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Sunbathing: benefits, harms
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
Summer is in full swing, so the issue of getting a perfect tan is very relevant. Let's consider the main recommendations and contraindications for sunbathing.
After long months of cold, the body needs sunlight and, of course, vitamin D. But before you dive headfirst into sunbathing, you need to prepare properly. Tanning itself is a protective reaction of the body to ultraviolet radiation. When faced with it, the skin throws all its strength into creating an effective barrier. The epidermis contains special cells, melanocytes, which produce a dark pigment - melanin, which protects tissues from burning. That is, a bronze tan is a reaction of melanin to damage to the skin by sun rays.
To understand the tanning process, let's look at the main types of solar radiation:
- Sunlight is a visible spectrum.
- Ultraviolet (UV) – responsible for the photochemical effect, gives the skin a beautiful color.
- Infrared – causes a thermal effect.
UV accounts for about 5% of all radiation, which is characterized by pronounced biological activity. It is divided into three spectra, each of which has a certain length of rays and its own characteristics of impact on the human body:
- Spectrum C is a hard short-wave radiation with a wavelength of 100-280 nm. The rays are retained in the ozone layer, that is, they practically do not reach the surface of the Earth. They have a destructive effect on all living things.
- Spectrum B is a medium-wave 280-320 nm. It makes up about 20% of UV falling on the Earth's surface. It has mutagenic properties, affects cellular DNA, and causes disruption of its structure. It penetrates not only the epidermis, but is also absorbed by the cornea. It causes severe burns to the skin and eyes.
- Spectrum A is a soft long-wave radiation of 315-400 nm. It makes up 80% of all UV. It has a thousand times less energy than spectrum B. It penetrates the skin, reaches the subcutaneous tissue, affects the vessels and connective tissue fibers. It promotes the production of biologically active substances in the body.
The sun is a powerful source of vitamin D3. To get its daily dose, it is enough to sunbathe for 10-15 minutes. The vitamin is involved in calcium metabolism, helps strengthen teeth, bones, hair and nails. Summer vacation accelerates hematopoiesis and increases the protective properties of the immune system.
The skin is a reliable barrier that protects against many damaging environmental factors. But the capabilities of its protective mechanisms are not unlimited. If the action of a damaging factor is intense or too long, it can cause damage to the epidermis and the body as a whole.
Is sunbathing beneficial or harmful?
With the onset of summer, many people wonder whether sunbathing is beneficial or harmful. First of all, you should know that the heavenly body is a natural doctor, so it is not only beneficial, but also necessary for the human body.
Let's consider the main properties of sunbathing:
- The action of ultraviolet light activates the synthesis of vitamin D, which is necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. It strengthens muscles and bones, promotes wound healing, and acts as a preventative measure against rickets in children and osteoporosis in adults.
- Activate and stimulate metabolic processes, blood circulation and respiration. Improve the functioning of the endocrine system and accelerate metabolism.
- Helps to get rid of various dermatological problems: psoriasis, acne, eczema, fungus. Due to its destructive effect on pathogenic microorganisms, UV is used in the treatment of skin tuberculosis.
- They help harden the body, strengthen its defenses and increase resistance to various infections.
- They activate the production of the hormone serotonin, which helps cope with chronic stress, depression and decreased performance.
But, despite the above-mentioned beneficial properties, natural tanning has certain contraindications and rules. Their observance allows you to make your summer vacation as useful and safe as possible.
At what time is it not allowed to sunbathe?
An important aspect of safe summer recreation is choosing the right time for sunbathing. Let's consider what time you can't sunbathe and other aspects of this procedure.
- The sun is a source of radioactive energy. Its peak activity is from 11:00 to 16:00. That is, it is strictly not recommended to go outside during the day. During this period, there is a high risk of burns, especially for those with light sensitive skin.
- It is better to sunbathe from 8:00 to 11:00. After 16:00 you can safely relax on the beach, since it is during this time period that you can get an even skin tone.
- You should get a tan gradually, i.e. lying under the scorching rays all day is contraindicated. You can start with 10 minutes and gradually increase the time.
