The primary factor that turns skin tan is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
When your skin is exposed to UV rays, it triggers the production of melanin, a pigment that gives skin its color. Melanin acts as a natural sunscreen, absorbing UV radiation to protect the deeper layers of your skin from damage.
The more UV radiation your skin is exposed to, the more melanin it produces, resulting in a tan. This is the body's natural defense mechanism against potential sun damage.
Factors Influencing Tanning:
- Skin Type: People with naturally darker skin tones tend to tan more easily than those with lighter skin tones.
- Time of Day: UV radiation is strongest between 10 am and 4 pm.
- Location: The intensity of UV radiation varies based on geographical location and altitude.
- Duration of Exposure: The longer you're exposed to the sun, the more likely you are to tan.
- Sun Protection: Using sunscreen helps to block UV radiation and reduce tanning.
Other Factors:
While UV radiation is the primary driver of tanning, other factors can influence the process, such as:
- Genetics: Your genes play a role in how your skin responds to UV radiation.
- Age: As you age, your skin becomes less efficient at producing melanin.
- Medications: Certain medications can make your skin more sensitive to UV radiation.
