Summer, what a wonderful time it is! Now that most people will soon be heading off to a sunny destination to spend the holidays, we would also like to come back with a nice tan. Usually that summer tan fades faster than how we got it, but there are ways to keep your holiday tan for longer.
Methods for keeping a tan longer
Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate
The more you exfoliate each week, the faster your tan will fade. It's a good idea to exfoliate at least once a week, as it will help your tan last longer. Exfoliating your skin will remove all dead skin cells, allowing the tan to penetrate deeper into your skin. After sunbathing, use a mild scrub and a moisturising cream to keep your tan as long as possible. Do you want to depilate yourself? Then do it before sunbathing, as depilation also removes dead skin cells.
Under the sunbed
We certainly don't want to promote tanning beds, but they can help you get a nice, gradual tan in the sun and burn less quickly. Do you suffer from sun allergy? Then a sunbed can help reduce or even eliminate the rash. Tanning on a sunbed should be done in moderation. It can be harmful to your skin and health in many ways.
Drink plenty of water
Drink plenty of water after sunbathing to keep hydrated. The skin cells are less likely to die off and it is good for the circulation in your skin. This way, your tan will last longer. Finally, it is always important to drink plenty of water for even, radiant skin.
Using aftersun
Aftersun is a must-have for keeping your tan as long as possible. It nourishes the skin, preventing it from drying out and shedding. In addition, aftersun provides a refreshing feeling and can prevent burning. Some aftersuns also contain antioxidants to help minimise sun damage.
Do you easily suffer from red and sensitive skin when sunbathing? Then choose an aftersun with ingredients such as aloe vera, panthenol, glycerin, bisabolol and thermal spring water.
Want to repair the damage and preserve your tan for longer? Then choose an aftersun with ingredients such as heliotan (Lancaster), vitamin E, antioxidants, pretocopheryl and green tea.
Eat fruit and vegetables
Do you want to keep your tan as long as possible? Then eat fruit and vegetables that are rich in beta-carotene! Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that counteracts the ageing of your (skin) cells by too much sun. You can find it for example in sweet potatoes, melon, carrot, tomato, spinach, broccoli and pumpkin.
Take a supplement
Finding it hard to eat enough fruit and vegetables? Then take a supplement such as vitamin A or beta-carotene. This will give you a tan, although some people may find that it turns yellow.
Don't stay in the shower/bath too long
The longer you shower/bath, the more your skin dries out and the faster your tan fades. Shower with lukewarm water and a mild soap. Then you can apply an oily, moisturising body lotion to your skin. Go outside Some fresh air is good for your health but also for your tan! Go outside to keep your tan as long as possible and get a little tan.
Other tools
Natural tanning is a good thing, but it's not for everyone. Use a powder, cream or self tanner to get that nice summer tan without having to lie in the sun. Isn't it great?
Tips for your holidays
1. Build up your tan slowly and don't spend the whole day in the blazing sun. This will cause your skin to peel faster and do a lot of damage.
2. Don't forget your tube of sun cream when you go out and take a mini version with you everywhere you go. It is also important to apply the right factor to protect your skin from the sun's rays.
3. Prepare for the harsh sun to hit your skin by exfoliating beforehand, taking a supplement if necessary and applying plenty of body cream.
Always protect yourself from the heat of the sun
So there are quite a few ways to keep your tan. From drinking lots of water to taking a supplement, there are plenty of methods. However, you should never forget to protect yourself from the sun with a nourishing sun cream and finish with a moisturising after-sun.