- The maximum time of continuous sun exposure should not exceed 2 hours per day.
Tanning is good for the body, but only if it is acquired correctly. Sun procedures need to be properly organized. Since excessive passion can lead to serious consequences. The most dangerous is the development of skin cancer.
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Why and who should not sunbathe?
The skin's reaction to the damaging effects of UV radiation is a tan. Under its influence, the cells begin to produce the pigment melanin, which gives the tissues a beautiful chocolate shade. But like any procedure, sunbathing has certain contraindications. Let's consider why and who should not sunbathe in the sun.
Absolute contraindications:
- Sun allergy (photodermatitis).
- Use of medications with photosensitizing properties (sulfonamides, tetracyclines, fetothiazine derivatives).
- Albinism is a genetic disorder characterized by a complete absence of melanin in skin cells.
- Oncological pathologies of any localization.
- Mastopathy or conditions after breast cancer therapy.
- Hyperthermia.
- Endocrine diseases.
- Thyroid pathologies.
- Acute infectious processes.
- Recovery period after rejuvenating procedures, peeling, beauty injections, laser hair removal.
Relative contraindications:
- Small children up to 2-3 years old. Babies have thin and vulnerable skin, which is very sensitive to solar radiation.
- People over 60-65 years old. As a rule, at this age many have problems with blood pressure, cardiovascular pathologies and other diseases.
- Presence of benign neoplasms.
- Pregnancy.
- Presence of large dysplastic nevi.
Excessive tanning accelerates photoaging of the skin, provokes the destruction of collagen fibers. Hyperpigmentation of the epidermis is possible, that is, the formation of yellow-brown areas and benign pathologies (freckles, lentigo, melanocytic nevi).
The risk of developing melanoma, a malignant skin lesion, also increases significantly. According to medical statistics, melanoma is the second most common cancer among young women. In terms of mortality, it is second only to lung cancer. The disease can be triggered by a natural source of ultraviolet radiation and a solarium. The sun suppresses the immune system, causing activation of the herpes virus. It dehydrates the skin, making it wrinkled, dull, rough and coarse.
What illnesses prevent you from sunbathing?
Despite the many beneficial properties of sun treatments, sunbathing is not beneficial for everyone. Let's consider the diseases that prevent sunbathing:
- Malignant diseases and precancerous conditions.
- Ophthalmological diseases.
- Tuberculosis.
- Varicose veins.
- A large number of nevi, pigment spots and birthmarks.
- Gynecological diseases (mastopathy, polycystic disease and others).
- Autoimmune pathologies.
- Infectious diseases.
- Diseases of the cardiovascular system.
- Endocrine diseases.
- Psychoneurological diseases.
In addition to the listed pathologies, beach holidays are contraindicated after certain cosmetic procedures:
- Peeling and hardware skin cleansing.
- Laser hair removal.
- Permanent makeup.
- Removal of skin neoplasms.
- Wrap with essential oils.
- Botox injections.
There are also temporary contraindications to tanning associated with drug therapy:
- Photosensitizers – increase the risk of sunburn. You can rest 1-6 months after finishing their use.
- Medicines containing retinol, tretinoin or retinoic acid. Used to treat acne and eliminate wrinkles.
- Antimicrobial and antifungal drugs (Triclosan, Chlorhexidine, Griseofulvin).
- Diuretic drugs (based on Chlorthalidone and Furosemide).
- Antipsoriatic cosmetics.
- Antidepressants, tranquilizers and anticonvulsants.
- Antihistamines, antiemetics and antibiotics.
- Antidiabetic drugs that lower blood sugar levels.
- Contraceptives and other drugs based on estrogen and progesterone.
If contraindications for tanning are violated, serious complications are possible:
- Sunburn – occurs most often. It occurs because UV radiation burns the upper layer of the epidermis. It manifests itself as a feeling of tightness of the skin, redness and blisters. In particularly severe cases, the temperature rises, blood pressure drops, general weakness and disorientation appear.
- Sunstroke – occurs due to prolonged exposure to heat without a hat. Blood vessels dilate, and blood rushes to the head. There is a sharp weakness, headaches, pupils dilate. Nosebleeds and loss of consciousness are possible. The temperature rises, attacks of nausea and vomiting occur.
