Healthy tanning – summer glow without the risk

Is it possible to get a healthy tan? The short answer is no, because there's no such thing as a truly healthy tan. Tanning is actually the skin's defense mechanism to protect itself from further harmful UV rays. However, there are a few tricks to achieving a beautifully natural tan without excessive sun exposure. With proper protection and the right sun products, you can enjoy summer with a radiant complexion and peace of mind.

Why is sun protection important for a healthy tan?

Proper sun protection not only prevents uncomfortable sunburns but also guards against long-term skin damage like premature ageing and skin cancer. To protect yourself effectively, it's essential to have a solid understanding of the UV index, its significance, and the different types of UV rays.

The UV index and its significance

The UV index measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation and helps assess the risk of skin damage, guiding you to take appropriate sun protection measures. A high UV index means the skin can get damaged more quickly. The UV index is standardized worldwide, making it easier to compare levels between different countries. Factors such as geographic latitude, season, and time of day all influence the UV index. The index and the recommended protective measures are as follows:

In Austria and Germany, the UV index averages between 3 and 6 in spring and autumn, but can reach between 6 and 8 in the summer. On particularly sunny days or at higher altitudes, these values can even exceed 8. In winter, the UV index in both countries is generally below 3, except in mountainous regions. It’s important to remember that UV exposure can be higher on snow, water, and beaches due to reflection off bright or shiny surfaces. Additionally, a cloudy sky doesn’t necessarily mean a lower UV index. In fact, UV radiation can be higher on cloudy days because of the reflection of sunlight off the clouds.¹

Difference between UVA and UVB rays

Both UVA and UVB rays are harmful and can damage our skin cells. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and are primarily responsible for skin ageing, while UVB rays, though less penetrating, are more energetic. They cause sunburn and are the main culprit for skin cancer. 

The right sun protection for a healthy tan

Sun protection products delay the onset of sunburn thanks to specific UV filters and can also prevent premature skin ageing. For this, products must protect against both UVA and UVB radiation. UVA protection is specifically marked on sunscreen labels.

Which SPF should I choose?

Choosing the right Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is crucial for effectively protecting the skin from UVA and UVB rays. SPF indicates the level of protection against UVB radiation and shows how much longer you can stay in the sun without getting sunburned compared to no protection at all. The choice of SPF depends on the UV index and your skin type, which affects your natural protection time. There are six different skin types²:

• Skin Type I: very sensitive, fair skin, blue or gray eyes, red to reddish blonde hair, lots of freckles.
• Skin Type II: fair, sensitive skin, blue, gray, green, or brown eyes, blonde to brown hair, many freckles.
• Skin Type III: fair to light brown skin, gray or brown eyes, dark blonde to brown hair, rare freckles.
• Skin Type IV: light brown to olive skin, brown to dark brown eyes, dark brown hair, no freckles.
• Skin Type V: dark brown skin, dark brown eyes, dark brown to black hair, no freckles.
• Skin Type VI: dark brown to black skin, dark brown eyes, black hair, no freckles.

For an average UV index of 6-8 in summer, skin types I to IV should spend a maximum of 5 minutes (skin type I) to 10 minutes (skin type IV) in the sun without protection, according to ÖTK. Assuming a natural protection time of 10 minutes, a person using SPF 30 can theoretically stay outside for 300 minutes (10 minutes x 30) without getting sunburned. We therefore recommend always using a sun product with at least SPF 30, and SPF 50 when near water or in sunny regions.³

Ingredients to avoid

Some ingredients in sunscreens can be harmful to the skin or the environment and should be avoided:

• Oxybenzone
• Octinoxate
• Silicones
• Parabens
• Paraffins
• Mineral oils
• PEG/PPG emulsifiers
• Nanoparticles
• Microplastic

How to apply sunscreen properly

Besides choosing the right SPF, proper application is crucial for optimal skin protection. This means:

• Timely Application: apply sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before sun exposure to ensure full protection.
• Sufficient Amount: to achieve the indicated SPF, about 2 milligrams of sunscreen per square centimeter of skin is needed. For an adult, this equates to approximately four heaped tablespoons of sunscreen for the entire body.
• Regular Reapplication: reapply sunscreen approximately every two hours, especially after swimming or heavy sweating.
  
  

Healthy tanning with the right routine

Before sun exposure, prepare your skin properly. A gentle exfoliation, such as with VINOBLE COSMETICS enzyme scrub, removes dead skin cells and ensures an even tan. 

When sunbathing, start with only a few minutes in the sun to acclimate your skin. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need direct sun exposure to tan, nor does sunscreen prevent tanning. Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays but doesn't stop tanning. The so-called “shade tan” can be just as effective, albeit slower, resulting in a more even and long-lasting tan with less risk of sunburn and skin damage.

After sun exposure, it's vital to hydrate and soothe your skin with a moisturizing lotion. An after-sun lotion is ideal for cooling the skin and providing valuable nutrients, supporting skin regeneration, and helping your tan last longer.

General tips for a healthy tan

• Protection from within: a balanced diet and adequate hydration are essential for healthy skin. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, protect the skin from the inside. Drink at least two liters of water daily to keep your skin hydrated.
• Appropriate clothing and accessories: wear light, breathable clothing and use accessories like hats and sunglasses to shield yourself from direct sunlight. These measures help protect your skin and promote an even tan.
• Sun protection everytime: whether it’s bright sunshine or a cloudy sky, always use sunscreen for optimal protection, regardless of the weather.

 ¹cf. Bundesamt für Strahlenschutz: www.bfs.de/DE/themen/opt/uv/uv-index/einfuehrung/einfuehrung.html

 ²cf. ÖTK: www.oetk.at/news/wetter/uv-index/

¾cf. Bundesamt für Strahlenschutz: www.bfs.de/DE/themen/opt/uv/schutz/sonnencreme/sonnencreme_node.html