What To Know
- A sunglasses tan is a temporary darkening of the skin around your eyes, caused by the sun’s UV rays.
- A sunglasses tan can increase your risk of skin cancer, especially if you have a history of sunburns.
- If you’re looking for a way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without the risks of a sunglasses tan, there are a few alternatives you can try.
Summer is here, and it’s time to enjoy the sun! But before you head out, you might be wondering: can you get a sunglasses tan? The answer is yes, you can. A sunglasses tan is a temporary darkening of the skin around your eyes, caused by the sun’s UV rays. While it may seem like a harmless fashion statement, a sunglasses tan can actually be harmful to your skin. In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes, risks, and prevention of sunglasses tans.
What Causes a Sunglasses Tan?
A sunglasses tan is caused by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation that can penetrate the skin and damage the DNA in skin cells. This damage can lead to sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging.
When you wear sunglasses, the lenses block some of the UV rays from reaching your eyes. However, the skin around your eyes is still exposed to UV rays, and these rays can cause the skin to tan.
Risks of a Sunglasses Tan
A sunglasses tan may seem like a harmless fashion statement, but it can actually be harmful to your skin. Here are some of the risks associated with sunglasses tans:
- Sunburn: The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the skin on the rest of your face. This makes it more susceptible to sunburn. A sunglasses tan can increase your risk of sunburn, especially if you’re not wearing sunscreen.
- Skin cancer: UV rays can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to skin cancer. A sunglasses tan can increase your risk of skin cancer, especially if you have a history of sunburns.
- Premature aging: UV rays can also cause premature aging of the skin. This can lead to wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. A sunglasses tan can accelerate the aging process of the skin around your eyes.
Preventing a Sunglasses Tan
The best way to prevent a sunglasses tan is to wear sunscreen every day, even if it’s cloudy. Sunscreen helps to block UV rays from reaching your skin and can help to reduce your risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging.
When choosing a sunscreen, look for one that is:
- Broad-spectrum: This means that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- SPF 30 or higher: This provides adequate protection from UV rays.
- Water-resistant: This will help to keep the sunscreen on your skin, even if you’re swimming or sweating.
In addition to wearing sunscreen, you can also help to prevent a sunglasses tan by:
- Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays.
- Wearing a hat with a brim to shade your face.
- Avoiding spending too much time in the sun, especially during the peak hours of 10am to 4pm.
Treating a Sunglasses Tan
If you do get a sunglasses tan, there are a few things you can do to treat it:
- Moisturize: Apply a moisturizer to the affected area to help soothe and hydrate the skin.
- Use a cold compress: Apply a cold compress to the affected area to help reduce inflammation.
- Avoid sun exposure: Avoid spending time in the sun until the tan fades.
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, a sunglasses tan will fade on its own within a few weeks. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you should see a doctor:
- The tan is severe or painful.
- The tan is accompanied by blisters or peeling skin.
- The tan does not fade after a few weeks.
The Importance of Protecting Your Skin
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it plays a vital role in your overall health. Protecting your skin from the sun’s UV rays is essential for preventing sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. By following the tips in this blog post, you can help to protect your skin and enjoy the sun safely.
Alternatives to Sunglasses Tans
If you’re looking for a way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without the risks of a sunglasses tan, there are a few alternatives you can try:
- Use a self-tanner: Self-tanners are available in a variety of forms, including lotions, gels, and sprays. They work by gradually darkening the skin over time.
- Get a spray tan: Spray tans are applied by a professional using a special machine. They provide a quick and easy way to achieve a sunless tan.
- Use a bronzer: Bronzers are makeup products that can be used to create a temporary tan. They are available in a variety of shades to match your skin tone.
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I get a sunglasses tan even if I’m wearing sunscreen?
A: Yes, it is possible to get a sunglasses tan even if you’re wearing sunscreen. However, sunscreen can help to reduce your risk of getting a tan.
Q: How long does a sunglasses tan last?
A: A sunglasses tan typically lasts for a few weeks. However, the duration of the tan can vary depending on your skin type and the amount of time you spend in the sun.
Q: What are the risks of a sunglasses tan?
A: A sunglasses tan can increase your risk of sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging.