- Photodermatosis is an allergy to the sun that occurs with increased sensitivity to UV. The painful condition manifests itself as redness, inflammation and peeling of the skin. There is severe itching and burning, various rashes and swelling of the mucous membranes.
- Skin cancer – frequent and prolonged sunbathing can cause burns and provoke malignant lesions. According to medical statistics, about 50-80% of cancers occur due to the harmful effects of natural ultraviolet radiation.
- Ophthalmological diseases – staying in the heat can cause dry eye syndrome, decreased vision, clouding of the lens (cataracts) and inflammation of the conjunctiva.
- Photoaging – prolonged tanning leads to damage to the upper layer of the skin. Such reactions are similar to the changes that occur in old age. Dry skin, vascular changes, redness, various pigment spots, freckles, wrinkles appear.
Is it possible to sunbathe in the sun if you have psoriasis?
A chronic inflammatory disease that affects the skin and forms plaques (dry, clearly defined spots) on its surface is psoriasis. This pathology causes not only painful sensations, but also cosmetic discomfort. Psoriatic rashes are localized throughout the body. Plaques can appear on the head, back, abdomen, most often the elbow surfaces and knee bends, buttocks are affected.
In the cold season, the rash can be covered with clothing, but in the summer, many patients have a question: is it possible to sunbathe with psoriasis in the sun? First of all, it should be noted that this disease and ultraviolet radiation are compatible. Summer is the most favorable period for treatment. Solar procedures in combination with sea water, that is, rest on the sea coast, have pronounced therapeutic properties.
Sunbathing provides long-term and stable remission due to the thickening of the skin and an increase in the flow of oxygen into the lymphatic fluid.
Beneficial properties of the sun:
- Destruction of psoriatic plaques and renewal of the epidermis.
- Acceleration of the regeneration process of damaged tissues.
- Eliminates itching and flaking.
- Slowing down the formation of new plaques and papules.
Ultraviolet rays of type A and B suppress pathological processes occurring on the surface of the epidermis. Therefore, with their help, you can quickly get rid of not only various rashes, but also speed up the healing of wounds and ulcers.
Scientists have found that the exacerbation of the disease in the cold season is associated with a deficiency of vitamin D in the blood. Its deficiency can be restored with the help of food or sunbathing. The effectiveness of such therapy is individual for each specific case and depends on the type and kind of disease.
Rules for sun treatments for psoriasis:
- The duration of the first stay in the sun should not exceed 10 minutes. After that, the duration of rest can be gradually increased, bringing it up to 30 minutes.
- It is better to sunbathe in the morning from 8:00 to 11:00 or in the evening from 16:00 to 20:00. The lunch period is the most dangerous, since the sun is most active and can lead to complications of the disease.
- To prevent skin dryness, you should use special sunscreens with a high protection factor.
- After sunbathing, psoriasis plaques should be treated with ointments and aerosols that contain the active ingredient zinc pyrithione.
Despite all the benefits and effectiveness of sun treatment for psoriasis, this procedure has certain contraindications. Such therapy is prohibited for patients whose disease worsens in the summer, which is about 5% of all patients.
Good conditions for treating psoriasis are created at the resorts of Bulgaria, Slovenia and, of course, Israel. Rest and treatment in sanatoriums on the Dead Sea allows the disease to be transferred to a stage of long-term remission.
Is it possible to sunbathe in the sun if you have viral hepatitis?
A viral disease that affects the liver is hepatitis. The disease can be asymptomatic or manifest itself in acute painful attacks. In any case, the patient will have to undergo long-term treatment and rehabilitation, diet therapy and a number of other contraindications. Because of this, many patients ask the question: is it possible to sunbathe in the sun with viral hepatitis?
If the disease is in a state of stable remission, then rest is possible provided the following rules are observed:
- You can be under the beach until 10:00 in the morning and from 17-18:00 in the evening, when the skin is exposed to infrared radiation, not ultraviolet radiation, which does not affect the rapid reproduction of the virus in the body.
