Mankind and the sun have successfully maintained their unequal partnership for some considerable time.

We are indebted our existence to it, and Darwinian genetic and social evolution long ago taught us how to cope with the quiddities of that existence and turn them to our advantage.

For instance, our bodies have developed the ability to use the sun for the production of vitamin D essential for our bones, and certain immune functions. That capability is passed on by the safe hand of genetic evolution, which is not subject to the vagaries of its social counterpart.

Unfortunately the attitude to sun and ultra-violet (UV) light is subject to much perverse and dubious technical ‘advice’, which society has passively accepted without questioning its provenance. Whatever the topic, there is always a guru: there must be experts on the best way to tie shoelaces.

To tan safely without burning follow these steps:

1. Start with 10 or 15 minutes of exposure to the sun and gradually increase the time as your body becomes more tanned.

2. Start with a sunscreen with an SPF factor of under 15, but no less than 8. You should avoid items with titanium oxide or zinc oside. Late statistics shows these ingredients may cause free radical damage.

3. If you are prone to burn outside, consider a tanning salon.

4. Keep skin moisturized with after-sun lotion - preferably with aloe - to make your tan last.

5. If you notice your starting to burn put on a hat, cover up, or go inside!

6. Some medications (especially acne medications) lower your resistance to sun.

7. If you are light-skinned/fair, you are more prone to sunburn than people with darker complexions so take extra precautions

Keep in mind tanning and sunshine have their benefits but even one burn increases your risk for skin cancer so be smart about tanning and you’ll be sure to enjoy a great summer!