The Ultimate Beach Tan Guide: How To Get a Stunning Tan While Protecting Your Skin
Heading to the Beach? Let's Get That Summer Glow! ✨
I know you've been eagerly awaiting summer just like me. We're all excited to shed that winter paleness and soak up the sun for a beautiful tan.
In this article, written by someone who's spent their life just 10 minutes from the beach, I'll explain the best tanning techniques and practices to help you achieve the perfect tan while keeping your skin protected. Ready to dive in and enjoy a sun-kissed summer?
Let's get started! ⛱️
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What You Need to Know:
Can I get a tan without sunscreen? It's possible, but not recommended. Applying sunscreen is key for getting the best tan because it protects your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause sunburn and skin damage. When your skin is protected, you can spend more time in the sun without the risk of burning, allowing you to gradually develop a beautiful, golden tan. Sunscreen also helps to prevent premature aging and reduces the risk of skin cancer, ensuring that your skin stays healthy and radiant for years to come. So, don't forget to apply sunscreen before hitting the beach to achieve that perfect sun-kissed glow while keeping your skin safe and healthy.
How long does it take to get a tan? The time varies based on skin type and sun exposure. Gradual tanning over multiple sessions is safer than prolonged exposure in one go.
Can I tan when it’s cloudy? Cloudy days may seem less sunny, but UV rays can still penetrate through clouds and reach your skin. This means that you can still get a tan even when it's cloudy, of course at a slower rate compared to a sunny day. It's important to note that UV rays can still cause skin damage even on cloudy days, so wearing sunscreen and practicing sun safety is essential regardless of the weather conditions."
What SPF should I use? Experts recommend SPF 30 or higher for adequate protection. Reapply every two hours or after swimming.
Will using oils help me tan faster? While oils can make your skin appear darker temporarily by intensifying the UV rays, they don't provide protection against sunburn or skin damage. In fact, using oils without sunscreen can increase your risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Instead of relying on oils for a faster tan, consider incorporating foods rich in vitamin A into your diet. Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, and mangoes are excellent sources of beta carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. Consuming these foods can support your skin's health and enhance your tan naturally, without the harmful effects of UV-intensifying oils.
How do I maintain my tan? Moisturize regularly, avoid long showers, and continue using sunscreen to preserve your tan.
Sunscreen Recommendations:
Drugstore:
For affordable and effective sun protection, check out drugstore sunscreens.
High-End:
For those seeking high-end sun protection options, here are our favourites:
Step By Step Tanning Technique:
Before you start:
Protect Your Skin: Before hitting the beach, put on sunscreen with a high SPF. It shields your skin from sunburn and helps you tan evenly. Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before hitting the sun.
Pick Your Spot Wisely: Find a comfy spot on the sand where you can relax. Bringing a beach towel or chair not only adds extra comfort but also ensures you have a designated space for your tanning session. If beach umbrellas are available, it's essential to use them to create shade and protect yourself from the sun's intense rays. If umbrellas aren't an option, look for a spot where a bit of natural shade can hit, such as under a tree or near a structure, so you can take breaks and cool off when needed.
Let's Dive Into the Step-By-Step Tanning Technique!
Apply Sunscreen: As discussed previously, applying sunscreen is crucial before a tan. Unlike many beliefs, sunscreen will not prevent you from tanning, on the contrary it will give you that golden tan without damaging your skin or burning your skin.
Go for A Swim: Taking a swim after applying sunscreen has its perks for tanning. It cools you off and keeps your skin moisturized, helping to distribute melanin for a more even tan. Additionally, Water can reflect sunlight, which can increase your exposure to UV rays.
Tan on Your Back: Now that you’re out of the water, lay on your back for 20 minutes to allow your front to tan. Twenty minutes is a recommended duration for tanning on your back to achieve an optimal balance between getting a tan and minimizing the risk of sunburn or skin damage. It allows enough time for your skin to absorb sunlight and start producing melanin, which gives your skin its tan colour.
Switch to your Back Side: After tanning your front, it is important to tan your back for the same amount of minutes (in this case, 20 minutes). This ensures that both your back and front receive equal sun exposure for a balanced and even tan. It helps if you set an alarm on your cellphone, so you don’t forget.
Go for A Swim: It’s time to go back for a swim! This not only provides a refreshing break but also helps cool down your body and moisturize your skin, contributing to a healthier and more even tan.
Re-apply Sunscreen: This step is essential for maintaining protection against harmful UV rays and preventing sunburn. Be sure to use a water-resistant sunscreen and apply it generously to all exposed areas of your skin.
Tan Your Front: Back to tanning your front, this time for 15 minutes.
Tan Your Back: Finally, switch and tan your back for 15 minutes as well.
Remember to drink plenty of water during your stay at the beach, snack on carrots, mangoes, and other foods that are high in Vitamin A to improve your tan naturally!
Tips if You Want to Stay Longer:
If you want to stay longer in the sun to tan, here's some advice:
Gradually Increase Time: Start with shorter tanning sessions, gradually increasing the duration as your skin gets accustomed to the sun.
Use a Higher SPF: Opt for a sunscreen with a higher SPF (30 or above) if you plan to stay longer. Reapply it every two hours or more frequently if you're sweating or swimming.
Take Breaks: Take regular breaks in shaded areas to give your skin a rest from direct sunlight and prevent overexposure.
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and prevent dehydration, which can occur with prolonged sun exposure.
Listen to Your Skin: Pay attention to any signs of sunburn or discomfort, such as redness, pain, or blistering. If you notice these signs, it's time to seek shade and cool down your skin.
Note: A total of 35 minutes for each side (front and back) can be sufficient for many people to achieve a nice tan without overexposing their skin to UV rays. However, the exact duration can vary depending on factors such as your skin type, sensitivity to sunlight, and the intensity of the sun. It's essential to monitor your skin during tanning sessions and adjust the time accordingly. If you notice any signs of sunburn or discomfort, it's best to shorten the tanning duration or take longer breaks in shaded areas to protect your skin.
To wrap things up, tanning is all about finding the right balance between getting that gorgeous glow and protecting your skin. Following the easy steps and using the recommended products shared in this article can help you achieve a sun-kissed look without any worries. Remember, sun safety is key, so don't forget to apply sunscreen, take breaks in the shade, and keep yourself hydrated. Whether you're going for budget-friendly options or treating yourself to luxury sunscreens, the goal is to feel good and look great while enjoying the sunny days ahead. Happy tanning! ☀️
And as always, Thrive In Style 👙
