With summer right around the corner, tanning season is starting its session. However, tanning might be a struggle without a good routine. These tanning tips make creating a summer tanning routine much easier, making sure you get tan in the healthiest way possible.
Finding the Perfect Beach
Finding a beach you like and are comfortable with is key for tanning. Search for beaches near you to find a beach you enjoy going to. Some local beaches in Milford, CT, are Walnut Beach, Gulf Beach, and Anchor Beach.
Maddy Brooks, a sophomore at Foran, loves many of the beaches in Milford. “I like Walnut Beach because you can walk around to shops, like Walnut Creamery.”
Bring a Speaker
Listening to music while tanning is perfect for passing the time. Whether tanning at home, with friends, or at the beach, using a speaker to play your favorite music can really bring that fun summer vibe.
Use a Towel
Wherever you’re tanning, lying down on the ground or sand may be uncomfortable for some. Bringing a towel to lie down on can keep you comfortable while trying to tan. Any towel will help with the job.
Tanning Oil and SPF
Using an SPF of 30+ is recommended for tanning. It’s high enough to keep you protected, but not too high to not get you tan. Using a tanning oil you like on top of your SPF can help darken your skin more.
Sophomore Maddie Deldin shares her favorite tanning oil. “I use Australian Gold because it provides UV protection.”
Drinking Water
Making sure you’re drinking enough water and keeping hydrated is important while tanning. Drinking water keeps your skin moisturized, which can prevent it from becoming dry, flaky, and peeling. Bringing a stainless-steel water bottle can help keep your drink cold in the heat.
UV Index
A UV index of 3-5 is safest for tanning. At this level, UV rays are high enough to promote melanin production and create a tan without increasing your chances of burning. With a UV of 6+, you can tan faster but can also burn much more easily without the proper skin care. Making sure to slowly build up your color is important to figure out what UV works best for you.
According to healthline.com, “The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.”
Change Positions Frequently
To get a tan on both your front and back, switching positions can create an even tan on your skin. The recommended time for switching sides is 20+ minutes on each side. This way, you can build up your tan over time with an even amount of sun on each side.
Pick your Bathing Suit
Tanning in a bathing suit you like and are comfortable with makes tanning a lot more fun. If you do not want tan lines, a strapless bathing suit can help keep you tan without any lines.
