We all wish to get that glowing bronzed look after tanning. Lying under the sun at the beach during those sunny summer days can be really fun.
Also on those cloudy days when the sun is not so bright then, we often use tanning beds to achieve that perfect golden color.
But we often forget about the drawbacks caused by getting tan in a tanning bed or under the sun.
Although experts suggest that tanning does not cause any harm to your skin, being a tanning expert I completely do not agree with the same.
Sometimes my clients ask me whether it is safe to tan twice a day. So, thinking about the long-term consequences I never suggest going for tanning twice a day.
Overexposure to UV rays can be very harmful to your skin and can lead to premature aging.
So, let me share with you some more details on why it is not safe to tan twice a day and what are the consequences of over-exposure to UV rays.
Why Is Tanning Twice Unsafe?
While tanning under the sun or using a tanning bed our skin gets exposed to the harmful UVA and UVB rays. This is very harmful to our skin and can damage the DNA of our skin.
Although most tanning salons do not accept the fact of skin damage even getting tan twice a day, believe me getting tan twice a day can be a disaster in the long run.
Long and Short-Term Consequences of Tanning Twice a Day
There are several consequences of tanning twice a day. Some people want to get that bronzed look very quickly so they go for tanning twice a day.
But let me tell you overexposure to UV rays can cause melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer).
The American Academy of Dermatology Association states that people under the age of 35 are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer.
So, let me make you aware of the long and short-term consequences of getting tan twice a day.
Long Term Consequences
Some long-term consequences of tanning twice a day are premature aging, wrinkly, and leathery skin, damage to skin DNA, precancerous areas of crusty, thick skin (actinic keratosis), and melanoma and eye damage.
Short Term Consequences
Some short-term consequences of tanning twice a day are dry and itchy skin, red sunburned skin, nausea, and painful blisters.
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How to Get a Tan Safely?
Although using tanning beds or sun tanning can help you to get that dark, long-lasting tan but, overexposure to UV rays can burn and damage your skin easily. So, self-tanners are considered to be safer than using tanning beds and tanning in the sun.
There are different self-tanning products available in the market with and without bronzer. You can try out these fake tanners to get that rich, glowing tan without causing much damage to your skin.
Ways to Protect Yourself From Sun Damage
By following the tips below you can protect yourself from sun damage.
- Wear a hat or shoes and covered clothing that will protect you. To protect your eyes from UV rays always wear sunglasses with UV protection.
- If possible avoid using tanning beds and also tanning outdoors.
- Water, snow, and sand reflect the UV rays and can thus, burn your skin.
- During the middle of the day, the sun’s rays are brightest and strongest. So, try to stay indoors during this time.
- Do not forget to apply sunscreen 20 minutes before getting tan. Always use sunscreen with a higher SPF i.e. 30 or more.
Self-tanner Lotion or Spray Tan Which Is Better?
A self-tanner lotion can be a good choice if used properly. It can help you get that bronzed look and also moisturizes your skin.
But you should use a mitt to use a self-tanner as it can leave your hands with orange patches.
There are several good products available online like the body drench instant self-tanner.
You can also buy the Jergens natural glow applicator mitt online to make your application smooth and streak-free. Also Read: Do Not Have a Mitt to Apply Self-tanner? Here’s What to Do
On the other hand, a spray gun is used while spray tanning. The spray guns are filled with a tanning liquid that contains DHA (dihydroxyacetone) to help you achieve that sun-kissed look in no time.
But it is always advisable to get a spray tan done by a professional to get that flawless natural look.
Both self-tanner lotion and spray tan can be a good substitutes for sun tanning and tanning beds.
Final Thought
So, although you are in a hurry to achieve that bronzed look ASAP, getting tan twice a day is not recommended.
Even after taking a lot of protection, you can get leathery skin and premature aging by getting tan twice a day.
A deadly disease like skin cancer can be life-threatening. So, try to avoid getting over-exposure to the UV rays and try fake tanning as much as possible to get that sun-kissed look.
FAQ
Yes, you can re-apply if you notice the color of your tan is not as deep as you want after the first application and shower. You should also reapply a good moisturizer to prevent dryness in areas like hands, knees, feet, and elbows where the skin is tougher and drier.
After your first tanning session, your skin needs some time to develop color completely. So, as recommended by the FDA you need to wait for at least 24 hours to tan again after the first application.
