Everything you should know before you tan topless

In the 70s people would tan topless all the time as a way of expressing their sense of freedom – it was a sign of true equality for women. Ever since, trends have changed and women have been more skeptical to take their swimsuit top off due to people’s sexual perception of their breasts, but also due to rumors regarding the health risks.

Why should we feel ashamed for letting the twins roam free? Especially after #freethenipple, the gender equality campaign destined to empower women and restrain sexual objectification. This summer will be the perfect time to let your babies have their time in the spotlight whether that’s at a crowed beach or a private backyard session with your girlfriends.

Now, here are some tips on how to tan topless the safest way possible.

Pick the right sunscreen

Sunscreen is VITAL. Make sure you use SPF 50 or higher and don’t forget to reapply every two to three hours and every time after you go in the water. Pay attention to the nipples since they are one of the highly sensitive erogenous parts of the body, which explain why they need more attention. By keeping them protected, you’ll avoid risks of breast cancer.

Timing

Absolutely try to avoid tanning between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. or you will get an awful sunburn. The best time of the day to tan outside is before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. If you do get sunburned on your breasts have no fear. Take a cold shower, apply aloe vera or cocoa butter to reduce the pain and don’t forget to stay hydrated. One important thing that you shouldn’t do is break the blisters since the liquid inside of them will help the healing process.

Find the right place

If you’re tanning in your backyard you might want to avoid having your parents around. However, if you’re going to a beach, make sure you’re allowed to go topless, it would be embarrassing to get arrested top-free by the police.

Can I be arrested for going topless in a topless city?

The rules are very confusing but the majority of states are topless-free according to GoTopless.org: “Even if a top free law is firmly in effect, the police can still arrest you under the pretense of ‘disorderly conduct’. Don’t be intimidated! You can sue the city back for wrongful arrest (if your only crime was to go topless).”

States in orange have ambiguous laws and the ones in red consider going topless illegal. One piece of advice, always keep a top next to you just in case.

Pick the right people to do it with

Sisters, friends, boyfriend? You may want to think twice before you choose whom to go with. No matter who you pick, make sure you are comfortable with the one/ones you chose. Think about it before heading to the nearest beach, you probably don’t want to flash your titties in front of your grandma.

Tattoos or nipple piercings

Tattoos and nipples piercing need extra care. The general rule for tattoos anywhere on your body is that you should apply a high SPF on and around the area or the tattoo will fade – this is the same for any tattoos near your titties.

Because nipples piercings take approximately six to 10 weeks to perfectly heal you should put a bandage on your unhealed nip before you go full on topless. It’s suggested not to expose piercings to direct sunlight for at least four months. However, once they’ve healed be careful not to get sunscreen near the actual piercing – you don’t want it to get infected.

People will stare

Embrace it. People will stare and there’s nothing you can do about it. Big or small, be proud.

The day after

Put lotion on your body and take extra time to moisturize your breasts. By keeping them hydrated, it’ll make your tan stay longer and look healthier. Also, don’t forget to drink water after a day under the sun.

Confidence

It seems easy but it’s not. Once you get to the place you wanted to go to, find a spot and settle down. Take of your bikini top and own it. Here’s a tip to boost your confidence: icing your breast will make them perky and firm.

“Everyone says free the nipples but I view being topless as a soulful sense of freedom,” said Hayley Holsberger.

The French do it so why don’t you?