Many people are attracted to sun bathing simply to get a healthy looking tan. But exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun do much damage to your skin in terms of sun burn,  pigmentation, and loss of elasticity. These can lead to premature aging. This appears in the form of wrinkles, fine lines, dark skin, uneven skin tone, sagging, enlarged pores and dryness.

Moderate Sun Exposure is Good for You

Moderate exposure to the sun contributes to the self production of melanin and vitamin D which is known as the “sunshine” vitamin. Melanin is the pigment that gives your skin and hair their colour. It is an effective absorbant of light and due to this property, to an extent, it can protect against skin damage from the sun. But excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays has negative health effects on your body.

A Tan is a Visible Sign of Damaged Skin

Actually a tan is a visible sign of damaged skin. During tanning the skin is overly exposed to the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sunlight. This produces the tanning effect on the skin. Several people are addicted to the process of tanning and some tans their skin using artificial sources that generates UV rays

People who tans or overly expose their skin to UV rays without sunscreen protection are at the risk of severe sunburn. Sunburn is the inflamed redness that seen on the skin after excessive exposure to UV rays. It appears on your skin according to its severity. In severe cases, it shows up immediately after the exposure. It may develop up to 24 hours later.

Studies show that excessive exposure to UV rays weakens the immune system, suppresses the normal immune responses and cause some other long term health problems.

If you tan your skin regularly and mercilessly, even the best skin supplements, topical skin lightening treatments or genetics would be of little use. We cannot avoid  sun exposure, but should be always sensible about the duration of the exposure. If the exposure is an extended period of time, ensuring to use a sunscreen is very important,