The Pro Tanning Guide: 5 Tips for a Safe & Long-Lasting Tan

Summer is in full swing and we bet you all - us included of course - want to have a good share of fun under the sun. Besides the bronzed skin, there are plenty other reasons why we love the sun. Spending time under the sun helps boosting the levels of serotonin, hence a better mood. Additionally, let’s not forget about vitamin D which is essential for the bones, skin, and teeth. The downside of a glowing sun-kissed skin though is a bad sunburn if you do not tan properly. So if you want to know how to make your tan last longer without having to suffer a burnt skin, here’s a simple guide.

Flake It Off

One of the important steps for having a perfect tan is a pre tanning prep. Exfoliating the skin and getting rid of dead skin is essential for having an even tan. An important note though, do not scrub right before tanning, because this is when your skin is too sensitive to be exposed to the sun.

Protect

People mistakenly believe that applying sunblock will prevent you from getting tanned. On the contrary, it will help protecting your skin from burning, consequently your tan won’t peel off. Over exposure to the sun without sunblock can damage your skin and cause premature skin aging.  Opt for a broad spectrum sunscreen with UVA & UVB protection, and if your skin is sensitive do not go for a factor lower than SPF 30.  

Tan Like a Pro

Surprising as it may sound, your skin has a tanning cut-off point which is around 2-3 hours. After this amount of time, your skin will no longer get any darker because this is the longest your body can create melanin, the pigment responsible for tanning. As an extra tip, take regular dips in the pool or the sea and reapply your sunblock and tanning oil for a flawless tan.

Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

Spending long hours in the sun gets the skin dry and dehydrated, this is why after-care is a very important step in the process. Drink lots of water and quench your skin with deep moisturizers and after-sun soothing creams to keep your skin cool. Also, after taking a shower, don’t vigorously rub the skin and instead pat dry with a soft towel.

Flaunt it

Now that you’ve got your tan on, add a little of glow and flaunt it.  Shimmering creams and dry shimmering oils will not only keep your skin soft and smooth, but will really highlight that tan and give it a nice glow.