This is not a drill. The sun is coming and seeing as our summer holidays have all been cancelled, we’ll be heading immediately to the park – bikini on, playing wave sounds through our headphones – to close our eyes and imagine we’re actually living the island life. Top of the agenda (well, after a Piña Colada tinny from M&S), is a tan. So, here’s what you need to know about the best (and safest) way to get a natural tan.
By Beth Ludolf
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1 Prep your skin
Just like prepping for a spray tan, grab an exfoliating mitt and some scrub – coconut oil and sugar works a treat – and buff away any dead skin. When your tan develops on fresh skin, you end up with a more even and longer-lasting glow. Remember though, chemical exfoliators (like AHAs) make the skin far more susceptible to sun damage, so wear SPF.
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2 Hydration, hydration, hydration
Staying hydrated is key for glowing skin, whether you worship the sun or not. Make sure you drink plenty of water (especially when you’re spending time in the sun) to hydrate your skin from the inside out. You’re probably in the routine of moisturising your face twice a day, but what about your body? Use a body lotion morning and night, especially after having a hot shower as this can dry out your skin.
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3 Wear protection
Some people think SPF will stop you from getting a tan but this isn’t true. Protecting the skin is key for all skin tones. Not only will a sunburn put an end to any sunbathing plans (the pain *shudders*), damage from UVB rays causes premature ageing. Consider using a higher factor of broad-spectrum SPF on areas of your body more susceptible to ageing (your face, neck and décolletage) – even in cloudy weather.
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4 The time to tan
This is a marathon, not a sprint. If you overexpose your skin, you’re more likely to get a sunburn which will dry out the skin and lead to peeling (which takes the tan with it). Gradually is the way to go. Build up the time you spend in the sun, starting with an hour a day. Remember, the sun is at it’s strongest between 10 am and 3 pm, so limit your sunbathing to outside of these hours.
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5 You are what you eat
Some studies suggest that fruit and vegetables rich in beta-carotene could help you get a summer glow. Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant that helps to limit the damage that UV (and other free radicals, like pollution) cause the skin. Consider filling your fridge with carrots, peppers, melon, kale and spinach. Smoothie, anyone?
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FAQs
How do you prepare your skin for a natural tan?
Start by exfoliating with a mitt and scrub to remove dead skin for a smoother and longer-lasting tan. Avoid chemical exfoliators like AHAs before sun exposure, as they can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage. Always use SPF after exfoliating.
Does wearing SPF prevent you from getting a tan?
No, wearing SPF does not stop you from tanning; it protects your skin from sunburn and premature ageing. Use a higher factor, broad-spectrum SPF especially on your face, neck and décolletage, even on cloudy days, to ensure your tan develops safely.
When is the best time for sunbathing to get a tan safely?
Limit your sun exposure to outside the hours of 10 am to 3 pm, when the sun is at its strongest. Gradually build up your time in the sun, starting with about an hour a day to avoid sunburn and keep your tan even and long-lasting.
How does staying hydrated affect your tan?
Staying hydrated helps your skin glow and prevents dryness while tanning. Drink plenty of water, especially when spending time in the sun, and moisturise your body morning and night to support an even, radiant tan.
Which foods can help you achieve a summer glow?
Fruits and vegetables rich in beta-carotene like carrots, peppers, melon, kale and spinach may help you get a summer glow. Beta-carotene acts as a powerful antioxidant and can help limit UV and pollution damage to your skin.