What’s It to Me?
What Happens to Your Skin When You Tan

When sunlight strikes the skin, UVA and UVB radiation trigger the tanning response. This is a three stage sequence of protective reactions which results in the darkening of the skin.

Stage I

Melanin granules close to the surface of the skin are oxidized by UVA radiation and become darker.

Animated image of UVA rays penetrating through the skin to the cells

 

Stage II

The UVA radiation triggers a change in melanocyte activity.

Melanocytes deeper in the epidermis are stimulated to produce new melanin granules. These new granules are transferred to keratinocytes in the upper cell layers of the skin. These granules become positioned in the outer portions of the cells above the cell nuclei, thus providing additional protection.

Animated graphic showing the growth of new melanin granuals in the melanocutes

Stage III

The third stage of the sequence forms additional protection but indicates damage has already be done.

The melanocytes divide producing more melanin granule producing cells. The production of more cells leads to additional melanin granule production. This stage occurs 5 to 7 days after initial exposure to the UVA.

Animated image showing the melanocytes swelling and splitting

 

Next: Burn Facts

Hey, it’s Cool in the Shade.
Protect your skin. Protect yourself.

 

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