July has arrived, marking the start of summer community festivals and lazy
days by the pool or on the beach. Bathing suits, halter tops and alternative cuts in clothing reveal tender skin that has been protected by t-shirts and business suits year-round. There are two solutions to avoid unseemly tan lines (or burns!)
Traditionally, many people have spent hours in the sun or tanning beds trying to build up a “base tan.” A tan is your skin’s natural reaction to UVA and UVB radiation. Your body is trying to protect itself from harmful effects by creating a barrier. The tan, however, is the first sign of sun damage to your skin.
Alternatively, applying sun block with a minimum rating of SPF 15 can prevent the development of premature skin aging as well as unsightly stripes and tan lines. For active sports, choose a water proof sunblock. After swimming or vigorous sweating, reapply sun block. For healthy choices in sun block, see the Environmental Working Group’s 2010 Sun block report.
Conscientious and regular application of sun block will allow you to fashionably wear many cuts of clothing without unseemly tan lines. Keep you and your loved ones safe and beautiful!
