Summer vacation is a favorite for many of us. Lounging at the beach and getting a sun-kissed glow is a must, but how to achieve your best tan? Are they tanning mistakes that may ruin your summer glow (and possibly your skin?).
Calypso Cavallo tells you everything you need to know.
Tanning is not burning!
The first thing to know to achieve your best tan is that tanning is not burning, and trying to get sunburns is never a good idea and won’t make your tan look any better or stay any longer. Sunburns suck: they are painful and dangerous, increasing your risk of skin cancer. They also fragilize your skin and may cause it to be unable to tan anymore.
To avoid them, use an SPF-containing product, such as sunscreen or SPF-containing tanning oil or lotion. The SPF level is not the most important; what is crucial with sunscreen is to reapply it often. Every two hours and every time you swim or shower. Many people buy SPF 200 sunscreen and apply it once, thinking it will protect their skin for the whole day. It is not valid, and they are signing up for sunburns.
Using an SPF to protect your skin also helps your sun-kissed glow to stay longer on your skin and avoid skin peeling.
Achieve you best tan: step by step guide
Do you plan a vacation and want to achieve your best tan? Here is the step-by-step guide to help you avoid the tanning faux pas that may ruin your summer look.
- Wax and exfoliate at least 24 hours before your tanning session
For many women, the first thing they do before going on a beach vacation is to get rid of body hair. If you wax, ensure to do it at least 24 hours before exposing your skin to the sun. Never wax on the same day you go to the beach or the pool.
Exfoliating your skin before tanning eliminates dead skin and helps your glow to last longer. However, never exfoliate your skin in the morning, as going in the sun right after could damage your skin. If you want to wax before going to the beach, you should exfoliate your skin 48 hours before, then wax 24h before going to the beach or exposing your skin to the sun. Never exfoliate your skin on the same day as you wax.
- Apply and reapply SPF
As mentioned before, an SPF-containing product is crucial to protect your skin when tanning. Do you think sunscreen is boring? There are tons of SPF-containing tanning lotion and oil out there. Some sunscreen comes in cooling effect sprays and pleasant smells. Remember that the best sunscreen is the one you use!
Don’t forget to reapply every two hours and when you swim or shower.
- Protect your eyes and face
The skin on your face is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your body. Don’t go to the beach without your prettiest hat and sunglasses!
- Moisturize your skin daily
Once you are back home (or in your hotel room) from the beach or the pool, take a shower to eliminate tanning lotion residues and sweat. Then, apply moisturizers on both your face and body. Moisturizing is crucial to keep your skin healthy, stay tanned longer and ensure a smooth and natural-looking fading.
Getting your best tan without the sun?
No vacay for you this year? Are you concerned about the adverse effects of prolonged sun exposure? Don’t worry; you can still achieve your best tan without spending hours in a bikini. A sunless tan is less risky in a matter of skin cancer. There are plenty of self-tanning lotions that will do the trick. Remember to exfoliate your skin first and reapply every four to six days, as it fades much faster than an actual sun tan.