What is tanning?

Most of us experience sunbathing as something very pleasant. The warmth and relaxation gives us a sense of well-being. But what is actually happening in the skin?

The rays of the sun strike melanin pigments in the epidermis. These are darkened by the UVA rays in the light. The melanin pigments are formed by special cells lying deeper in the skin structure called melanocytes and then move with the surrounding cells to the surface. The darkened pigments absorb part of the sun’s rays and thus protect the deeper skin layers.

The UVB range of the sun’s rays penetrates deeper into the skin and acts on the melanocytes themselves. These are then stimulated to form more pigments: thus creating the basis for a good tan.

At the same time, the UVB rays cause the horny layer (the callus) to thicken. This thicker layer contributes towards protecting the skin.