Essential Facts About Sun Tan Lotions

By Haywood Hunter


More than one million people in the United States each year are diagnosed with some type of cancer. The latter is associated with the sun and too much exposure to UV rays. Sun tan lotions were formulated to help people keep their skin safe from both sunburns and various skin cancers.

Anyone who is looking for a way to protect himself or herself from the dangerous rays of sun should purchase high-quality sunscreen or sunblock that will ensure that this goal can be reached. It is essential, however, that one understand specific facts prior to making a final selection. The phrase suntan lotion refers to many different products, including sunblock and sunscreen. It can also refer to tanning accelerators that are designed to attract the sun. Some individuals use such products when they desire a deep tan.

Sunscreens absorb UV rays and then release them as heat. They prevent the rays from reaching the innermost dermal layers of one's skin. Sunblock reflects the rays away from the person's body completely to another surface. Both work well, but many experts recommend sunblock, as this will ensure that little or no harmful rays are absorbed by the user's skin.

Most sun tan lotions feature active ingredients called zinc oxide and titanium oxide, with the exception of tanning accelerators. In the case of the latter, the product will probably not contain the ingredients listed above. For this reason, it is important for consumers to carefully read the labels of any formula they are thinking of buying, as this will ensure that they make the most suitable selection.

If a person's goal is to prevent cancer or skin damage, the individual should closely evaluate the SPF of any formula he or she is considering purchasing. This abbreviation refers to the sun protection factor found in the lotion. The bottle will typically display this information on its label in the form of a number, usually from 2 to 60. The most sun protection is offered by products that have the highest SPF.

Additionally, it is essential for customers to understand that some lotions do not block UVA rays. Certain blends only block UVB rays. Although both types can cause skin damage, UVA rays are more dangerous, particularly if long-term exposure to the sun occurs. Individuals who want to avoid as many dangerous rays as possibles should choose a product that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

Sunscreens should be applied about thirty minutes prior to any type of sun exposure. This allows the formula an appropriate amount of time to be absorbed into the person's pores, where it will work effectively to prevent skin damage. The lotion should be used on any parts of one's body that he or she anticipates exposing to the sun. It is also important to reapply the product according to the directions on the label.

Sun tan lotions can be purchased in traditional stores or online. However, as mentioned before, consumers should only select high-quality formulas or they will not achieve the desired results. Regardless of the brand one opts for, it is always wise to exercise wisdom regarding sun exposure.




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