Every summer, the same ritual is repeated: crowded beaches, sun-kissed bodies, and sunscreen left forgotten at the bottom of bags. In search of a fast tan, many people choose to forego sun protection entirely, under the impression that achieving a golden tone is easier without barriers. However, what may seem like a harmless aesthetic choice can lead to consequences that reveal themselves only over time.<\/p>\n
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No to the cream.<\/strong> A quick scroll through social networks reveals videos promoting the idea of not using sunscreen<\/a>. From self-proclaimed “experts<\/a>” to anonymous users<\/a>, many share their “tricks” for achieving a tan faster, often neglecting to mention the importance of sunscreens.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n False myth.<\/strong> This practice is tied to a long-held belief that sunscreen prevents tanning. Many still equate the \u201cnatural bronzed\u201d look with health and beauty. This aesthetic desire often overshadows the need for prevention, and the associated risks remain unnoticed. Dr. Jos\u00e9 Mar\u00eda Ricart, dermatologist and medical director of the Ricart Medical Institute (IMR), explains: “Many people still believe in the idea of \u200b\u200b’healthy tan’, when it is actually a sign of skin damage.”<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The data does not lie.<\/strong> A study accessed by PMFarma, conducted by Laboratories Pierre Fabre, unveils a disconcerting reality: 67% of Spaniards use sunscreen solely to avoid burns, not as a daily health habit. The report, which evaluated over 50,000 individuals (4,000 from Spain), evidenced that only 39.7% reapply sunscreen every two hours on sunny days. This misuse stems from forgetfulness (32%), ignorance (11%), and a concerning lack of belief in efficacy (10%).<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Another insightful finding from the SAFE study, which the Spanish Institute of Health Trainers reviewed, shows that 79% of adults and 74% of Spanish children are exposed to the sun during peak radiation hours, namely 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The problem beyond skin.<\/strong> Taking sun exposure without proper protection is not a mere oversight; it accelerates skin aging and amplifies the risk of skin cancer. Dr. Ricart emphasizes the importance of understanding two types of ultraviolet radiation that could harm us. UVB rays, prevalent during summer, cause solar burns and damage DNA. Conversely, UVA rays, which persist year-round, even on cloudy days, penetrate deeply and are responsible for premature aging.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n “The tan is merely a defensive response of the body. It is its way of signaling: ‘I am being damaged.’ For those who doubt this, I suggest comparing the skin on the face with that of the buttocks, an area seldom exposed to the sun: without spots, wrinkles, or aging,” Dr. Ricart advises.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Take it to the extreme.<\/strong> Some resort to unusual strategies to achieve that coveted golden hue. One peculiar example is the age-old myth that eating carrots can enhance tanning. Although beta-carotene found in these vegetables may impart an orange tint to the skin, this effect neither replaces nor offers protection against sun damage.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Experts caution that this leads to superficial coloration rather than a genuine tan. Overindulgence in carrot consumption may result in a condition known as carotenodermia, manifesting as an unnatural orange pigmentation that strays far from summer aesthetics.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Frequent errors.<\/strong> Even those who attempt to protect themselves often make mistakes that drastically reduce sunscreen effectiveness. Dr. Ricart highlights several common blunders, such as failing to apply sunscreen daily, not applying it in advance (20 to 30 minutes before going outside), neglecting to reapply after swimming, using insufficient quantities, and reusing expired creams from previous summers.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Prevention with technology.<\/strong> To raise awareness of these risks, technology has been integrated into preventive strategies. One innovative approach is MySun Experience<\/a>, a digital tool created by Eau Thermale Av\u00e8ne in collaboration with the artificial intelligence firm Data Ora. This simulator allows users to visualize how their skin may age in the next 15 years based on their sun protection habits.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Another model is possible.<\/strong> The aesthetic pressure to achieve a tan remains daunting. Golden bodies still dominate advertising, social media, and beauty standards. However, the medical message is unequivocal: every unprotected sun exposure constitutes cumulative damage to the skin. This damage, without a doubt, becomes evident over time.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n