- To eliminate the possibility of various complications, it is necessary to use sunscreens with an increased protection factor. They minimize the harmful effects on the skin.
- If you feel unwell during your rest, you should go to a cool place, for example, under a roof or umbrella. Also, don't forget about your headgear.
During an exacerbation of the disease, sun treatments are contraindicated. This is due to the fact that ultraviolet light stimulates the reproduction of the virus.
Is it possible to sunbathe if you have uterine fibroids?
A benign formation in the tissues of the uterus (can be located in the endometrium, under the serous membrane, in the cervix or inside the muscular layer) is a myoma. According to medical statistics, the disease occurs in 30% of women, most often at the age of 25-35 years. The peculiarity of the pathology is its asymptomatic course and serious complications. Treatment is carried out surgically, the type of operation depends on the individual characteristics of the patient's body.
After therapy, many patients are interested in the question: is it possible to sunbathe in the sun with uterine fibroids? Sun procedures are not contraindicated, but before carrying them out, you should wait until the end of the rehabilitation period. Such precautions are related to the fact that fibroids tend to recur, and overheating of the body is a favorable condition for this.
In medical practice, there are often cases when the disease recurs due to a short vacation in hot countries. To prevent such consequences, you should rest in the sun with special caution, adhering to all the rules of safe tanning.
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Is it possible to sunbathe in the sun if you have a cold?
Each organism is individual, therefore only the attending physician should decide whether it is possible to sunbathe with a cold in the sun. A runny nose and a sore throat are symptoms of an inflammatory process and a sign of reduced protective properties of the immune system. The action of sunlight in the first days reduces immunity, which increases the risk of developing various diseases and complications of existing ones. Therefore, even such a trifle as a cold at first glance can develop into a serious pathology.
At the same time, many doctors believe that a vacation on the sea coast has a therapeutic effect on colds, especially chronic respiratory diseases. Sea air is saturated with useful substances that cleanse the lungs and bronchi of accumulated toxins and help improve local immunity.
If you decide to undergo sun treatments during a cold, you should follow these recommendations:
- Avoid hypothermia (do not enter the water after being in the heat for a long time).
- Do not drink cold drinks, including sea/river water.
- Sunbathing should be done between 6 and 10 am and after 4 pm.
To speed up recovery, you should stick to a diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Various physical procedures, including mud therapy, will be useful.
Is it possible to sunbathe in the sun if you have mastopathy?
A benign disease with pathological proliferation of connective tissue in the mammary gland is mastopathy. As a rule, this disorder occurs due to hormonal imbalance. Without timely and proper treatment, it can cause cancer. Proper behavior in the sun plays an important role, since its rays intensively affect breast tissue. Whether it is possible to sunbathe with mastopathy in the sun should be determined only by the attending physician.
Sunlight has a comprehensive effect on the body: it is necessary for the epidermis and metabolism, normal functioning of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands and ovaries. Thanks to it, the body produces vitamin D, which is necessary for the normal growth of bones and ligaments. But, despite all the beneficial properties, the sun's rays have a particularly dangerous effect on the delicate and vulnerable tissue of the mammary glands.
Contraindications to sunbathing in case of mastopathy:
- The disease is in the acute stage.
- Cystic form of mastopathy.
- There is a pronounced pain syndrome.
- There are nodules, lumps, or tumor inclusions in the breast.
- The glands are swollen, there is discharge from the nipples.
Ultraviolet radiation can cause a benign tumor to degenerate into a cancerous one. You should also be careful when spending time in the sun if you are overweight, have had a recent breast surgery, or are taking hormonal drugs.
- Sunbathing does not cause mastopathy, but it can cause its aggravation. To prevent this from happening, you should follow these rules:
- 1. It is contraindicated to relax topless. It is necessary to be in a swimsuit that provides sufficient protection for the mammary glands.
- 2. You can stay in the heat until 11:00 am and after 4:00 pm. Evening tanning is the safest.
- 3. Before going outside, you need to stock up on enough liquid to prevent dehydration and other unpleasant consequences of prolonged exposure to heat.
Only a mammologist can make a final decision about the benefits of sun exposure for mastopathy, and individually for each case.
