How does sun tan your skin

They are the most common pre-malignant skin condition, occurring in more than 5 million Americans each year. Actinic or solar keratoses share some of the symptoms of skin cancer. Look for raised, rough-textured, or scaly bumps that occur in areas that have been sunburned or tanned.

Actinic or solar keratoses are the most common pre-malignant skin condition. Check with your doctor if you find any suspicious-looking bumps. Photokeratitis can be thought of as a sunburn of the cornea.

Treatment: Consult your doctor if you have any of these symptoms. Your doctor can prescribe a topical solution which will aid your cornea in healing. Since the cornea usually heals in 24 to 48 hours, the symptoms are not long-lasting. What it is: Cataracts are one form of eye damage that research has shown may increase with UV exposure.

Clouding of the natural lens of the eye causing decreased vision and possible blindness are all effects of cataracts. Other types of eye damage include cancer around the eyes, macular degeneration , and irregular tissue growth that can block vision pterygium. According to the World Health Organization WHO , all people, regardless of skin color, are vulnerable to the effects of immune suppression. In people who have been treated for an infection of the Herpes simplex virus, sun exposure can weaken the immune system so that it can no longer keep the virus under control.

This results in reactivation of the infection and recurring cold sores. More information about Immune System Suppression. Why it happens: When UV rays reach your skin, they damage cells in the epidermis. Symptoms: The earliest signs of sunburn are skin that looks flushed, is tender or painful, or gives off more heat than normal. Treatment: The American Academy of Dermatology AAD recommends treating mild sunburn with cool baths, over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams, and aspirin to ease pain and swelling.

Sun Tan What it is: There is no such thing as a safe tan. Why it happens: Once skin is exposed to UV radiation, it increases the production of melanin in an attempt to protect the skin from further damage. Symptoms: Skin tones that are capable of developing a tan, typically skin types II through V, will probably darken in tone within two days. Check your skin regularly for suspicious growths or other skin changes.

Early detection and treatment are key in the successful treatment of skin cancer. Updated by: David C. Editorial team. Sun's effect on skin. One of the primary ways our bodies obtain vitamin D is through absorption from sun exposure. You may think of dietary sources, but this is hard with the average diet.

The recommended daily allowance for Vitamin D is IU. A glass of milk contains around IUs. Supplements are available as well. In contrast, spending 10 to 15 minutes in the sun without sunscreen on a summer day in light clothing may result in the absorption of 5, IU's. Since the majority of Americans have lower than recommended vitamin D levels, many of the dermatology organizations are now reconsidering their previous sunscreen recommendations to perhaps include a short period of time in the sun before application of sunscreen.

If you are worried about your teen, a simple blood test can determine where her level is at, and your pediatrician can help you decide if a supplement or some time in the sun is needed. In addition, keep your eyes out for dermatology recommendations regarding healthy sun exposure which may be changing. There are risks to tanning, and it is important to discuss your concerns with your teen.

In fact, discussing the risks and benefits of sun exposure are a good way to discuss the importance of moderation in many activities in their lives. Get diet and wellness tips to help your kids stay healthy and happy. Food and Drug Administration. Consumer updates. Indoor tanning: the risks of ultraviolet rays. Updated December 18, Sunscreen: how to help protect your skin from the sun.

Updated August 29, Environmental Working Group. EWG's guide to suncreens. Wimalawansa SJ. Prevention of chronic diseases by maintaining physiological concentrations of vitamin D. J Clin Endocrin Diabe Rese. Vitamin D fact sheet for health professionals.

Staying out of the sun altogether may seem like the only logical answer. But who wants to live like a hermit? The key is to enjoy the sun sensibly, finding a balance between sun protection and those great summer activities like beach volleyball and swimming. Sunscreens block or change the effect of the sun's harmful rays.

They're one of your best defenses against sun damage because they protect you without interfering with your comfort and activity levels. Here are some tips to enjoy the great outdoors while protecting your skin and eyes from sun damage:. Even when you're serious about protecting your skin, you may sometimes want the glow of a tan.

Luckily, many products on the market — but not sun lamps or tanning beds — will let you tan safely and sun-free. One safe way to go bronze is with sunless self-tanners.

These "tans in a bottle" contain dihydroxyacetone DHA , which gradually stains the dead cells in your skin's outer layer. The "tan" lasts until these skin cells slough off, so exfoliating or vigorously washing will make the color fade faster. Typically, self-tanners last from several days to a week. You may have to try a few brands of self-tanner to find one that looks best with your skin tone.

For a subtle, goof-proof glow, try moisturizers that contain a modest amount of fake tanner, letting you gradually build up a little color without blotches and staining — or the smell that some people dislike. Ask a friend to help you apply self-tanner to spots you can't reach, like your back. And be sure to wash your hands as soon as you finish applying the tanner.