Tanning Safety & Protection: How to Enjoy the Sun Responsibly
Jul 19, 2023
For decades, a bronzed glow has been synonymous with health, beauty, and summer holidays. From glossy magazine covers to beachside selfies, tanned skin has long been celebrated as a desirable aesthetic. But behind this sun-kissed appearance lies a complex physiological reaction and a significant public health concern. At Juillet Juillet, we’re committed to shifting the conversation around tanning. Our mission: helping you enjoy the sun safely, without compromising your skin’s long-term health.
What really happens when you tan?
Tanning is not your skin becoming healthier, it’s your skin under stress. When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, whether from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds, the body responds by triggering melanocytes, the cells responsible for melanin production. Melanin acts as a natural defense, absorbing and scattering UV rays to protect deeper layers of the skin. The visible result? A darker complexion.
But this process is essentially your body’s emergency response. The increase in melanin is a sign of cellular damage, not enhanced resilience. Scientific research shows that even a “base tan” offers protection equivalent to only SPF 3 or 4; far from the recommended SPF 30 or higher. In other words, every tan is a scar at the microscopic level.
Weighing the risks: what tanning does to your skin
While a bit of sun may stimulate vitamin D production, the risks of tanning outweigh the benefits. Excessive or repeated UV exposure can cause serious consequences, including sunburn, premature aging, eye damage, and increased risk of skin cancer.
Sunburn is the most immediate and visible damage. Redness, pain, and peeling are signs that skin cells have been harmed. Repeated sunburns, especially in childhood, are a major risk factor for melanoma later in life.
Long-term UV exposure accelerates the aging process. Wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots often develop earlier in individuals who tan regularly. Collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for youthful skin, break down under UV stress.
More seriously, UV radiation is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen. It’s directly linked to skin cancers like melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. And these aren’t rare cases: skin cancer remains the most common form of cancer worldwide.
How to protect your skin without skipping the sunshine
The good news? You don’t have to avoid the outdoors to protect your skin. With smart, proactive habits and the right equipment, you can safely enjoy your time in the sun. At the heart of that strategy lies anti-UV clothing and UPF 50+ swimwear, which form a physical barrier between your skin and harmful rays.
Unlike sunscreen, which must be reapplied every two hours, UPF 50+ clothing maintains its protection as long as you’re wearing it. Our Juillet Juillet collection combines advanced sun protection with elegant, timeless design, offering you the best of both worlds.
Start by covering commonly exposed areas. A long-sleeved swimsuit, swim leggings, or rash guards offer exceptional protection for the torso, arms, and thighs. Complement that with wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses to protect sensitive zones like the face and eyes.
Even when wearing anti-UV swimwear, remember to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen on any exposed skin. Choose SPF 30 or higher, and make sure it’s water-resistant and reef-safe. Apply 15–20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Need guidance? Read our guide: How to choose your anti-UV swimsuits
Children and tanning: extra care for delicate skin
Children’s skin is more vulnerable to UV damage. The thinner epidermis and less melanin in kids make them more prone to burns and long-term complications. That’s why sun safety should be a family priority—and it starts with habit formation from a young age.
Dress children in UPF 50+ swimsuits, like the ones available in our baby and kids collections. These suits offer full coverage and are made from quick-drying, breathable fabrics that keep children comfortable and protected.
Encourage the use of hats and sunglasses from the earliest age. Keep them in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest. And of course, apply a mineral-based SPF 50 sunscreen, taking care to cover ears, the back of the neck, and tops of the feet—spots parents often miss.
Show children the importance of protection by leading by example. When they see you wearing UPF clothing, applying sunscreen consistently, and seeking shade, these behaviors become normal and non-negotiable.
Looking for more advice? Explore our complete family beach day essentials guide
What about tanning beds?
If the sun is risky, tanning beds are worse. These machines emit concentrated UV radiation, often stronger than midday sun. Studies link tanning bed use to a dramatic increase in melanoma risk, especially when usage begins before age 30.
Despite marketing claims, no tanning bed is safe. The World Health Organization recommends avoiding them altogether, particularly for adolescents and young adults. If a bronzed look is your goal, opt for safer alternatives like self-tanning lotions or sprays, which offer aesthetic results without UV exposure.
Rethinking the idea of a "healthy glow"
Part of sun safety is cultural. The idea that tan skin is the picture of health is deeply rooted, but needs re-evaluation. True skin health is about balance: enjoying the outdoors while minimizing cumulative UV exposure. Healthy skin is hydrated, protected, and nourished, not necessarily darker.
Embracing anti-UV swimwear and sun-safe habits is a way of valuing long-term well-being. It means caring for your future self, while still enjoying beautiful days outside with confidence.
Final thoughts: the elegance of prevention
You don’t have to choose between style and safety. With Juillet Juillet, UPF 50+ swimsuits blend aesthetic appeal with science-backed protection. We believe that prevention is the most elegant form of care and that protecting your skin should be as effortless as slipping on your favorite swimsuit.
Whether you're heading to the beach, the mountains, or simply spending a sunny afternoon in your garden, make sun safety part of your daily routine. And remember: it’s never too late to start protecting your skin.
Further reading
Protect your skin, preserve your glow
Ready to tan safely and stylishly? Explore our UPF 50+ swimwear collection for women, babies, and kids. Our anti-UV designs are made for families who want to look good, feel confident, and stay protected under the sun