Is it possible to sunbathe if you have a sun allergy?
Various dermatological reactions and skin diseases cause significant discomfort, especially in the summer. Whether it is possible to sunbathe with an allergy to the sun is determined by the attending physician, individually for each patient. In recent years, allergies caused by ultraviolet radiation have become especially widespread. Its symptoms appear lightning fast, in some patients after a couple of seconds, and in other patients after 1-2 hours or on the second day after exposure to the sun.
Features of phototoxic reaction:
- Photodermatosis also occurs in healthy people after prolonged sunbathing. To prevent it, you should avoid the sun from 11:00 to 16:00 and protect your skin with special creams and lotions.
- Sun allergy may be associated with the intake of certain foods, medications, herbs, and other substances with photosensitizers.
- The pathological process is largely associated with immune disorders. People with endocrine system, liver and kidney diseases are at risk for its development.
- People with light (first, Celtic) skin phototype are prone to UV allergies. They practically do not tan, but pathological reactions to ultraviolet occur very often.
In most cases, allergies manifest as hives, eczema, or blisters. The rashes appear on the arms, face, legs, and chest. They most often look like rough, uneven patches of skin that hurt and itch. In rare cases, the rashes merge, forming crusts, bleeding, and scales.
A full summer vacation is possible only after the cause of the allergic reaction has been established and a course of treatment has been completed. But even after therapy, caution should be exercised when sunbathing and all medical recommendations should be followed.
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Is it possible to sunbathe after a heart attack?
Damage to the heart muscle due to disruption of its blood supply and blockage of one of the organ's arteries with an atherosclerotic plaque is a heart attack. The danger of this disease is that the affected part of the muscle dies and necrosis develops. Pathological processes begin 20-40 minutes after the blood flow stops. There are many factors that can cause a heart attack.
According to medical statistics, it is prolonged exposure to heat, sunstroke or heat stroke that most often cause heart damage and cerebrovascular accidents.
Let's take a closer look at how a heart attack develops, caused by a violation of thermoregulation, that is, a long rest in the heat:
- The body temperature gradually increases.
- The body tries to create a balance by comparing the temperature of the body and the environment.
- Adaptation mechanisms are exhausted and the decompensation phase begins.
- General intoxication of the body, DIC syndrome, renal and cardiac failure develop.
- The power supply to the brain is cut off.
- Hemorrhage and swelling occur.
Very often, people who have had this disease wonder whether it is possible to sunbathe after a heart attack. The possibility of a summer vacation and prolonged exposure to UV radiation depends on the level of recovery after the pathology and the general condition of the body. In most cases, doctors recommend minimizing sunbathing, doing it in the first half of the day or in the evening. Also, do not forget about protecting the skin and head from the sun, maintaining water balance.
Is it possible to sunbathe if you have sun dermatitis?
There is an opinion that the sun is useful for absolutely all dermatological diseases. In fact, everything is different. For example, whether it is possible to sunbathe with dermatitis in the sun depends entirely on the course of the disease, the age of the patient and, of course, medical indications. These precautions are related to the fact that after sunbathing, rashes can intensify, forming wet areas, crusts, causing severe itching and discomfort.
Dermatitis, especially its atopic form, is characterized by frequent exacerbations in the autumn-spring period. By the summer season, the pathological process in most cases subsides, and patients feel better. The improvement is primarily due to the action of ultraviolet radiation, which, in moderate doses, suppresses skin rashes and inflammation, and reduces itching.
Prolonged sunbathing is not recommended for dermatitis, especially during periods of increased solar activity. Sunbathing should be done in the morning before 11:00 and in the evening. In this case, hypoallergenic protective agents should be applied to the skin.
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Can you sunbathe if you have HIV?
Very often you can hear that such a diagnosis as human immunodeficiency virus is an absolute contraindication to summer vacation. The question of whether it is possible to sunbathe with HIV is individual for each patient. Excessive tanning is dangerous for many reasons, including those not related to HIV. For many people, sunbathing will not cause harm, but on the contrary will help to relax and unwind. In addition, UV has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the entire body, is beneficial to health.
