You can start to tan in as little as 10 minutes of sun exposure, especially if you are not wearing sunscreen. However, you may not see a tan right away, as it can take time for the skin to produce melanin. Most people will tan within a few hours.
Factors that affect tanning speed:
- Skin tone: Fair skin tans more quickly than darker skin.
- Sun intensity: Stronger sunlight will lead to faster tanning.
- Sunscreen use: Sunscreen blocks UV rays, slowing down the tanning process.
Important note: While a tan may seem appealing, excessive sun exposure can be harmful to your skin. Always protect yourself with sunscreen and limit your time in the sun.