If you're living in an area that is constantly bathed in sun, somewhere like Florida, it is a lot easier to tan outside. But, generally speaking, the best time of day to tan outside is the same no matter where you live, be it a hot or cold country.
To have a decent tan you need to head outside when the sun is at its highest, which means around midday.
The time when UV exposure is likely to be greatest is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during daylight savings time and during the late spring and early summer in North America.
As UV rays penetrate the skin, it starts to break down DNA in the body. Regardless of the temperature, the skin browns when it receives sufficient UV rays, given off by the sun.
Nonetheless, protection from UV rays is important all year round. UV rays can be as strong on cloudy, hazy days as well as on bright, sunny ones.
One way to determine when to stay out of the sun is by following the shadow rule: "Short Shadow- Seek Shade."
The intensity of UV rays is directly related to the angle of the sun or altitude above the horizon. The shadow rule indirectly determines the sun's altitude by observing the length of a person's shadow during the course of the day.
When a person's shadow is shorter than the person is tall, the intensity of the UV rays from the sun is more likely to cause sunburn.
Learn more facts about tanning at the American Skin Association.
Sun Tanning Tips: Learn The Do's and Don'ts of Tanning from TopBeautyBrands.com.