Sun Protection & Tanning Products

What Spf Rating Should You Look for When Choosing a Sunscreen? 

SPF, or sun protection factor, is the length of time skin can be exposed to direct sunlight before burning. For example, if skin usually burns after 10 minutes in the sun, a sunscreen with SPF 30 may keep the skin burn-free for 300 minutes. SPF also refers to the amount of UV rays it is able to block. SPF 15 sunscreen can safeguard skin from 93 percent of UV rays, while SPF 30 shields it from roughly 97 percent. As such, choosing a sunscreen with a higher SPF is ideal, preferably SPF 30 or higher. There are also other factors to consider, however, such as whether the product provides protection from both UVA and UVB rays, and its key ingredients. Sunscreens with zinc oxide, for instance, are usually more beneficial.

How Do You Apply Sunless Tanning Lotion? 

Start with a clean slate by using mild soap and an exfoliating scrub to wash the area beforehand. Put on a pair of gloves to avoid staining hands and fingers, and then use long, gentle strokes to apply the tanner to the skin. Move in one direction to prevent streaks and apply more sunless tanning lotion to light areas. For dry patches, such as the elbows, mix the tanner with moisturizer before applying, as they tend to absorb more lotion, which can lead to dark spots. After the lotion has set into the skin, wipe away with a clean cloth or wash off in the shower.