since they were first introduced. Common complaints used to include orange-tinged skin, an uncomfortable texture and that smell! Luckily by the 1990’s experts found ways to correct the formulations. Today Solrae at home self-tanners are the perfect alternative to protect ourselves from the dangers of the sun while still maintaining a beautiful tan. Solrae products are made from all naturally derived ingredients, allow for buildable color and contain no harsh chemicals.
My advice is to make self-tanning part of your year-round skincare routine. You don’t have to save self-tanning for special occasions. People often go for professional self-tanning treatments before weddings, a trip to someplace warm or a bachelorette party. Professional treatments are still a great way to boost color (and fun to go with friends) but if you are happy with the way your skin looks year-round you will be less tempted to want “just a little color” on the first sunny day of the season.
Here’s How!
Incorporate self-tanning into your skincare routine at about the same frequency as a mask or boosting serum which is typically once a week or every other week. It can be applied after your serum and before or combined with your daily moisturizer. If you don’t choose to exfoliate everyday make sure to do so on the day you self-tan – but it isn’t a necessity. Read more in our blog section for tips on how to prep skin and apply at home self-tanner for a year-round healthy glow!