The sunbathing rules for HIV patients are no different from the recommendations for healthy people:
- It is better to carry out sun procedures early in the morning or late in the evening. From 10:00 to 16:00 it is better to avoid increased solar activity.
- A protective cream with an increased ultraviolet filter should be applied to the body. The procedure is best done 20-30 minutes before going outside and repeated every 2-3 hours, especially after swimming.
- Eye and head protection should also be provided. It is recommended to stock up on drinking water during your vacation to prevent dehydration.
In any case, before planning a summer vacation, you should consult with your doctor. This is necessary in order to prevent side effects or complications from the medications used that may occur during sunbathing.
Is it possible to sunbathe after a sunburn?
Thermal, chemical or radiation damage to the skin causes a lot of discomfort, both physical and aesthetic. Many people who have suffered such injuries are interested in the question: is it possible to sunbathe after a sunburn? Sun procedures are allowed if there are no signs of tissue inflammation. Otherwise, tanning (both natural and artificial), baths, saunas and other thermal procedures are contraindicated.
If the recovery process has been successful, then short sunbathing will be beneficial for the body. At the same time, do not forget that young delicate skin is easily irritated, so it needs protection. Before going to the beach, you should treat the epidermis with a sunscreen with a high SPF.
If after sunbathing old burns swell or turn red, then further exposure to heat is contraindicated. The ban is valid until the tissues are completely healed. It would not be superfluous to use such products as Bepanten or Panthenol. They minimize painful sensations and accelerate the regeneration of damaged epidermis.
Is it possible to sunbathe in the sun if you have thyroid problems?
It is generally accepted that endocrine diseases and the sun are incompatible. But is this really true? Is it possible to sunbathe in the sun if you have thyroid problems? People with excess thyroid hormones – thyrotoxicosis – do not tolerate heat well. Therefore, in this case, before sunbathing, you should normalize your hormonal balance. Treatment is also necessary for hypothyroidism, that is, a deficiency of thyroid hormones. Otherwise, your summer vacation may be unsuccessful.
The thyroid gland regulates metabolic processes in the body and maintains normal body temperature. If the functions of the organ are impaired, then the climate change will negatively affect the well-being. The celestial body does not directly affect the gland, but when exposed, its immune cells can begin to attack the thyroid tissue.
If there are nodes in the thyroid gland, then before the summer vacation you should do a control ultrasound and take a blood test for hormones. If the nodes are large, then their biopsy is necessary. If the hormones are normal and the biopsy did not reveal malignant changes, then tanning is allowed. Such examinations should be done with an enlarged thyroid gland and in the presence of cystic formations in it.
Contraindications to sun treatments:
- Thyroid cancer.
- Increased hormonal levels.
- Nodes with rapid growth.
In other cases, rest is possible only with the permission of an endocrinologist. In this case, it is very important to adhere to the following rules:
- You shouldn't stay under direct UV radiation for a long time; it's better to rest in the shade, sunbathing in the morning or evening.
- Apply sunscreen to exposed areas of the body, renewing it every 2-3 hours. Wear a sun hat and sunglasses.
- Avoid dehydration. Drink mineral waters with hydrocarbonates.
The sun has a beneficial effect on the entire body, including the endocrine system. Staying on warm sand is beneficial. Short thermal procedures have a good effect on the reflex points on the feet, which are connected to the throat area and the thyroid gland.
Is it possible to sunbathe after chickenpox?
Chickenpox is an infectious disease with an extremely unpleasant symptom - watery rashes all over the body. The blisters quickly burst, forming crusts under which young skin grows. Based on this, the answer to the question of whether it is possible to sunbathe after chickenpox depends entirely on how much time has passed since recovery.
- Immediately after the disease, UV exposure is contraindicated, as it can aggravate the pathological condition and provoke complications in the form of altered pigmentation at the site of the rash.
- In most cases, the disease lasts no more than two weeks, with adults experiencing it in a severe form and children in a mild form.
- Many doctors advise patients not to go outside for a month after the skin has fully recovered. But there are a number of specialists who believe that sunbathing is contraindicated for a year.
