You have probably heard or been told by friend or family member just how dangerous tanning is. However, there is nothing wrong with sitting in the sun a little each day to soak up some Vitamin D as well as improve any type of skin ailment you may have such as acne and eczema. Everyone wants to have that golden tan. Fortunately, there are many ways to reach a tan that is sure to wow you and others.

The Sun

Over the years, sun tanning has been receiving harsh criticism because of skin cancer and sun damage. However, many people still prefer a naturally obtained tan by spending some time outside. Sun tanning will get you a natural golden glow. However, make sure that you wear a sunscreen that is at least 30 SPF this will allow you to tan while protecting from skin dehydration and sunburn.

Tanning Booths and Beds

Because of the convenience and availability of tanning in a solarium, this method has become very popular. Tanning salons can be found in almost every town. Many prefer this method because the amount of exposure to the light is limited and monitored, unlike tanning in the sun. There are two types of solariums, stand up booths and beds. Stand up solariums allow you to tan white areas such as under the arms as well as on the inside of the legs. Tanning in a bed allows you to lie down. When tanning in a solarium because the UV light is so strong and you tan quicker, it is recommended that each tanning session last between 8 to 10 minutes.

Getting That Temporary Tan

If you don't want to do something so permanent (or potentially damaging to your skin), you can opt for a spray on tan. In 20 minutes, you'll have a golden tan that might even less dulcimer. For this, you spray a fine mist on your body in one or two coats. For this, it's best to have a trained technician spray you, or you can stand in an automatic "spray tan" booth and have it done in a matter of minutes.

There are many lotions that will give you a fake tan that you can apply yourself. There's lotions and moisturisers for the face and body that will give your skin a colour boost. Sometimes the lotions are cheap and the sugary ingredients cause an issue with natural pigmentation. This can cause unsightly orange patches especially around rough skin places like knees and elbows.

For best results, take a bath before you apply spray on or lotion tans so that you have nothing acting as a barrier between your skin and the tanning product. You shouldn't have any lotions, powders, or anything else preventing absorption. After you do the application, too, you shouldn't swim or bathe for 8 to 10 hours. Shave at least 12 to 24 hours before you apply any products so that the tan will go on more evenly. In addition, dry areas such as elbows and knees tend to pick up tanning product more readily than the rest of the body because they tend to be dry, so be aware that these areas of the body may tan more darkly.

You can also opt for a quick tan that washes off with soap and water. A product called "Dream Tan" has been used by bodybuilders for years for a quick, bronze like glow that's temporary. However, you have to be careful because this product can rub off on your clothes.

You may have a special reason or occassion coming up that warrants a tan. Whatever the case, consider the best method for you and your skin type. Once you have your tan, enjoy the admiration of your golden glow.