Tanned skin is a common condition caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. While a tan can give the skin a darker appearance, it is essentially a sign of skin damage and can lead to various skin issues over time.
Tanned skin is skin that has darkened due to excess sun exposure, especially UV rays. It is a result of an increase in the melanin content of the skin, which is the body’s natural protective measure triggered to minimise additional skin damage. Eumelanin is the specific type of melanin that tans the skin with a brown colour.
Tanning is mostly visible on uncovered parts of the body such as the face, arms, hands, legs, feet, back and neck.
Here are some common reasons for stretch marks on body
If you have Skin Type I, you have pale white skin that may never tan.
If you have Skin Type II, you have a white to light beige complexion that may tan minimally.
If you have Skin Type III, you have a beige skin tone that may gradually tan to a light-brown colour.
If you have Skin Type IV, you have light brown skin, which may tan to a dark brown colour.
If you have Skin Type V, you have a moderately brown complexion, which may tan to a more profuse brown colour.
If you have Skin Type VI, you have a dark brown or black complexion that may tan generously.
A dermatologist can assess and diagnose the severity of skin tan.
Children below the age of 5 years and mature adults over 50 years have a reduced thickness of skin that is usually more sensitive to harmful ultraviolet radiation.
Individuals with immune deficiencies and chronic conditions are more vulnerable to the side effects of UV exposure.
Use a sunscreen which is labelled to protect against UV-A and UV-B rays throughout the year. The SPF factor in the sunscreen lotion should be a minimum of 30 for most skin types. Some individuals may need SPF 50 depending on their skin type. A dermatologist-prescribed sunscreen is ideal for use.
Avoid sun exposure, when the sunrays are harshest, especially between 10 am and 4 pm.
Cover your head with a hat or a scarf and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Dark, tightly woven or knitted fabric clothing is better to prevent skin damage due to sun exposure.
