Tanning Safely: Protecting Your Face with a Towel

There are two types of UV rays: UVA and UVB. The sun gives off UVA rays, while tanning lamps frequently give off both UVA and UVB rays. Both types of UV rays can cause long-term skin damage and potentially lead to skin cancer. However, by using a towel to cover your face while tanning, you will protect your skin and drastically lower your chances of experiencing UV-related skin damage.

Things You'll Need

• Hand towel
• Head band

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Instructions

• 1

  Use a hand towel from your bathroom or kitchen.

  Lie down and place a hand towel over your face, covering it completely. If the towel is too large, fold it in half or fourths first.

• 2

  Keep your towel in place with a headband that wraps completely around your head. Place one side of the headband over the towel at your forehead, and stretch the opposite side of the band so it rests back behind your head. Adjust until the towel feels secure.

• 3

  If you flip over onto your stomach, adjust the towel to cover the side of your face that is now exposed to the light. Do this by sliding your hand under the headband to slightly lift it, then moving the towel across your face. Readjust the headband to secure the towel, if necessary.