Having a great tan makes you look healthy and attractive, but getting that tan isn't necessarily a healthy process. There are several potential harmful effects of getting a tan. Namely, the exposure to harmful Ultraviolet, or UV, rays can lead to skin cancer. Therefore, you need to take a few steps in order to get a great looking tan without putting yourself in harms way.

Where a Sunscreen

While you might think that you should go out with a sunscreen, the opposite is true. By wearing a sunscreen, you protect your skin while allowing it to gradually become tanned. Ideally, you should wear a sunscreen with an SPF rating of less than 15 but no lower than 8. This will allow your tan to develop gradually and safely.

Take It Slow

In addition to choosing the right sunscreen, you should also take it easy when it comes to sun exposure. You should start your tanning process gradually, spending only 10 to 15 minutes of time in the sun or under a tanning lamp at first. As your tan begins to develop, you can add on time to your sunbathing moments. Keep in mind that it is also best to avoid the sun between the hours of 10:00 am and 2:00 pm because the rays are the most harmful at this time.

Moisturize Your Skin

Overexposure to the sun can cause your skin to prematurely age. In order to help prevent this from happening, you need to keep your skin moisturized. Moisturizing your skin should be a part of your regular routine even if you are not sunbathing. If you are tanning, however, it becomes even more important. Many sunscreens contain moisturizer, so you will moisturize your skin every time you apply the screen. If your preferred screen does not contain moisturizer, however, you can apply it at another time. A moisturizer containing aloe is ideal. Not only will this help keep your skin healthy, it will also help you make your tan last longer.

Know Your Skin

There are some special considerations that you will need to keep in mind if you fit certain conditions. For example, if you are on acne medication or other medications, your resistance to the sun may be lowered. Similarly, you have light skin, you will be more likely to get sunburned than if you have a darker complexion.

Of course, another option is to use a tanning lotion. With a tanning lotion, you don't have to expose your skin to the sun at all!