Coconut oil is a great ingredient when it comes to skincare. It is used widely in various skin and hair products all over the world. Its positive benefits apply to its consumption as well. In many parts of the world, including India, coconut oil is used as the staple cooking oil. This is due to its many health benefits. Today, however, we will evaluate its pros and cons for the purpose of tanning.
Why do people choose tanning as a skin darkening option?
Most common among those with pale and light skin, tanning is a way to bring colour to the skin by charging its melanin production. People like the glow that comes with a slight tan. It brings life into the skin by providing more colour. But, it comes with its own complications.
The complication of tanning.
Now tanning involves exposure to the sun, and we all know what that means. UV rays! UV rays can cause a host of problems like premature ageing, skin cancer, sunburn, spots and more. The biggest downside of tanning is the risk of UV exposure that can cause health issues.
The pros and cons of tanning with coconut oil.
Pros
- Coconut oil can speed up the process of tanning. This means that you will have to expose yourself to the sun for a shorter amount of time.
2. While tanning, the hydration that coconut oil provides ensures that your skin is well moisturised during the process. This avoids the dryness caused by the sun.
3. During the process of tanning, your skin can be exposed to bacteria and fungus. Coconut oil has antimicrobial and antifungal properties that reduce the risk of any infection.
Cons
- Coconut oil has very healing properties for the skin, but it does not provide enough sun protection required for tanning. It blocks minimal UV rays.
2. Coconut oil has less sun protection properties and is equivalent to only SPF 4.
3. You get exposed to UV rays, and this can cause ageing, skin cancer and sunburn.
4. It has to be used along with proper SPF and protective clothing; otherwise, you risk more damage.
So what is the verdict?
While coconut oil may have many beneficial qualities, we do not recommend that you use it for tanning as protection from the harmful effects of UV rays should be your topmost priority. While you might tan quicker, are you willing to take the risk of sunburn, ageing of your skin and possibly even cancer? Our answer would be no.
Disclaimer
The natural remedies mentioned in the blog are the widely popular ones. However, it is in no way a substitute for medical advice, treatment or diagnosis. Avoid using these if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies.
Before trying any natural remedy, always test a small quantity on your skin to check for any adverse reactions or allergy to any particular ingredient. Then, in case of an emergency or any reaction, immediately connect with a doctor who can offer the proper treatment.
The silver lining
Coconut oil is not all bad, maybe just for tanning. There are many other safe ways in which you can use it for your skin. Always prioritise the health of your skin over its cosmetic appearance. Your skin is a special part of your body!
FAQ’s
1. What are the ways in which you can tan your skin?
Tanning methods include using a tanning product or getting a spray tan, using a tanning bed, tanning by lying in the sun. We do not, however, recommend any of them.
2. What do I use to tan my skin.
The best recommendation for your skin can be given to you by a dermatologist. If you choose to get a tan, then do it under the careful supervision of a doctor.
3. How do I use coconut oil for tanning my skin?
We do not recommend using coconut oil for tanning. Kindly go through the blog above to understand why.
4. How else can I use coconut oil for my skin?
Coconut oil can be applied to the skin for its moisturising properties. However, ensure that you do a patch test first to rule out possible allergic reaction before applying any product.
