It’s been gorgeous weather and you’ve spent the better part of the last few weeks outside. Now you’ve got a super summer tan — and you’d like to keep it that way! But summer tans always fade, right? Well, we have some great tips on how you can maintain that glowing tan for as long as possible.
Gentle Exfoliation
We know you’re thinking exfoliating doesn’t sound right—and you’d be correct when you’re talking about harsh exfoliating tools or merchandise that can strip your skin of your beautiful tan layer. But using a mild exfoliating product really aids your skin in regenerating its oils so it can maintain its hydration. If you’re not keen on store-bought items, try making your own sugar scrub to keep your healthy tan.
Say No to Waxing
Waxing might be a great way to remove hair, but not so great when you have a tan. Why? Waxing not only removes your hair but also that first skin layer that contains your tan—yikes! Likewise, items that have salicylic acid or glycolic acid may do the same thing. So it’s best to use razors for these tanning months.
Devour More of a Certain Antioxidant
Did you know there’s an antioxidant that’ll help your skin keep its healthy hue? It’s true! Beta carotene, contained in lots of veggies and fruits, has many benefits for your body but one of them is supporting skin health. So to keep that golden shade, munch on these foods which are rich in beta carotene:
- Kale or spinach
- Sweet potatoes
- Cantaloupe
- Carrots
- Romaine lettuce
- Red bell peppers
- Broccoli
- Butternut squash
- Apricots
Use Self-Tanning Products
It’s still possible for your tan to peel or fade regardless of the extra care you give your skin. But we have good news! When you begin to see fading tan lines, just spray or rub on a self-tanning product to extend the life of your tan. Buy a self-tanning item with a moisturizer in it to keep your skin’s oils locked in. Always remember to use a mild exfoliant before putting on your self-tanning product.
Take Cool Showers
That hot shower may feel good on tired, achy muscles after a hard workout or a long, busy day at work. But your skin won’t like it much. Hot showers actually cause your skin to lose moisture quickly and, in the end, peel—so say goodbye to your beautiful tan! However, turning that faucet a bit over to the cool side is going to save your tan as well as using moisturizing body washes.
Moisturize!
You don’t want that lovely tan to fade or peel. Moisturizing is vital to keep that glow. If your skin has started peeling, a moisturizer that’s oil-based will renew the oil in your skin in no time—or try coconut or grapeseed oil. But it’s best not to let your skin get to that point. Your skin needs hydration just like the rest of your body and slathering on moisturizer as much as you can during the day will keep your gorgeous bronze; all-natural shea butter works great too. Be sure to apply your favorite moisturizer immediately after gently toweling off from a shower; doing so traps the moisture in your skin and prevents that nasty peeling. Remember to moisturize after shaving too. Also, in addition to your moisturizer, purchase an after-sun cream and apply it after you’ve spent some time in the sun—aloe vera is a good one. This cream will repair your skin since sun exposure dries it out and you’ll appear tanned instead of burned.
Drink Water
Okay, you’ve moisturized your body on the outside—but let’s not forget to moisturize it on the inside! We all know the importance of drinking 8 glasses of water each day. But downing more water and continually sipping during your day is even better. Staying hydrated helps your skin to retain its attractive summer tan.
Following these handy tips will help your glorious summer tan stick around for longer than just the summer. Contact us for more information about getting your best tan.
