beauty

Evolution of the tan phenomenon in the last century

Introduction

The relationship between man and tan has changed profoundly in recent years, in line with the socio-economic changes that have occurred in the history of humanity.

However, over the years, tanning has always been used as a distinctive feature of different social classes: since ancient times it has been considered a prerogative of the less wealthy and poorer social classes, to then take on the meaning contrary to the passage of time and with the advent of industries.

Below, we will see the reasons for how this happened.

Tan in the Past

Already in ancient Roman times, tanning was certainly not as desired as it is today, on the contrary, it was despised by the more affluent social classes that considered it characteristic of the exponents of the poorer classes, forced to work for many hours outdoors and in the fields. In support of this, various testimonies have been found that show how noblewomen of ancient Rome protected themselves from the sun in order to maintain their fair skin.

The association between tanning and the poorest part of the population continued until the end of the nineteenth century, during which the marked tan of the skin was the prerogative of peasants and laborers. This feature, which at the time was not appreciated at all, emphasized the humble and disadvantaged social class of workers forced to spend many hours in the scorching sun.

On the contrary, the pallor of the face was synonymous with nobility and economic well-being. This characteristic was even accentuated through the massive use of cosmetic products.

The turning point

Starting from the early years of the twentieth century, the opinion on tanning slowly began to change, gradually evolving towards the current concept of tan.

A first turning point came in 1903, when the Danish doctor Niels Finsen received the Nobel prize for the discovery of how the use of ultraviolet light could be effective in fighting a particular skin disease: lupus vulgaris (caused by a bacterial infection supported by Mycobacterium tubercolosis ). Sunlight, therefore, began to be observed with new eyes: no longer a factor to be avoided at all costs, but a possible ally in the prevention and treatment of certain skin diseases.

A further turning point occurred around the 1920s by the well-known stylist Coco Chanel who, on returning from a holiday on the Côte d'Azur, appeared tanned. All this naturally struck his clients who soon tried to emulate her. However, the concept of tanning was still far from what we are used to thinking today; in fact, the same designer was exposed to the sun, but with gloves, since she believed that a lady could not have the hands of a worker.

The real breakthrough that revolutionized the concept of tanning probably occurred only in the mid-twentieth century.

Starting from the end of the Second World War, in fact, the reputation of the tan slowly began to improve. The contemporary economic development and tourism in general led to a real passion for tanning.

The suntan became, therefore, synonymous with well-being and a comfortable life, full of pleasures, travels and adventures.

On the contrary, the pale complexion has become a characteristic feature of the lower classes who, having to work indoors in an office or a factory, do not have the economic means to enjoy long holidays.

Tan in the Present

In recent years, with the advent of new technologies, and with an increasingly insistent pressure from the media, brown leather has become increasingly synonymous with beauty on an international level.

Currently, the tan is constantly sought after, not only during the summer, but throughout the year, pushing many people to resort to artificial tanning in order to maintain their dark and golden skin even during the winter months.

Waiting for a new turnaround, we just have to discover all the secrets of tanning, to enjoy the much sought after tan in total safety.