Every summer, the same phenomenon occurs: after a few days in the sun, your skin becomes darker. Some people seek this golden glow, while others avoid it. But in any case, this tanning is your body's response. Contrary to what one might think, it's not just an aesthetic effect, but a genuine defense mechanism.
Illustration image Unsplash
When you expose yourself to the sun, your skin receives ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays are invisible to the naked eye, but they penetrate your skin layers. In response, your body produces a pigment called melanin, which is responsible for skin darkening. The more you're exposed, the more melanin your skin produces, giving you that tanned complexion.
But why does the body do this? Simply to protect your cells. Melanin acts as a sort of natural shield: it absorbs some of the UV rays before they can damage your skin cells' DNA. So it's a useful biological reaction, but not an infallible one.
If you expose yourself for too long or without protection, UV rays can still cause damage. They can lead to sunburns, accelerate skin aging, and in the long term, increase the risk of skin cancer. Tanning is therefore a sign that your skin has been damaged, not a sign of good health.
Skin type also plays an important role. Some people tan very easily, while others burn and hardly tan at all. This depends on the amount and type of melanin naturally produced. That's why fair-skinned people need to take extra precautions.
So you tan because your skin is trying to protect itself from the sun. It's a natural reaction, but that doesn't mean it's safe. Protecting yourself with sunscreen, clothing, or staying in the shade remains essential, even if you tan easily. Tanning is a warning signal, not a reward.