By DAVID MATTESON
While getting that perfect color may be criticized by many (skin cancer and all that boring blah, blah, blah), no one ever mentions the truly fantastic benefits of tanning.
Other than the luscious, dark tan you develop, the UV rays in tanning beds also help with the body’s development of Vitamin D. This will help prevent osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Ironically, the development of Vitamin D from tanning beds can also help one avoid prostate, colon and breast cancer, as reported by recent medical studies including those from Creighton University.
The most important benefit is the self-confidence you will receive. Everyone looks better tan. Twilight and all that vampire stupidity may be your obsession, but that doesn’t mean you need to look like one. So if you’re ready to shed your pale blubbery winter look for one that makes you feel attractive all day long, check out these tips for finding your perfect color.
Don’t rush perfection- You’ll always remember your first time. And hopefully you won’t burn.
Every tanning virgin makes the mistake of tanning too long his or her first session. Even if you are the type that get’s super duper dark during the summer, step back and work at your tan gradually. Even if tanning is costing you a paycheck and a half, know that burning is just going to be a bigger waste of money than going for multiple sessions.
Don’t be insulted when the overly perky girl at the desk tells you to only tan for eight or nine minutes your first time. They want you to get the best results possible. After all, if you look as red as a lobster when you leave the salon, then that reflects badly upon their business. It might take a couple of weeks to get that bodacious bronze, but it will be worth it in the long run.
Lotion matters- The number of lotions stocked on the wall shelving will overwhelm you. There are hundreds.
Just know there are two main types of tanning lotions- bronzers and tingles. The first is simply a combination of colored lotions with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. It helps provide an instant tan look while your skin becomes gradually darker. There are five types of bronzers and the best lotions will combine all of these.
Tingle lotions are for those looking for an extreme color effect. They are intense and should not be used unless one already has a dark tan. They work by raising blood flow to the top layer of the skin, helping to provide more oxygen to the melanin and thus making one darker. Some complain that tingle lotions make their bodies feel like they are on fire and then trampled with Jimmy Choo stilettos.
To Spray or Not to Spray?- Spray tans are amazing for instantaneous effect, yet there are drawbacks. Most notably is the risk you run of turning out like Zac Efron on the cover of Rolling Stone in 2007, or Paris Hilton in just about every public appearance. That is, more orange than Charlie Brown’s great pumpkin. Most salons offer the option of a clear application (which gradually becomes bronze) and a bronze application (which goes on bronze and becomes even more dark). If you have decided spray, then clear is the way to go ($25 per session).
Spray is a UV ray free alternative to tanning beds, and for those looking for a subtle glow, these can be great. Just don’t over do it.
Tanning is a fun experience. You’re safe, relaxed and surrounded in warmth. Plus, aren’t we all tired of Floridians who have up and decided to look like Edward and Bella? What traitors.