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Skin tanning is a condition where the skin color is darkened. There are several things that cause skin tanning. However, most of the studies link skin tanning with ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or from artificial sources. Most of the people who get skin tanning from the sun are involved in the activity of sunbathing.
In this article, we are going to talk about the effects of direct exposure to the sunlight and other common causes of skin tanning.
7 Common Causes of Skin Tanning
The below mentioned seven are the most common causes of skin tanning.
1. Excessive exposure to UV rays
Sunlight is very beneficial to the human body. There are several studies that link sunlight with the production of vitamin D. What this means is that moderate exposure to the sunlight is beneficial to your body.
However, excessive exposure to the sunlight has excessive health effects. Some of the main side effects of direct exposure to sunlight include:
- Increased risk of skin cancer
- Sunburn
It can also lead to a depressed immune system functions and accelerated aging of the skin. You also need to bear in mind that some people tan more than others. It may be a reason for different skin colors or even based on individual genetics.
2. Overproduction of melanin
When you are exposed to direct sunlight, the body has to produce enough melanin to prevent the skin. As the skin becomes more damaged, it produces more melanin to offer the required protection. The extra melanin produced causes the skin to darken in some people.
3. UVA and UVB penetration
UVA and UVB radiation reach our sun-exposed skin and can affect the skin in a number of ways. When the UVA strikes out bodies, they immediately engage the melanocytes which later activate the release of melanin. As I had already stated, overproduction of melanin can make the skin to tan.
4. Premature aging
Premature aging can also impact on the skin color. Premature aging is closely linked to improper skin care, poor nutrition and prolonged exposure to the sun. Premature aging has several symptoms which include the appearance of fine lines and skin tanning.
5. Improper skin care
If you don’t take good care of your skin, then there are chances that your skins will darken. It may also cause skin tanning. What this means is that you should start by applying sunscreen whenever you get out of the home. You also have to wash your face several times a day to avoid skin tan.
6. Poor nutrition
This is another very common cause of skin tanning. Poor dieting can be a leading factor to overproduction of melanin. Overproduction of melanin to protect the skin can end up making your skin to darken or even tan.
7. Activities of white blood cells
Once there are problems with your skin, the white blood cells will respond to protect your skin. White blood cells will respond to remove the damaged skins. In this process, your skin may darken, itch or peel. The damaged skin cells are likely to send signals throughout the body which is later translated as a painful burning sensation by the brain.
Final Statement!
I hope you have liked reading the article and for sure learned something new. Keep these points in mind and your skin will never get tanned.
About The Author:
Usama Azam is a medical student and he loves to write on health, medical and skin care related topics. His motto is, health is wealth.
