Almost half of America’s population longs for that bold and sexy tan. During those hot summer days, everyone wants to get out and spend their days either surfing at the beach or sun bathing on the shores. But before anything else, one should be aware that the sun does have harmful effects on our skin.

First of all, a sun tan is not really healthy. It is a result of the skin’s reaction to the rays from the sun, with the skin trying to repair its skin cells. Too much exposure from the sun can cause skin cancer and other harmful diseases to the skin. The possible damages to the skin are cumulative if sunburns are repeated and exposure to the sun is prolonged. These may not be noticeable at first. However, damaged skin may become dry, wrinkled, and even discolored.

It is recommended therefore that you stay out of the sun between the 10 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon. It is in these times that the sun’s rays are strongest, thus most damaging. When going out, always apply enough sunscreen to protect your skin. The sunscreen should have an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 15. If you stay in the sun for a long time, reapply regularly.

During those summer outings to the beach, apply a larger amount of sunscreen. Wear sunglasses so as to protect your eyes. Sand and water reflect the sun’s damaging rays, making them more dangerous at the beach.

Looking good and sexy is not really a bad thing. However, we might as well consider our body’s health first before anything else. After all, healthy is sexy.