Sun tanning

Sun tanning is the darkening of the skin, especially of fair-skinned individuals, in response to exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunshine (or a sunbed).

Related Topics:
Ultraviolet radiation - Sunshine - Sunbed

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The darkening of the skin is caused by an increased release of the pigment melanin into the skin's cells. This pigment is produced by cells called melanocytes, and protects the body by absorbing harmful solar radiation.

Related Topics:
Melanin - Melanocyte

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A suntan has often been seen as attractive, though this is variable and susceptible to the whims of fashion. During much of the 18th and 19th centuries, fair, freckleless skin was seen as attractive, especially in women.

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Today, the wish of some to look well-tanned, combined with the modern concern about overexposure to the sun, (which has been linked to melanoma) has led to the production of products that give the appearance of a suntan without any exposure to the sun. (See sunless tanning.)

Related Topics:
Melanoma - Sunless tanning

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A study by a Dr. Anthony Liguori and others, published in the July 2004 issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Part 1, suggests that indoor sun tanning may be addictive. The UV content of the sun's rays stimulate the production of endorphins, resulting in a natural "high".

Related Topics:
Anthony Liguori - Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology - Endorphin

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Studies undertaken by George Washington University and Sydney University suggest that the UVB component of sunlight damages the skin.

Related Topics:
George Washington University - Sydney University

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To avoid sunburn, sunscreen, tanning oil or creme are used.

Related Topics:
Sunburn - Sunscreen

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