Tanning vs Whitening: The pros and cons

If you come from Asia, it is very likely that you’ll do all you can to stay out of the sun to maintain your clear complexion. You might even use a multitude of brightening products and you have an arsenal of sunblock in your dressing table that you apply copiously before you leave the house.

We know we do.

However, on the other side of the world, there is an obsession that goes completely against our Asian beauty beliefs. Here we are taking shelter whenever we can and there go the Westerners seizing the chance to tan and stay out in the sun for as long as possible. In the West, it’s thought that whitening is absurd and the product causes cancer while Asians have the perception that the sun will cause aging and cancer.

So what is truth and what is merely myth?

It’s time to settle this argument about tanning and whitening once and for all. We answer a few of your burning questions.

1) Do whitening products cause cancer?

There are certain components in some whitening products that may cause skin cancer in the long run but it is usually due to excessive amounts of a certain ingredient such as Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA). Most of the whitening products on shelves have undergone stringent testing and approvals before being sold so they are safe to use.

2) Does tanning cause cancer?

A tan is caused by harmful UV rays from the sun which damages skin cells. Too much tanning (indoor or outdoor), can cause skin cancer and premature aging.

3) Why do Asians want to be fair?

It stems from olden times where only the poor went out to till the fields and turn dark from the sun. Being fair symbolises wealth and being a part of the upper echelons of society. That mindset has since stuck. But geographically speaking, we live in a part of the world where we see the sun 99 per cent of the time and we are more susceptible to sun damage thus the need for brightening and anti-pigmentation products.

4) Why do Westerners like to tan so much?

For the same reason why Asians like to be fair. Back in the day, having a tan meant you’ve had the privilege of spending the day at the beach instead of working at your desk. They also live in a continent with seasons and they may only see the sun for 4 to 5 months out of the year, hence they miss the sun and its warmth. Some people even have tanning beds or go to tanning salons to maintain that sun-kissed hue all year round.

5) How do I keep my skin healthy if I like to tan?

Healthy skin retains its tan longer, so ensure that you moisturise after each tanning session. The top layer of your skin flakes off faster if it is dry. Thus keeping your skin well-hydrated is key to keeping your tan longer and your skin healthier.

6) Should I ever leave my home without sunblock?

You should leave your bare skin exposed for about 15 minutes or more for a darker skin person to the mid-day sun for your body to produce vitamin D. If you are going to be in the sun for much longer than that, you need the sunblock.

Cheryl Lee