The skin after chickenpox weakens greatly and cannot provide full protection from UV. In addition, in places where there was a rash, the dermis is thinned, which increases the risk of its burning. Because of this, instead of a beautiful chocolate tan, you can get dark pigment spots all over the body, which will take a very long time to remove.
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Is it possible to sunbathe with a tattoo?
Today, a tattoo is not something special. It is a kind of cosmetic procedure, during which a pattern or design is knocked out on the body. But after it, time is needed for tissue healing. The question of whether it is possible to sunbathe with a tattoo in the sun is relevant for all tattoo lovers.
Despite the fact that in the summer you really want to show off your new tattoos, you should not forget that the sun's rays have a detrimental effect on them, especially on fresh ones. Visiting a solarium, swimming in sea water, going to a bathhouse or sauna is prohibited. Ultraviolet light destroys pigment cells, so tattoo colors quickly fade.
Sunbathing with a tattoo is possible if the skin has healed, that is, 3-4 months after the procedure. Let's look at the main recommendations that will help you preserve the tattoo and get a beautiful summer shade:
- When going out in the sun, you should apply sunscreen. The higher the SPF level, the better. The cream should be reapplied after each swim.
- Sunbathing procedures can only be carried out during safe times, that is, before 11:00 am and after 4:00 pm.
- After resting, you should wash yourself thoroughly with fresh water and treat your body with moisturizing creams.
In addition to the above recommendations, do not forget about maintaining water balance. Due to the heat, active sweating occurs, and the skin dries out, so it is necessary to provide it with a sufficient level of moisture.
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Is it possible to sunbathe with moles?
Many owners of nevi who are seriously concerned about their health are concerned about whether it is possible to sunbathe with moles in the sun. It is almost impossible to give a clear answer, since nevi are different. But in any case, an excess of UV does not bring any benefit.
- Birthmarks are skin abnormalities. They contain a large amount of melanin, which gives them a brown tint.
- They can be of different shapes and sizes. The safest are small flat pigment spots. But convex and deformed ones are a cause for concern.
- As a rule, they do not cause harm in a calm state. But the slightest damage to them can lead to serious complications, including the development of melanoma.
Sun rays affect the epidermis and provoke active production of melanin, which is what causes a tan. Additional production of this pigment in moles can lead to their accelerated growth and deformation. In order for summer vacation to be safe, you should adhere to the following rules:
- You should not be in direct sunlight without sunscreen, which should be applied especially carefully to nevi.
- Sunbathe in the morning and evening. If you are in the heat at lunchtime, wear closed but light clothing. If there are formations on the face, they should be covered with a cap with a wide visor or a hat.
- Large and convex moles can be covered with a plaster.
During sunbathing, moles should be carefully monitored. If they become deformed (change in shape or size), you should immediately consult an oncologist.
Is it possible to sunbathe if you have a lipoma?
Lipoma is a benign skin disease that develops from adipose tissue. Its appearance indicates systemic disorders in the body. It is a cosmetic defect, can develop in any person and does not affect the general condition of the body. That is, the answer to the question of whether it is possible to sunbathe in the sun with a lipoma is unambiguous - yes, moderate exposure to solar radiation is not only allowed, but also beneficial for the body.
Despite the fact that lipoma does not degenerate into malignant tumors, its structure predisposes to necrotic and infectious complications. Protective agents should be carefully applied to such formations and their trauma should be avoided. If the lipoma is large, then it is necessary to consult a surgeon and remove it. In this case, summer vacation is possible only after the wound has completely healed.
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Is it possible to sunbathe if you have urticaria?
An allergic disease in the form of a small skin rash is urticaria. It can develop due to many reasons, one of which is intolerance to sunlight.
Photodermatitis causes severe itching and burning, hyperemic areas, blisters and red spots appear on the body. Most often, people with Celtic skin type face this problem. Their skin does not accept tanning, instead, burns and redness appear.
Since the disease worsens in the summer, the question of whether it is possible to sunbathe with urticaria in the sun is very relevant.
- In this case, prolonged stay on the beach is contraindicated.
- To protect yourself from harmful ultraviolet rays, you should regularly apply sunscreen.
