How to Avoid Beach Tan Lines

When you go to the beach, your mind is more focused on having fun with friends and family than on preventing the development of unsightly tan lines. Although everyone wants that natural, glowing beach tan, no one likes inappropriate lines and splotches across their body. Luckily, there are several steps you can take before you head over as well as really quick things you can do while you're there to avoid tan lines.

Start by exfoliating and removing any unwanted hair. The exfoliation process removes dead skin and helps you tan more effectively. Hair can prevent the sun's rays from reaching your skin, causing unevenness and preventing you from getting a quick beach tan. Next, wear a swimsuit with straps that can easily be changed around. This will enable you to re-tie your straps in different ways and shapes, giving you even exposure. An even better idea is to buy a swimsuit made of special fabric that allows UV light to go through. This will give you an even tan but remember to apply sunscreen to areas that won't be receiving direct sunlight as well.

If you aren't tanned at all, chances are that your skin will respond immediately to the sun and begin developing melatonin within 30 minutes of sun exposure. Start with a high SPF sunscreen to avoid burning. This may cause immediate tan lines but once you've established your base tan, switch to a lower SPF, between 6-15 SPF, in order to even out your skin and get a more permanent tan. Apply sunscreen every 30 minutes and remember to keep switching up your bikini straps during this process.

Luckily, summer fashions make staying tan-line free at the beach more fun. Large, floppy brimmed hats and sunglasses can help you look chic and sophisticated while doing their part to prevent tan lines across your neck, chest, and shoulders. Make sure that your face doesn't get direct sunlight. This will keep you from getting that weird "goggle tan line" effect around your cheeks and forehead.

Fashion can also sometimes be the culprit for fashion faux-pas. Tie up flip flops and beach shoes may be in style but can give you weird, criss-cross tan lines across your legs and feet. Avoid wearing flip flops when you're tanning and, if possible, on the sand altogether. Also avoid wearing jewelry.

The beach is meant to be enjoyed and taking these precautions can help you relax about being out in the sun.