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How to choose the right tanning cream?

 
, medical expert
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
 
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22 June 2012, 10:11

Even in winter, the opportunity to have a bronze skin tone does not disappear, but there is nothing better than a natural sun tan in the summer. Going to the beach, do not forget about safety measures and suntan cream, which will help you avoid sunburn. Stock up in advance sunscreen.

So, to properly choose a sunblock, you need to know your own skin type. The first type can be attributed to snow-white, often with freckles and a pink tinge. Such skin does not burn, but burns instantly. Therefore, in this case, no cream on the beach can not do. For this type of skin, a cream with the highest degree of protection from the sun, SPF 30, is suitable. Means with the lowest factor of protection will not save from burns.

The second type includes the owners of light skin, sometimes with the presence of freckles, with blonde hair, green or gray eyes. Without a cream, you can stay in the sun for only fifteen minutes without getting sunburn. For the first time it is recommended to use means with the degree of protection SPF 30 or SPF 20, and when you get a small tan - SPF 8 or SPF 10.

The third type includes people with brown eyes and dark-blond or chestnut hair, their skin has a swarthy tinge. Such get a tan chocolate and golden hue. The skin does not burn for thirty minutes in the sun. In the first week of rest on the beach, use a cream with SPF 15 protection, then SPF 8 or SPF 6.

The fourth phototype is dark-eyed and swarthy brunettes. They can fearlessly sunbathe in the sun without any means and, not being afraid to get sunburn, for forty minutes. At the first time rest protect your skin with cream with a degree of protection SPF 10, then - SPF 6.

Means for sunburn are chemical and mineral. Mineral creams contain oils and herbs at their core, and chemical creams contain factory synthetics. Filters are also different, they only reflect ultraviolet rays, while others can prevent radiation into absolutely harmless heat. Therefore, it is recommended to buy a cream with the presence of mineral components, because the chemical can cause skin irritation.

Check the cream for allergenicity, so you can avoid negative consequences. Apply a small amount of a tanning agent to the inside of the elbow or wrist, if an unpleasant burning occurs within an hour, the itch or skin begins to turn red - refuse to buy the cream, it does not suit you.

When choosing a cream, pay attention to its expiration date, since an overdue product can bring much more harm than its absence. If you plan not only to sunbathe, but also to swim, choose a waterproof cream that will be more tolerant to moisture and not so quickly washed away. Useful properties - resistance to sweat and sand.

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