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 Why We Tan-and What Your Skin Wishes You Knew

Summer is here and for the majority of the people that means having fun in the sun whether that is beaches, lakes, swimming pools, sports, or just laying out in the sun.

 
We have all probably noticed how being out in the sun causes the skin to turn darker, but did you ever know why?
 
When you tan, your skin is actually responding to damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation- it’s a protective reaction, not a sign of improved skin health.
 
Here’s what’s happening step by step:
 
1. UV radiation hits your skin
Sunlight contains two main types of UV rays:
  • UVA: penetrates deeper and causes aging (wrinkles, loss of elasticity)
  • UVB: affects the surface and is responsible for sunburn
2. DNA damage triggers a defense response
UV rays damage the DNA in your skin cells. In response, your body activates a protective process to prevent further harm.
 
3. Melanin production increases
Special skin cells called melanocytes produce more melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color).
Melanin acts like a natural shield by absorbing and dispersing UV radiation.
 
4. Skin darkens (the tan)
The extra melanin spreads across your skin cells, making your skin look darker—this is your tan.
 
Two types of tanning:
  • Immediate tanning (UVA): happens quickly, but fades fast (just darkens existing melanin)
  • Delayed tanning (UVB): takes a few days, lasts longer, involves new melanin production
Important truth:
A tan is your skin showing signs of injury, not protection. Even though melanin offers some defense, it’s limited and doesn’t prevent:
  • premature aging
  • sunspots
  • increased risk of skin cancer
Bottom line
  • Tanning = your body trying to protect itself after UV damage.
  • That “healthy glow” is actually your skin going into defense mode.
  • For prolonged periods in the sun, don’t forget to put on SPF so you protect your skin from the harmful rays!