Originally Posted by
walnutz
Just so everyone knows: a tan is another word for a minor sunburn.
The tan is just the upper layer of your skin, the epidermis, producing more pigments to protect the dermis below, and is reasonably safe. Exposure is even necessary to promote vitamin D production. A burn is when there is prolonged exposure to strong UV that penetrates down to the dermis. This is more harmful.
I am also quite weary of sun exposure, and I prefer to cover up rather than chemical--gloves, longer bibs/shorts, longer socks even. I'll put sunscreen on my arms and then armsleeves because that's the one body part that is constantly exposed to direct and strong sunlight. Sunscreen on my face and neck, and extra on the nose and ears.
I love summer riding, but that's the one hassle that I do not like.