M.D. Many people think a tan looks healthy. Tanning is actually the result of injury. A tan is the skin's response to the damage caused by ultraviolet light from the sun or artificial tanning lights. There is no such thing as a healthy tan. The best way to keep one's skin looking young and healthy is to avoid the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when sunlight is the strongest.
Sunlight is also more intense in the summer, at high altitudes, and near the equator.
When outside, clothing and sunscreen can help protect the skin. A hat is an excellent way to avoid the sun, but it must have a broad rim to cover the face, neck and ears. A baseball cap, which generally shades only the forehead, is not enough. Research shows that most people don't use enough sunscreen to get its full benefit. A generous layer should be applied at least 15 minutes before going outside, and then reapplied after perspiring or swimming.