June 23, 2010
When it comes to vanity, tanning is a hot button issue. You tan because you want to look good, but after years of UVB/UVA exposure do you actually look good? And how much exposure does it actually take to cause some damage? Who is safe and who is at risk?
At a recent trip to the Vichy tent at Luminato, I learned about skin damage caused by the sun's rays. I went with my friends Kathy(burns immediately), and Layla (who tans easily). We were each photographed by a UV Camera (looks like a Polaroid camera but with two lenses) and as we waited for the results a Vichy consultant told us about the importance of sunscreen. Generally speaking you can choose your SPF in accordance to your skin tone. The lighter you are, the higher the SPF number you should use. The darker your skin, the less sensitive you are to sun exposure. This means you could get away with lower number.
According to our Skin expert at Vichy, you might not be able to see them now, but you will in
10 years from now. After having a good look at my tanning addicted neighbour - I concur}
So how to determine where you fit in? Well, there are six different types of skin:
HIGH RISK (SPF 30 or higher is recommended)
Type 1 - always burns, never tans. Sensitive to sun exposure
MODERATE RISK (SPF 20-30 is recommended)Type 2 - burns easily, tans minimally.
Type 3 - burn moderately, tans gradually to light brown.
Type 4 - minimal burning, always tans well to moderate brown.
Type 5 - rarely burns, always tans profusely to dark.
LOW RISK (SPF 15 is recommended)
Type 6 - never burns but tans darkly. Least sensitive to sun exposure.
So don't make it a question of vanity vs. health. Learn your skin type, learn to take care of it and enjoy the lovely weather :)
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