How to Maintain a Tanned Glow While Staying out of the Sun

With summer just around the corner, many of us are looking forward to spending time outside. But while the sun can be fun, it can also be harmful. That’s why self-tanning can be a great way to achieve that bronzed look without risking your skin's health.

Why We Need to Protect Our Skin

The sun gives off rays called UV rays (that stands for ultraviolet). These rays can cause sunburn, and over time, they can lead to serious problems like skin cancer. Even if you don’t get burned, UV rays can still damage your skin, making it age faster. This is why it’s important to protect yourself while enjoying the outdoors! 

The Dangers of UV Rays

Let’s dive a little deeper into the dangers of UV rays. There are two main types:

1. UVA Rays: These rays can penetrate deep into the skin and are mostly responsible for skin aging. They can cause wrinkles and dark spots.

2. UVB Rays: These rays are the main cause of sunburn. They are stronger in the summer and at higher altitudes, making them particularly harmful.

   
   

Both types of UV rays can increase the risk of skin cancer. That’s why it’s crucial to take precautions whenever you’re outside.

What is Self-Tanning?

Self-tanning is a way to get that golden glow without laying out in the sun. There are different types of self-tanners available, including lotions, sprays, and mousses. These products usually contain an ingredient called DHA (dihydroxyacetone), which reacts with the outer layer of your skin to give it a tan look.

Here are some benefits of self-tanning:

1. No Sun Damage: You can look like you’ve spent hours at the beach without exposing your skin to harmful rays.

2. Instant Glow: Many self-tanners can give you an instant glow, so you can look great for special occasions or just everyday life.

3. Even Tan: When applied properly, self-tanners can give you a nice, even tan, unlike some natural tans that can be patchy.

4. Customizable: You can choose how dark you want to go, so you can find the perfect shade for your skin.

5. Convenience: Self-tanning allows you to achieve your desired look from the comfort of your home, avoiding the hassle of beach trips and sunbathing.

   
   

Tips for Self-Tanning

If you decide to try self-tanning, here are some tips to get the best results:

• Plan Ahead: There are a few things to consider when thinking about when to do your tan! When do you want the peak of your tan to be? For the deepest and most even outcome, doing your self tan two days before your event is best! For example, if you have an event you want to look bronzed for on Saturday, it is best to tan Thursday evening! Have any waxes, pedicures, facials, massages or sauna visits planned? You want to make sure you get those done before your tan as some of these activities can exfoliate your skin or apply products that can remove tan! 

• Exfoliate First: Before applying self-tanner, make sure to exfoliate your skin. This helps remove dead skin cells and ensures an even application. If possible, try not to shower or shave right before your tan. Hot showers and shaving can open up the pores which can cause the tan to settle in creating a speckled appearance. It is usually best to shower the morning of your tan or a few hours before and let your pores close before applying. The skin should be clean, with no products, especially deodorant! An astringent such as alcohol or witch hazel can be used under the arms to reduce the buildup of deodorant in that area. It also helps to wipe any areas that you tend to have larger pores with isopropyl alcohol to help close those pores. A dry brush can also be used prior to your shower to really help exfoliate the skin! 

• Moisturize: Apply a moisturizer generously to dry areas like elbows, knees, hands and feet. This prevents those areas from absorbing too much tanner and becoming too dark.

• Use a Good Mitt and Apply: One of our favorite mitts is the Coco and Eve self tanning mitt but most mitts should do the trick!  When applying self tanner, be generous with the product on the mitt. Apply the tanner to the mitt first then apply in circulation motions to the skin. It is best to address the body in sections in order to create an even appearance. For now, avoid the knees, elbows, hands, face and feet. We will come back to those! If your tanner has a guide color, you should be able to tell where the tanner has been placed. Don’t fret! The guide color is not the final outcome of your tan and may look a little streaky when applying. If you have any concerning streaks, you can take your mitt and dab the area and that should blend it in just fine!

• Hands, Feet, Face, Knees and Elbows: For these areas, it is best to use a thick makeup brush to blend the tan into these areas. For your elbows, knees, and feet pick up any excess product on the mitt with your brush and use that brush to blend these areas into the surrounding skin. It is important to bend your knees, ankles, and elbows so that the product gets into each crease in these areas. For the hands, this is the most difficult area! Make sure to use minimal product when addressing this area. Pick up excess product from your mitt and apply to the hands carefully avoiding the palms. Make sure to bend your hands into a claw like position in order to get every nook and cranny! After completing the hands. Make sure to wipe the palms and the finger nails to remove any tanning product. Pick up that brush again and do not grab anymore product. Start to blend at just the crease of where your palm meets your wrist to ensure a smooth transition. For the face, we will be using the same brush! You can apply product more liberally to this area. Some tanners like to apply tan all over the face or you can use the tanner on just the high points to create a more natural appearance! This would be on the cheeks, the forehead, and over the nose. If you are using this method, it is important to blend the tan on your neck into the lower face/ jawline area. 

• Waiting for the magic to happen: Each self-tanner is different, so be sure to read and follow the instructions on the product you choose. Some tans are express and only have to be left on for a few hours and some it is best to leave them on 6 hrs or sleep in them! Regardless of the time of tan, we want to make sure that the tan develops evenly while you wait. Take a few minutes before getting dressed to let your body dry off. In a pinch, applying baby powder in certain areas such as the underarms or between the thighs or giving yourself a once over with a blow dryer on cool can help you dry off a little faster. After drying off, make sure to wear loose, dark clothing while your tan develops. Tight elastic waist bands or arm/ leg cuffs can cause an uneven appearance. Avoid any activities that involve water, cleaning supplies, or sweating/ crying. Any contact with liquids will remove the tan in that area! Rinsing off: After waiting the appropriate amount of time, it is finally time to shower. Your first shower after applying your tan should only be a rinse off with lukewarm water! Try avoiding soaps as the tan is still developing. If necessary a gentle soap can be used in areas such as the underarms if needed in this shower. You should be safe to take a regular shower 12hrs after your first rinse! 

• Maintaining : The key to a good summer glow is maintaining the tan you applied so much effort to! It is best to avoid heavily exfoliating products such as dry brushes or exfoliating mitts while maintaining your tan. Chemical exfoliants such as retinols or glycolic acids increase the turn over of your tan so keep in mind, if these products are in your skincare routine, your face may need a touch up sooner than your body! It is also best to avoid prolonged exposure to chlorine or saltwater! 

  
  

Staying Safe in the Sun

While self-tanning is a great option, it’s still important to enjoy the sun safely when you do go outside. Here are some tips:

• Wear Sunscreen: Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.

• Seek Shade: Whenever possible, find shade during the hottest parts of the day, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses can protect your skin from harmful rays.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water when you’re outside, especially in the heat. Hydration helps keep your skin healthy.

• Limit Time in Direct Sunlight: Try to keep your outdoor activities to shorter periods in the sun and take breaks in the shade.

The Bottom Line

Self-tanning is a fantastic way to achieve a sun-kissed look while keeping your skin safe from harmful UV rays. Remember to take care of your skin by using sunscreen and seeking shade when you’re outside. By making smart choices, you can enjoy the sun and keep your skin healthy and glowing all summer long!

Taking care of your skin is a lifelong commitment, and with the right knowledge, you can look great while staying safe. So, grab that self-tanner and enjoy the summer, knowing you’re taking care of your skin the smart way!

Stay safe and happy tanning!