1. Hydrate : this cannot be over emphasized. Drinking lots of water will hydrate your body and your skin - this in turn will help you to get a tan, as hydrated skin reacts to the sun better.
2. Supplements (optional): Supplements help to nourish your skin from within and can help to prepare skin for sun exposure. There are many supplements on the market so do your research first. If you are looking for something natural, why not try a homeopathic supplement such as Himanthia Elongata, a natural algae which contains enzymes that boost the production of melanin. Take, as instructed, for one month before sun exposure, during sun exposure, and for one month afterwards for best results.
3. Tan accelerator (also optional): A tan accelerator works similarly to a supplement - it stimulates the production of melanin and moisturises your skin at the same time, preparing the skin for sun exposure. Elemis tan accelerator has received rave reviews and is available online. It claims to prepare the skin for the sun, moisturise and help to prolong a tan.
4. Exfoliate: In order to ensure your tan lasts longer, exfoliate your skin for one month before going on holidays (2 / 3 times per week). Exfoliation will remove the dead skin cells and help to prevent your skin from peeling, thus making your tan last for longer.
5. Eat: studies have shown that eating foods rich in carotenoids, and specifically in beta-carotene (found in some green and orange fruits and vegetables) can have an effect on changing your skin tone. Beta-carotene is a pro-vitamin which is converted into Vitamin A by our bodies and is also a powerful anti-oxidant. It can be found in carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, kale and cabbage. Eating more than the recommended 5 a day however could produce negative effects so remember that moderation is important.
DURING SUN EXPOSURE:
6. Protect: As the Sunscreen Song itself suggests - WEAR SUNSCREEN !! It is absolutely necessary to protect your skin when in the sun, in order to avoid irreparable damage. Start by applying Factor 50, paying careful attention to the face (the skin on your face is thinner and therefore more prone to damage). Do not make the mistake of burning your skin in the pursuit of a colour. Presumably lobster red is not what you had in mind.
7. Moisturise: apply an after sun lotion / moisturiser daily in order to condition your skin and prevent it from becoming dry and flaky (this will only lead to peeling). Continue to exfoliate while on holidays, once per week (scrub gently), and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
8. Water - swimming can help to tan (or burn) your skin faster as the sun reflects off the water, redirecting the UV rays onto your skin. This means the impact of the sun's rays on your skin is doubled. If you spend a lot of time in the water, pay careful attention to wear a a high factor sunscreen that is waterproof. Try Parasol sun protection, an extreme durability oil which only needs to be applied once per day and is waterproof, as well as acting as an insect repellent.
9. Cold showers: cooler water will not dry your skin out as much as hot water so stick to room temperature or less if possible. After sun exposure, it is crucial to keep skin hydrated in order to keep your tan for longer. Continue to moisturise regularly.
10. Bronzer: enhance your natural glow by using a bronzer (or a light self tan). Highlighter also comes in handy at this point and can give your face extra definition.
11. Wear white! : orange and pink shades can make already tanned skin look darker. White also never fails to emphasize a suntan.
12. Fake it: if all else fails, you can always fake a natural glow, rather than relying on the sun itself. If you have naturally pale skin, don't risk damaging your skin in the pursuit of a tan. Whether you go for a spray tan, a tanning lotion or a tanning mousse, just remember that this will not protect the skin from sun damage. Having a fake tan can sometimes feel like you are already naturally bronzed - don't be fooled! Load up on the factor 50.
[Note: This post is designed primarily to help prevent unnecessary skin damage when in the sun. Remember that when you expose your skin to the sun, you are risking damage which can lead to skin cancer.]
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