Although you might not think it, the pool itself can present some hazards to safe tanning, so hereís how to tan safely when using your swimming pool.
Prepare Your Skin
Before you even step outside, make sure your skin is ready for tanning. Gently scrub your body to remove any dry or dead skin, and apply a moisturizer to your knees, elbows, and your feet.
This helps your tan to be more even which improves your overall appearance.
Use an appropriate SPF sunscreen
SPF is an abbreviation for ìsun protection factorî and indicates how much of the sunís UV rays are blocked by the sunscreen ñ the higher the number, the more blocking occurs.
An SPF of 15-20 is the normal recommendation for tanning, however this may vary depending on your skin type. You should never attempt to get a tan without using sunscreen or by substituting another substance.
At one time it was popular to put oil on your skin to try and accelerate your tan ñ all this will do is fry your skin. Donít do it!
Make sure your sunscreen is waterproof
As youíre going to be around the pool, chances are youíll either get splashed or take a dip. If your sunscreen isnít waterproof, it will wash off easily and the protection will be gone.
Even if it is waterproof, make sure to reapply it regularly to make sure you are safe.
Tan little and often
Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause damage to your skin even if you are wearing sunscreen. Take regular breaks and if you feel like you are burning, youíve already been out too long. Itís best to avoid direct sunlight and sit in the shade whenever you can.
Stay hydrated
Tanning by its nature requires exposure to heat which will cause your body to sweat. This removes valuable fluids from your body that need to be replace. Drink plenty of water to stay properly hydrated whilst you are building up your tan.
Prolonged exposure to the sun along with dehydration can lead to conditions like sunstroke, which can be fatal.
Always take care when tanning, whether you are near a pool or not, and always take the proper precautions to stay safe and healthy.