Awkward Tans and Beach Bound Vans: Why You Should Pack the SPF this Break

There are certain events in a girl’s life she’ll never forget. Like the time I tore off my cover-up on the beach in Mexico and a stranger approached me to inquire if I was from Antarctica.  Or what about the time I had crop circles sunburned onto my back for three straight months? Definitely won’t fail to remember that one, either.

If I’ve learned anything in life this far, it’s that those of us who have had no choice but to sport our pale skin on a daily basis are especially prone to hardship. The dread of a wedding invitation requiring you to wear a white dress; that assumption that you didn’t travel anywhere for spring break because you don’t get tan; the blistering pain when the hot shower water splashes against your freshly burned skin. . . . Pale-girl problems.

I used to be so frustrated for being the palest of all my friends lounging around the pool and I would get so mad when people would try to convince me otherwise—“You’re not pale. You’re fair skinned!” my mom would always tell me. Well, like, that’s the same thing, Mom.

photo from dressforsuccess.org

But despite all the annoyances I’ve endured, I’ve only recently come to realize that my  #palegirlproblems are trivial compared to what’s really at stake in terms of our skin. Hence, I’m actually thankful for the harsh reality I’ve had to learn from obtaining one too many awkwardly shaped sunburns.

A tan isn’t worth it.

If you haven’t heard by now, skin cancer can be deadly. According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer accounts for nearly half of all cancers in the United States. And according to the American Academy of Dermatology, on average, one American dies from melanoma every hour. Studies reveal that the main risk factor for cancers of the skin is ultraviolet light (AKA the sun and tanning beds) and avoiding this risk factor alone could prevent more than 2 million cases of skin cancer per year.

So, with spring break beginning in late February (per usual) for all of us Michigan students who are desperate to escape the polar vortex, I encourage you not to overlook the safety of your skin this vacation. Because I’m certain we’re all itching for a dose of vitamin D and a sun-kissed glow, here are a few helpful tips I’ve acquired from years of highs and lows of protecting my own skin:

 1. Wear sunscreen. And reapply it throughout the day.

photo from fitsugar.com

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, daily sunscreen use cuts the incidence of melanoma—the deadliest form of skin cancer—in half. All it takes is a few extra minutes to lather on some lotion before hitting the beach. For my fellow pale ones: I recommend applying your SPF before you put your clothes on, that way you’ll cover more skin and avoid getting random splotches of burns in areas you otherwise would have missed.

2. Avoid wearing crazy shirts or fancy swimsuit tops in the sun.

photo by Jenny Barkan

I got my infamous “crop circle” sunburn from wearing what I thought was a stylish tank top while eating lunch outside for only 30 minutes. After three months of inquiries about the bizarre tan lines occupying my upper back, I didn’t think the shirt was so stylish anymore.

3. Check your skin by doing the ABCDE’s.

photo from Cghmc.com

Be sure to frequently check the moles on your skin by doing these easy ABC’s. If something looks suspicious, see a doctor. Most skin cancers can be treated if caught early.

4. If you must be tan, opt for a tanning lotion or spray tan.

photo from momfabulous.com

Many of my friends agree that Jergens Natural Glow is the best tanning lotion–it’s very subtle and doesn’t leave you looking orange or streaky. If you want something more noticeable, try L’Oreal Sublime Bronze. But be extra cautious when applying so it doesn’t streak. For my pale peers out there: I’d say skip the lotion all together and learn to embrace your paleness. Nobody wants to look at an orange, streaky person.

5. And if you need even more motivation, please check out this video and share it with all the people you care about.

Dear 16 Year Old Me

Click it! And remember to wear your SPF this break!