There Is No Such Thing as a Healthy Tan: The Truth About Tanning, Skin Cancer, and Sunscreen
Introduction
Tanning is often glamorised as a sign of health or vitality, but the reality is starkly different: there is no such thing as a “healthy tan.” At Karwal Aesthetics, we are committed to providing honest, evidence-based guidance to help you protect your skin and preserve your natural beauty for years to come.
What Happens When You Tan?
When your skin darkens in response to sun exposure, it’s not a sign of health—it’s a sign of injury. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds damages the DNA in your skin cells, triggering increased melanin production as a defensive response. This is what causes a tan, but it’s also what increases your risk of long-term skin damage and serious health consequences.
Key Facts:
UVA rays penetrate deeply, accelerating skin aging and causing DNA damage.
UVB rays are the main cause of sunburn and direct DNA mutations.
Both types increase your risk of skin cancer, even if you don’t burn.
Tanning and Skin Cancer: The Scientific Link
Skin Cancer in the UK
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK.
Over 16,000 new cases of melanoma are diagnosed every year (Cancer Research UK, 2024).
Around 86% of melanomas are linked to UV exposure.
Sunbeds: A Clear Danger
The World Health Organisation classifies sunbeds as Group 1 carcinogens (the highest risk category).
Using sunbeds before age 35 increases your risk of melanoma by 59%.
“Base Tan” Myths
A so-called “base tan” offers negligible protection—equivalent to an SPF of just 2–4. It does not prevent skin damage or lower your risk of skin cancer.
Why Sunscreen Is Essential
The Role of Sunscreen
Broad-spectrum sunscreen defends your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, reducing the risk of DNA mutations, premature aging, and skin cancer. Consistent use is proven to significantly lower your risk of developing melanoma and other skin cancers.
Why We Recommend SPF 50 (or Higher)
At Karwal Aesthetics, we strongly encourage all clients to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 50, every day—even when it’s cloudy or you’re mostly indoors. Here’s why:
SPF 50 blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays, offering superior protection compared to lower SPFs.
Studies show higher SPF provides better real-world protection, especially since most people under-apply sunscreen (Skin Cancer Foundation, 2023).
SPF 50 is especially important for those with fair skin, a history of sunburn, or increased skin cancer risk.
How to Use Sunscreen Effectively
Apply generously: Use about a shot glass (30ml) for your whole body.
Reapply every 2 hours, and after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying.
Choose “broad spectrum” to ensure UVA and UVB protection.
Don’t forget often-missed spots: ears, neck, lips, and the tops of feet.
Additional Sun Protection Tips
Seek shade between 11am and 3pm.
Wear protective clothing: hats, sunglasses, and UPF-rated garments.
Avoid tanning beds and intentional tanning.
Safe Alternatives to Tanning
If you love the look of a tan, consider sunless self-tanning products. They provide the appearance of bronzed skin without UV exposure or increased cancer risk. Remember: self-tanners do not provide sun protection—always use SPF 50 alongside them.
Key Takeaways
A tan is visible skin damage, not a sign of health.
UV exposure—natural or artificial—dramatically increases your risk of skin cancer and accelerates skin aging.
Sunscreen is your best daily defence. We recommend at least SPF 50, applied generously and regularly.
There is no safe way to tan using UV exposure.
Our Philosophy
At Karwal Aesthetics, we believe in quality over quantity, a personalised approach, and the long-term health of your skin. Protecting your natural beauty starts with sun safety. If you have concerns about sun damage, pigmentation, or want advice on the best skincare for your needs, we’re here to help.
References & Further Reading
Skin Cancer Foundation. “The Dangers of Tanning.” skincancer.org
Cancer Research UK. “Skin Cancer Statistics.” cancerresearchuk.org
British Association of Dermatologists. “Sun Protection Advice.” bad.org.uk
International Agency for Research on Cancer. “Sunbeds and UV Radiation.” (2009)
Green, A.C., et al. “Reduced Melanoma After Regular Sunscreen Use: Randomised Trial Follow-Up.” J Clin Oncol. 2011.
