Must-Know Tanning Tips for the Best Results

Achieving the perfect tan is an art that requires more than just sitting under the sun or booking a session at a tanning salon. Here are some must-know tanning tips for the best results.

Exfoliate Before Tanning

For an even and lasting tan, start with a clean slate by exfoliating your skin. Removing dead skin cells ensures that the tan will develop evenly and last longer. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub on your entire body, paying special attention to rough areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. This process should be done a day before your tanning session to avoid irritating the skin.

Stay Hydrated and Moisturize

Hydrated skin tans better and retains color longer. Drink plenty of water before and after your tanning session to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Additionally, apply a hydrating moisturizer after exfoliating and once your tan has developed. Avoid oil-based lotions before tanning, as they can create barriers that unevenly block tanning agents, leading to a patchy tan.

Choose Your Tanning Method Wisely

Select a tanning method that suits your skin type and desired outcome. If you prefer sun tanning, avoid peak sun hours between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest. For sunless tanning options like sprays or lotions, choose products with natural ingredients that are less likely to cause irritation. If you opt for a tanning bed, limit your sessions to avoid overexposure to UV rays, which can be harmful.

Protect Sensitive Areas

Areas such as your eyes, lips, and any spots with scars or tattoos require extra protection during a tanning session. Use SPF on sensitive areas, and consider wearing lip balm with sunblock. If you’re using a tanning bed, wear protective eyewear to safeguard your eyes from harmful UV rays. Additionally, covering scars and tattoos can prevent them from darkening or fading, respectively.

Use Tan Accelerators for Quick Results

Tan accelerators are a popular choice for those looking to enhance their tan in a short amount of time. These products increase the production of melanin—the pigment that gives your skin color—when exposed to UV light or the sun. There are many benefits of using tan accelerators before your tanning sessions, such as achieving deeper and more durable tanning results faster. Just be sure to choose a reputable brand and ensure that the product is suitable for your skin type to avoid irritation.

Now that you understand these must-know tanning tips for the best results, you’re all set to achieve a perfectly even, glowing tan safely. Remember, the key to a beautiful tan lies in taking care of your skin before, during, and after tanning.