Can You Still Tan While Swimming?
Whether it’s summertime or the colder months, we are still treated to some gorgeous sun down here in the good ole Republic of South Africa.
With any sun exposure, however, comes the importance of using sunscreen. But one of the areas that confuse some is whether or not it’s needed if you’re in the water, and if so, what sunscreen to use.
This article will answer the question, explain the importance of sun protection, and highlight some waterproof tanning products.
Can you still tan through water?
The answer is yes, but it depends.
UV (ultraviolet) rays get absorbed by the water when sunlight hits the water’s surface, but the water’s depth and clarity can affect how much UV rays penetrate it.
This doesn’t mean that it disappears completely. UV rays get fully absorbed only when it reaches a deeper level. It only means that it is possible to still feel the full effects of UV rays on the water’s surface. So, water does absorb sunlight, but not by much.
On the surface, around 30% of UV rays get absorbed. This leaves a huge percentage of UV rays left to settle in the water. The remaining 70% of UV rays can penetrate your skin whenever you come into contact with water.
As you go deeper, more and more UV rays get absorbed. While it is still possible to get sunburned half a meter deep, it is highly unlikely since more than half of the UV rays have been absorbed.
As such, this all depends on how deep you are in the water. If you are in the shallow parts of a pool or the beach, you’ll still feel the effects of the UV rays. And while this means that you can tan while swimming in the water, it also means you can still get sunburnt.
How to tan while in water
You may be tempted to adjust your tanning strategy to be more aligned with your swimming patterns, but it’s important to remember, that while you may be receiving a little less UV light, it’s difficult to control what parts of your body and how much is exposed to the sun even while swimming.
Remember to follow the pre-tanning regimen (exfoliate, moisturise, sunscreen, etc.) before heading out into any sun. However, keep in mind that other factors can affect how long you get your tan (your skin type, time of the day, etc.).
If you do want to catch some rays, one way of doing so is staying afloat in a swimming pool, and using sunlight reflection as a way to tan faster.
Sunlight reflection
There is another option to tan while within a body of water, and it involves lying next to it. This can be done in your local swimming pool or if you have one in your house.
UV rays get reflected from the water’s surface and onto your skin. Reflected UV rays are also intensified, making you tan quicker and more effectively.
However, it also makes it more dangerous. This method has more risks due to the higher intensity of UV rays, thanks to the water. So, remember all the precautions before stepping a foot outside!
How to protect from getting a tan
Now knowing that water can actually heighten the sun exposure (or dampen it, depending on where you are in relation to the water), it is a reminder that going for a simple swim can expose you to sun damage. That’s why you put on sunscreen.
Not only does sunscreen protect you from UV rays coming directly from the sun, but it also protects you from the water’s surface.
You might be wondering if sunscreen will be washed off when you head into the water. The answer is yes. Sunscreens aren’t waterproof, so they will wash off over long periods of time.
The best options you can do is to apply sunscreen for a certain time before swimming (around 15 minutes) or to look for water-resistant sunscreen.
While not completely waterproof, water-resistant sunscreens can still stick to the person even after sweat or exposure to water. However, it won’t last for long, so always bring it with you and reapply after every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating.
Other ways to protect yourself
Another way to keep safe and still enjoy the sun is to find shade, obviously. Angling yourself in an area that isn’t completely exposed to sunlight will keep you from burning your skin.
You can also wear something like a sun hat to protect your eyes, lips, and entire face from the scorching sun and its effects. Remember that sun reflection off the water too, as it can reach your face even under a hat, so applying sunscreen to your face and lip balm with SPF is also a way to protect yourself from UV rays.
Self-tanners
Similar to having already tanned before your beach/pool trip, what if you use self-tanners as a way of getting a tan? And is it possible for the effects of the tanner to wash off?
Self-tanners are able to stick and stay strong for about a week, depending on the brand.
When you buy a self-tanner, ensure that it is from a reputable brand, has water-resistant properties, and adapts well to your skin to avoid orange skin.
Follow the important steps like exfoliating, moisturising, and applying the tanner properly. Avoid coming into contact with water for some time, and wear loose clothing so as to not remove the tan from your skin. And if you give it a day or two, and your tan should be good to go for your next summer outing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you tan in any water?
The clearer the water, the higher your chances of getting a tan. This is because clear and clean waters have nothing to obstruct sunlight from penetrating the water’s surface. So, you will have much more difficulty getting a tan if the water is murky or if you are swimming on a cloudy day.
Is tanning in water safer than tanning on dry land?
There is no conducive evidence to say that it is safer, and only a small percentage of UV gets reflected, so the rest remains on the water’s surface. If anything, tanning in water may be a bit more dangerous due to the intensity of UV rays because of water reflection.
Are self-tanners completely water-resistant?
If left to dry and settle, it will stick to your skin regardless of liquid residue. If you want to be cautious, don’t swim for too long. It’s actually better off to swim at the beach, since chlorine from pools can wash it off.
Conclusion
Tanning within the water is another effective method for developing a tan. It is just as effective as tanning on dry land.
However, it also has its dangers. Remember to always prioritise your safety and health, and you will get your desired tan without harmful side effects.