 | Amy Nickell
is an Esthetics Educator at Xenon International School of Hair Design. She is also a Graduate of the Esthetics Program at Xenon and is licensed in the state of Kansas as an Esthetician and Instructor. She is a member of the National Cosmetologists Association and Cosmetology Educators of America. Amy enjoys helping the students of Xenon build their careers and loves sharing her passion for the beauty industry with her clients, peers, and future graduates. You can contact Amy Nickell at 943-5516 or via email alnickellesthetics@yahoo.com |
Beauty & Fashion
2004-07-01 09:14:00
Can tanning ever be healthy?
Question: How healthy is tanning for your skin?
ANSWER: As is the case quite often, too much of anything is not good. Overexposure to the sun is harmful to the skin. People whose skin has been overexposed to sunlight during their younger years generally start to show the signs of age between the ages of 38 to 45. People who use sunscreen regularly and avoid overexposure to UV rays show age much later in their lives. Many people feel that a deep tan is a mark of good health, but tanning too much can be harmful and sometimes fatal. UV rays deplete skin of its natural moisture, leading to dehydration and premature wrinkles. People also believe that if they receive "one good burn" they can continue to tan throughout the summer without causing further damage to the skin. The damage to the skin due to the sunburn may go away as soon your skin heals, but later as the skin progresses into the aging process, pigmentation damage becomes more apparent. Freckles are caused by an excess of pigmentation in the skin that becomes darker after overexposure to the sun. To keep freckles from becoming more intense, use a sunscreen regularly. Excessive tanning due to the molecular changes that affect the skin's structure causes some forms of skin cancer. Any abnormalities in the skin should be brought to a doctor or dermatologist's attention as soon as they are discovered.When using sunscreen, pay close attention to the SPF, labeled on the product container. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, which is a rating system that tells how long you can stay out in the sun while using the product without burning. For example, if you are using a sunscreen with a SPF of 2 then you could remain in the sun for two hours without burning. Keep in mind that if you are swimming, exercising, or participating in any vigorous activity, you would need to apply more sunscreen due to perspiration or being in and out of the water. Sunscreens are available in a variety of products with different levels of protection or SPF. Higher levels of SPF are best but do not guarantee that you will avoid sunburn. Remember to read the manufacturer's instructions for proper usage of their product. It is best to apply sunscreen before the use of moisturizers or the application of makeup. Several skin care companies produce moisturizers with sunscreen in the ingredients, ensuring hydration and protection in one easy step.With advances in skin care products constantly evolving; there are many alternatives to help you achieve a golden glow without harming your skin. Self-tanners are available in several forms including sprays, foams, creams and aerosols. These efficient and quick products are very easy to use and inexpensive. To ensure even application and to eliminate streaking, exfoliate the entire body with a body scrub, paying particular attention to rougher areas such as knees, elbows, and feet. Many salons and day spas offer body treatments that include the use of professional exfoliation products and application of self tanners, which is both relaxing and helpful for those who wish to have glowing skin for special occasions such as weddings or vacations.Tanning can be beneficial and healthy for the skin as long as you avoid overexposure, wear sunscreen daily, and develop good habits and skin care routines. Taking care of the skin should start at an early age, because once the skin has been neglected, it is more difficult to improve its appearance or to undo damage that has been done by neglect. Take care of your skin now for your skin to look beautiful for the years to come!
