Lynda Valdez, RNC, MSN, FNP

It is common knowledge that applying sunscreen is a step we should take before sun exposure. However, achieving a tan, that beautiful golden tan that makes our legs look fantastic in shorts and swimsuits, that beautiful sun-kissed face that glows, is something we still long for.  So, we try to be good.  We slather on sunblock, but then lay in the sun for hours because we still want that tan. 

So, why not tan? There is the risk of cancer but, we tell ourselves, we’re not going to get that, at least not anytime soon. What is a tan anyway?   

We have cells in our skin called melanocytes.  The job of the melanocyte is to protect the fibroblasts and keratinocytes, and the melanocyte does this by multiplying and enlarging to cover and protect these cells.  This protection gives us the tan we desire. However, over time, the melanoctye becomes exhausted from the overstimulation.  The melanocyte can no longer adequately protect the fibroblasts and kerotinocytes from the sun, and they begin to be damaged as well.   The exhausted melanocyte has now left you with brown spots and uneven skin tones rather than that lovely tan you loved so much.  

The fibroblast is also affected.  It is unable to produce collagen and elastin effectively.  Without new collagen fibers, the skin begins to sag.  We begin to notice fine lines forming under and around our eyes. 

 When the keratinocyte is damaged, the very top layer of the skin thickens. The keratinocte loses its normal shape and becomes irregular.   This result is thick, rough, course skin.  We have lost that youthful glow to thick, rough skin with brown spots! 

Still want that tan?  Don’t believe it will happen to you?  Think it will only happen when you are old, and who cares by then anyway?  In my experience, you will be old a lot longer than you are young. If you are still a tanner, new habits need to start now and changes need to be made.

The first step is to fall out of love with tanning.  We know that tanning sets off endorphins, therefore making you feel good.  You get addicted, but that addiction will make you look very old and wrinkled before your time.  

Bottom line: wear waterproof sunscreen, one that blocks both UVA (aging rays) and UVB (burning rays).  Apply it an hour before going in the sun.  Reapply every two hours unless you have been sweating or have gotten wet, and then do it more often.  If you are going to be in the sun for awhile, sunscreen is not enough.  Wear a hat, and sit under an umbrella at the pool or beach. 

Self tanners are an effective alternative to damaging your skin from the sun, and still giving your skin a glow.  There are excellent self tanners available, and we offer a fantastic spray tan at Daireds.  When you are in your 40s, you will be glad you chose to self tan over the sun. 

A frequent request I get from clients is to fix the tiny lines under the eyes, which are usually the result of sun damage. Unfortunately, neither Botox or dermal fillers can improve this area. Surgery or the Fraxel re:pair laser are effective, but if you are not ready for that, consider Obagi.  Obagi is a medical grade skin care program that “heals” that pesky melanoctye.  It evens out the skin tone and starts to slowly peel away the years on your face.  After about six to eight weeks, if your skin is not where you want it to be, we can apply a Blue Peel.  Next to surgery or laser, it is the best thing to rejuvenate your skin and address those fine lines.

For more information about the treatments mentioned above, call The Med Spa at Daireds at 817-465-9797 to schedule a consultation.