- It is better to sunbathe in the evening, when solar activity is reduced.
- During the day, it is better to wear light, lightweight clothing that covers the body and is made from natural fabrics.
To eliminate sun-induced hives, you should consult a doctor and undergo comprehensive medical treatment.
Why don't scars tan in the sun?
Surely many have wondered why scars do not tan in the sun. This is due to the fact that scar tissue consists entirely of connective tissue, which lacks pigment cells. After exposure to the sun, such areas remain white, creating a contrast with tanned skin.
If the scar is less than a year old and is from abdominal surgery or serious damage, then sunbathing is contraindicated. Since the scar consists of collagen, and ultraviolet rays provoke its increased production, this can lead to an increase in the size of the scar and its hypertrophy. Medicine knows of cases when post-burn scars are hyperpigmented, that is, they darken greatly from sun exposure. Also, do not forget that the sun is very traumatic for still fresh injuries.
If there are old scars on the skin, they should still be protected from ultraviolet radiation. To do this, the scar should be treated with special creams and do not sunbathe from 12:00 to 16:00, that is, avoid increased solar activity.
Do stretch marks tan in the sun?
Damage to elastin and collagen microfibers causes subcutaneous ruptures, or stretch marks. Women most often face this problem. Stretch marks appear during rapid weight loss or gain, during pregnancy, and during hormonal imbalances. The body turns into a kind of canvas with red stripes. If skin ruptures are left untreated, they will gradually begin to turn white, turning into scars.
Many owners of this problem are interested in the question of whether stretch marks tan in the sun. They do not regenerate, and they do not have melanin, so tanning is impossible. Due to prolonged exposure to heat, they can turn red and cause inflammation. Stretch marks, like scars, should be protected from UV radiation with the help of cosmetics. With timely treatment (laser resurfacing, mesotherapy, microdermabrasion), new skin is formed in place of stretch marks, and its even tanning becomes possible.
Is it possible to sunbathe if you have varicose veins?
An unpleasant disease that occurs in both men and women and is not only a cosmetic defect, but also a serious threat to health is varicose veins. Many people with this problem try to disguise it by sunbathing, without finding out whether it is possible to sunbathe in the sun with varicose veins.
The danger for varicose veins is not the sun's rays, but the overheating that they provoke. Increased thermal exposure reduces the tone of the venous network and increases its permeability. This causes swelling. That is, for people with any stage of varicose veins, tanning and overheating (baths, saunas) are dangerous.
Prolonged exposure to heat can cause the following complications:
- Swelling of the lower extremities.
- Cramps.
- Formation of trophic ulcers due to disruption of tissue nutrition above the veins.
- The appearance of blood clots.
- Inflammation of the venous wall.
- Venous congestion and overstretching of veins.
- Proliferation of the vascular network.
Circulatory disorders in varicose veins can be different. The following stages of the disease are distinguished:
- Compensation – small spider veins and darkening of the veins appear. Frequent heaviness and swelling of the legs are possible.
- Subcompensation – characteristic pigmentation and protruding veins appear. In a state of rest, cramps and paresthesia may occur, and pain sensations are increasing.
- Decompensation – dark pigment spots on the body, veins are clearly visible. Pain, swelling and itching often occur. Trophic ulcers may form.
In the early stages of the disease, sunbathing is allowed. But with more severe symptoms of varicose veins, summer vacations are contraindicated. Thermal exposure can aggravate an already painful condition. In any case, before preparing for the beach season, people with venous varicose veins should take a course of venotonics (Venarus, Detralex, Phlebodia) to increase the tone and elasticity of the venous network. This will allow you to survive the hot season without complications.
It is also worth remembering that the pathological condition progresses with dehydration. The blood becomes thick and viscous, its flow rate slows down, venous congestion and blood clots form. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain water balance, especially in summer.
Caution should be taken after sclerotherapy or varicose vein removal surgery. Sunbathing is possible only after the scars have completely healed and the hematomas have resolved. As a rule, the recovery period takes up to six months. Otherwise, the disease may reoccur. Also, do not forget about sunscreen cosmetics, which will protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV.