All of us want to appear as if we have just stepped out onto the beach with a perfect, sun-kissed tan.
But without any tanning guidance, getting that perfect tan can be a challenge – especially for beginners.
To help you achieve the perfect tan, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of tanning dos and don’ts for beginners.
You can be confident in your golden glow by following these expert tips.
The Do’s
Never skimp on sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential, whether you prefer to use products from the store or go au naturel. Long-term UVA and UVB exposure can lead to serious health consequences such as skin cancer.
Make sure the sunscreen you choose has at least a 30 SPF rating and that it clearly states its UVA/UVB coverage. Consider extra benefits such as nourishing and replenishing. Apply it 20 minutes or more before you step out into the sunlight. Make sure to cover any areas that may be overlooked.
Remember, sunscreen won’t hinder your tanning routine. It is a barrier which allows the skin to produce enough melanin for that golden glow.
Dead skin removal
It’s hard to escape pollutants, particles, and dirt that build up on our skin over time and can damage it.
Moreover, the sun’s UVA and UVB rays penetrate the outermost layer of skin, causing serious damage.
That’s why exfoliation is a must in your skincare routine. You can use a body scrub and a tan removal scrub daily, as well as a trusted exfoliating brush. This combination will give you a tan that is even and help to get rid of those stubborn dead skin cells.
Take breaks
Allowing your skin to cool off is another great tanning tip. If you want a longer-lasting and more healthy tan, find some shade. Also, allow your skin to cool down between sun exposures.
Likewise, you can tan in the water, but be careful—the sun can scorch you just as quickly, notably since swimming reduces the effectiveness of many sunscreen products. Don’t ignore the need to take breaks when tanning in the sun since prolonged exposure can damage your skin.
Stay hydrated
It is important to do this. Always keep a bottle of drinking water close by while basking—aside from the simple fact that you feel weary while tanning, drinking enough water also helps you prevent sunburn by allowing your skin to absorb the sun’s rays while remaining healthy, nourished, and supple.
Apply skin products with UVA/UVB protection – The best tanning advice
You might think that after applying sunscreen to your skin, your back, neck and face are covered. But your entire body requires protection.
Makeup must be UV-protective. Use sunscreen-based eye and lip protection during tanning excursions. You can also try these tanning oil recipe for different types of skin:
Tanning Oil For Dry Skin
- 8 tablespoons avocado, walnuts, wheat germ oil, or sesame oils.
- Use a few teaspoons of each calendula and patchouli oil.
Tropical Tanning Oil
- One cup of coconut oils
- Avocado, walnut oil, or sesame oils: 8 tsp.
- Pour a delicious aroma, add a few drops of vanilla or coconut oil.
UV Radiation-Neutralizing Tanning Oil
- One cup of coconut oils
- Brew green tea in 2 cups.
- Eight teaspoons of walnut oils.
Tanning Oil for People with Fairer Complexion
- One cup of olive oil
- 2 teaspoons carrot or raspberry seed oils
- 8 tsp avocado oil.
- Use a few drops of sandalwood oil to add a subtle aroma.
Limit sunbathing
It is crucial to know your skin tone and type. For those with fair complexions, limit sun exposure to only two hours a day. Keep a close eye on your skin’s condition, as even this duration might be too long for some.
When it comes to face tanning, it’s essential to remember that it’s more delicate than the rest of your body. Dermatologists suggest tanning for only ten minutes at a time. Overdoing this time may cause premature aging, wrinkles and dark spots on the skin.
Before you begin sun tanning, it’s a good idea to cleanse your skin. This will remove the dead skin cells and open your pores to give you a more uniform tan.
How to get a fake tan
Are you looking for that perfect tan? Unfortunately, any tanning will damage your skin. Self-tanning is the best option to achieve a golden color. These modern formulations can be applied easily, and they produce a uniform, natural-looking colour.
Beach Safety: Take extra precautions
Remember that the water in the ocean can have an impact on your sun safety routine. Consider waterproof sunscreen that protects you even underwater. Make sure you put on the sunscreen as soon as you get out of the water if you don’t have a waterproof variant.
Be aware of water’s cooling properties. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), UV rays can be reflected off of water, snow or sand beaches. This increases the risk. While the beach’s water may keep you cool, the UV rays may be enhanced, and you run the risk of burning faster than usual.
