What is considered the safest way to achieve a tan?

The safest way to achieve a tan is through the use of sunless tanning products or lotions. These products typically contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a safe ingredient that reacts with the amino acids in the skin's surface to produce a tanned appearance without the harmful effects of UV exposure. This method eliminates the risks associated with sunbathing and tanning beds, such as skin damage, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer due to UV radiation.

In contrast, regularly using tanning beds can expose the skin to high levels of UV radiation, increasing the likelihood of skin damage and health risks. Sunbathing, even for short periods, still involves UV exposure, which can harm the skin over time. While wearing SPF lotion while outdoors can help protect the skin from UV damage, it does not necessarily provide a tanned appearance and should not be relied upon for tanning purposes. Thus, using sunless tanning products is the optimal choice for achieving a tanned look safely.