As summer approaches, we all eagerly await the moment when we can enjoy the sun and achieve a healthy tan. However, for your skin to look beautiful and evenly tanned while also being protected from harmful UV rays, it’s important to properly prepare it for tanning. Below, we’ll share useful tips on how to prepare your skin for the sun to achieve not only a beautiful but also a healthy tan.
Skin Cleansing – The First Step in Preparation
The first and one of the most important steps in preparing for tanning is skin cleansing. Removing dead skin cells allows you to achieve a more even and deeper tan. Using a scrub or exfoliating helps get rid of dead skin cells and makes your skin softer, allowing the tan to apply evenly.
How to Cleanse Your Skin Properly?
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Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating product for both body and face, preferably with natural ingredients like sugar, coffee, or sea salt.
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Perform the cleansing procedure a few days before sun exposure to give your skin time to recover.
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Scrubs can be used 1-2 times a week, depending on your skin type. Avoid excessive rubbing to prevent skin damage.
Skin Moisturizing – An Important Step for Protection
Moisturized skin not only looks healthier but also retains the tan better. Tanning on dry skin isn’t the best choice, as the skin may peel, and the tan will appear uneven.
How to Moisturize Your Skin Before Tanning?
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Use moisturizing lotions, creams, or oils that help retain moisture in the skin and prepare it for the sun.
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Oils based on coconut, shea, olive, or argan are perfect for maintaining the softness and elasticity of the skin.
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Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Using Sunscreen – The Foundation of Skin Health
Don’t forget about sunscreen! While tanning is desirable, UV rays can be harmful to your skin, causing premature aging, pigmentation, or even skin cancer. Therefore, it’s very important to choose the right sunscreen.
How to Choose Sunscreen?
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Choose creams with an SPF of at least 30, preferably 50, especially if you have fair skin or plan to stay in the sun for long periods.
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Use products that protect against both UVA and UVB rays, as they can damage the skin even on cloudy days.
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Don’t forget to apply the cream to all exposed areas of the body and reapply it every 2 hours, as well as after swimming.
Proper Nutrition for Skin Health
An important step in preparing your skin for tanning is proper nutrition. Some foods can help strengthen your skin and prepare it for the sun.
Foods That Improve Skin:
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Carrots and pumpkins are rich in beta-carotene, which helps improve skin color and stimulates melanin production.
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Berries and citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which supports collagen, improves skin elasticity, and protects against oxidation.
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Fish and oils (salmon, sardines, olive oil) contain omega-3 fatty acids that help the skin retain moisture and reduce inflammation.
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Water is crucial for maintaining skin hydration from the inside, allowing it to respond better to the sun.
Post-Tanning Skin Care
After achieving the desired tan, it’s important to continue caring for your skin to keep the tan lasting as long as possible.
How to Care for Your Skin After Tanning?
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After sun exposure, be sure to use products containing aloe vera or panthenol, which soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
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Moisturizing is key to keeping the tan from fading too quickly. Apply moisturizing creams, oils, or lotions daily to retain moisture.
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Avoid prolonged sun exposure to prevent skin damage and avoid accelerating the aging process.
A Smart Approach to Tanning
Remember that tanning should be safe. It’s best to achieve a sun-kissed glow gradually, starting with short sessions, and never forget to use sunscreen. Try to avoid peak sun hours (from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.) when the sun is the strongest.
Preparing your skin for tanning is a comprehensive set of actions that will help you achieve not only a beautiful but also a healthy skin tone. Cleansing, moisturizing, proper nutrition, and sunscreen application will allow you to enjoy tanning without harming your skin. Keep in mind moderation and stay cautious under the sun, and your skin will remain healthy, beautiful, and glowing!