Apply moisturizer to skin after tanning
Remember to moisturize after you have a sun-kissed tan! It’s essential for replenishing moisture and nourishing your skin. By applying a soothing lotion, you’ll aid in its recovery and get it ready for the next round of sun exposure. Keep in mind that your skin requires time to hydrate and recharge. Keep in mind this golden rule when tanning: Hydrate your skin continuously.
Choose the best time to tan
The timing is crucial for a perfect tan. According to science on tanning guidelines, the best time to tan is before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. We often mistakenly wait until noon, thinking that’s when the sun is strongest. The sun is at its strongest during the afternoon and evening hours. Tanning in these off-peak times will protect your skin against direct rays.
The “shadow technique” is a valuable way to gauge UV severity. Just stand and observe the height of your shadow – the taller it is, the less UV light you’re getting.
The Don’ts
Exfoliate and wax only after the tanning season
If you remove dead skin before tanning, it will cause irritation, inflammation, and may result in a sunburn. Are you looking for an all-natural remedy? Use a mixture of crushed oatmeal, olive oil and salt to exfoliate the skin two or three days before.
Never drink alcohol before tanning
Alcohol is a diuretic and makes you sweat, just as the sun. This means that if you’re out in the sun and drinking alcohol, you can become dehydrated much quicker than usual. When your body is dehydrated UV damage is more likely. Stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol when you are in the sun. This will protect your skin.
Never use an artificial bronzer if it’s not necessary
Bronzers are able to darken the skin and give you a fake tan. However, they also have their drawbacks. Many bronzers have abrasives, cheap chemicals and other ingredients that can irritate the skin and cause allergies.
It’s especially important to stay away from tanning products that contain mineral oil, a petroleum byproduct that has been linked to cancer and can clog pores.
Choose tanning cream instead. You can still get a natural looking tan if you don’t want to be embarrassed by a spray-tan.
No Retina products in sunlight
Faces are more sensitive to sunlight than other parts of the body. Take extra precaution when you expose your face to it. Retinoids should be avoided in direct sunlight. While Retin-A is great for your skin, it makes your skin more susceptible to the sun’s rays, especially if you’re looking for younger-looking skin. Retina is best used at night, and sunscreen should be worn during the day.
Don’t stay out all day
Reduce your exposure to UV rays, and avoid tanning when it’s hot. Sun exposure can harm your skin. Find the right balance to avoid burnt skin and an unattractive appearance.
Don’t use tanning beds
Even though they don’t burn as quickly as the sun, use them occasionally. Avoiding overexposure is the key! Avoid staying in the tanning bed for too long. Once you’re done, hydrate your skin and give it a few days before tanning again. Don’t forget about protecting your eyes too! Lastly, if you plan to tan, it’s best to avoid wearing makeup that can clog your pores.
Never let the sun bake you.
If you’ve applied sunscreen, you might assume it’s okay to lay in the sun for several hours but avoid baking during that time. If you have to sunbathe, do it in the early or late afternoon.
Tanning Questions Most Asked
How long should a beginner tan?
Gradually increase the tanning time by 5-10 minutes every five minutes. Make sure to pay attention to your skin’s reaction. Don’t overdo it, so avoid staying in the sun for more than 1.5 to 2 hours.
Can tanning darken your skin?
Yes, tanning is a way to darken your skin. There are many factors that can cause your skin to darken, such as tanning bed intensity or exposure time. Speak to a dermatologist about the best options depending on your skin type.
What foods accelerate tanning?
Lemons, celery and other citrus fruits contain a component called psoralen that enhances the photosynthesis of skin. Just by touching these foods, your skin can become more sensitive to the sun. Therefore, avoiding handling them or washing your hands thoroughly after contact while you’re out enjoying the sunshine is advisable.
Bottom line
We can’t wait for those lazy pool and beach days that come with the arrival of summer. While having fun, it’s essential to keep our skin sun-protected, which can be a major threat. Although spending time in the sun is beneficial to our vitamin D and mental health, we should be cautious. Sun exposure is beneficial but excessive sun exposure can cause harm. To achieve a perfect, even tan, follow the above tanning dos and don’ts for beginners to achieve a flawless, even tan. Enjoy the sun safely and responsibly.