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Fundamental Facts About Sun Tan Lotions

By Haywood Hunter


More than one million people in the United States each year are diagnosed with some type of cancer. The latter is associated with the sun and too much exposure to UV rays. Sun tan lotions were formulated to help people keep their skin safe from both sunburns and various skin cancers.

Those looking for avenues through which to protect themselves from UV rays may wish to consider purchasing a quality lotion that will ensure their goal is achieved. However, it is essential to understand certain facts prior to choosing a product of this type. The term suntan lotion is a phrase that covers a vast range of formulas, including sunblock or sunscreen. It can also refer to blends that attract the rays of the sun, which are typically used by individuals who are seeking a dark tan.

Sunscreens are designed to absorb the sun's UV rays and then release them again through one's pores as heat. This action prevents the rays of the sun from reaching the deepest layers of the person's skin. Sunblock works by another method, and actually reflects the rays away from one's skin to a different surface. Both are helpful, but most dermatologists suggest that one use sunblock, as it will prevent any harmful rays from being absorbed by the person's pores.

Titanium oxide and zinc oxide are the active ingredients in the majority of sun tan lotions. The only exception to this is tanning accelerators, which do not contain these ingredients. Because there are major differences among such products, it is important for consumers to read the labels on the formulas in which they are interested.

If a person's goal is to stop the development of cancer or other types of skin damage, he or she should select a product with a high sun protection factor. The abbreviation for this is SPF. The latter is usually printed on the bottle's label, and is displayed as a number from two to sixty. The blends that have the highest SPFs offer the most protection.

It is also essential for individuals to realize that some lotions block both UVB and UVA rays, but some only block one or the other. Even though both can have dangerous side effects, UVA rays are more dangerous than UVB rays. Anyone who wants to get as much protection from the sun as possible should choose a blend that counteracts both types of rays.

Sunscreens should be applied about thirty minutes prior to any type of sun exposure. This allows the formula an appropriate amount of time to be absorbed into the person's pores, where it will work effectively to prevent skin damage. The lotion should be used on any parts of one's body that he or she anticipates exposing to the sun. It is also important to reapply the product according to the directions on the label.

One can purchase sun tan lotions in conventional bricks and mortar stores or via the Internet. However, as mentioned earlier, consumers should make sure that they purchase only the best quality formulas, or they will not be very helpful in preventing sunburn or skin cancer. Regardless of the formula one selects, it is always a good idea to exercise wisdom with regard to sun exposure.




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