Summer is finally here, and with it comes the eternal dilemma: how to capture that perfect, enviable tan without ending up like a crab on a grill. While many still swear by the old mantra of “first a little burn, then the color,” experts warn that this is a straight path to photodamage, premature wrinkles, and—we’re not exaggerating—long-term skin problems.
No, sunbathing is not just that – it’s not lying under the rays with a cocktail in hand and hoping for a miracle. It’s a carefully planned activity that requires knowledge, protection and a fair amount of common sense. In this article, we’ll reveal, how to get a perfect tan without burning and how to tan safely in an era of strong UV indices and ozone depletion.
SPF: your daily beauty filter against aging and sunburn
Sunscreen It is no longer a thing of the holiday bag, but a part of everyday care. UVA rays, those silent saboteurs of youthful skin, cause accelerated aging, hyperpigmentation and loss of elasticityThey are even worse. UVB rayswho are directly responsible for burns, DNA damage, and increased risk of skin cancer.
For everyday tasks where you are exposed to moderate amounts of sun, it is sufficient SPF 30, but if you're planning a day at the beach or in the mountains, where the sun is even more merciless, choose SPF 50 or higher. And no, a cloudy day is not an excuse – UV rays easily penetrate clouds, glass and even light clothing. So apply sunscreen every morning, even if you're just on your way to the office. And don't forget – protection is no longer a luxury, but a necessity.
Mineral or chemical? Learn the difference and choose the one that will really serve you
Dermatologists agree that there is no universal formula – The best sunscreen is the one you'll be happy to use every day.But the difference between mineral and chemical formulas is still important.
Chemical creams contain active ingredients such as avobenzone and oxybenzone, which absorb UV rays and convert them into heatThey are generally more elegant in terms of texture – light, non-sticky and without visible traces, which is why they are popular with those who don't want a "mask" feeling on their face. They are also great as a makeup base, as they don't leave a white layer.
On the other hand mineral creams, which include zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, physically reflect UV rays from the skin surfaceThey are a great choice for sensitive skin, children and anyone struggling with acne or redness, as they are less irritating and more stable in light. The downside? They can leave a slightly whitish film, which is now much less pronounced than with previous generations of products.
Dermatologists advise: choose the one that suits you suitable in terms of feel, ingredients and occasion of use – as long as it has the appropriate SPF and broad-spectrum protection.
Mistakes that almost everyone makes – and how to fix them
The most common mistake? Applying too little sunscreenYou should use about two finger-sized amounts for your face, and about the size of a small cup for your entire body. But don't let the numbers scare you—it becomes a routine, like brushing your teeth.
Another classic: forgetting about parts of the body that the sun loves to visit – but we simply forget about themThese are the ears, the nape of the neck, the tops of the feet, the backs of the hands. The sun does not discriminate and these areas of skin can also quickly find themselves in the “burn club”.
And then there is restoration – or rather, the lack thereof. SPF is not a tattoo. Every 2 to 3 hours Reapplication is necessary, especially after swimming, toweling or sweating heavily. Otherwise, you will only be protected to a certain extent.
And finally: shelf lifeIf your sunscreen has been dragging around in your bag for the second season and smells strangely “retro”, you should throw it away. Protection decreases over the years, the ingredients oxidize and can even cause irritation.
Burned? Don't dramatize, take action
If you have been caught in the sun and are now glowing like a warning sign, it is important to take immediate action. Cold compresses, gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers, and aloe vera are your first allies. If the pain is more pronounced, you can also help yourself with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as ibuprofen – you will reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
But the best recipe? Prevent burns from occurring in the first place.
Your skin deserves more than just “summer happiness”
A tan that lasts comes slowly, gradually, and with protection. Quick fixes – no cream, greasy oils, and a few hours in direct sunlight – only lead to damage, pigmentation and premature skin agingAnd honestly – who wants to deal with the consequences of July's carelessness every September?
If you really want to glow – without flaky skin, spots and redness – you only need three things: good SPF, regular use and a little common sense. Healthy skin is sexy. Burned? Not exactly.
Do you have a friend who still believes in “first burn, then paint”? Send her this article. Friends don’t let friends end up like sun-baked bread.
