While many people are soaking up the sun this summer in order to build up their tan, this is not a healthy way to achieve that coveted bronzed glow. With so many amazing tanning products on the market, it is easy to boast a beautiful skin tone without putting your health in danger. Here are just a few things to consider as you strive to enjoy a healthy glow all year long.
Avoiding the Sun
Spending too much time in the sun is counterproductive if you are aiming for a flawless complexion. Too much sun will dry out the skin, increase uneven color splotches, and possibly cause burning and peeling. This is all in addition to putting you at an increased risk of developing skin cancer. If you do go out in the sun, it is important to wear a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF. Be sure to reapply sunscreen frequently if you are sweating or in the water. You can also reduce the risk of sunburn by sitting in the shade and wearing protective clothing or a wide-brimmed hat to protect the face.
Keeping Your Skin Healthy
In addition to avoiding the sun, there are steps that you can take that will keep your skin looking as great as it feels. If you are planning on getting a spray tan, you should exfoliate the skin using an oil-free product approximately four hours prior to the appointment. This will prepare the skin to receive the tanning product and ensure that it goes on evenly. You should also be diligent about applying moisturizer frequently to your skin. This will lock in hydration and keep your skin looking healthy and supple.
Getting a Spray Tan
Getting a spray tan is one of the safest ways to achieve glowing skin without putting yourself in the path of the sun’s harmful UV rays. You will be amazed at how quickly your skin transforms to a beautiful bronzed hue after just one session of spray tanning. The best thing about a spray tan is that you can continue to enjoy this color throughout the year since you do not need the sun to achieve the look.
Timing and Fade
How long does a spray tan last? Once you have that perfect bronzed glow achieved, you are going to want to keep it around. The skin will naturally begin to shed old cells after about five days, causing your tan to begin to fade. You should take your first shower after the spray tan approximately four to eight hours after application for the best results. If you want your glow to last longer, be sure to avoid harsh chemicals, rough exfoliation products, steam rooms, and long showers, and tight clothing that rubs against the skin.
Do not settle for anything less than a safe and beautiful tan. With the right technician, skin prep and products, you can enjoy your gorgeous glow all throughout the year. When you work with a professional spray tan technician they will be able to help you with subtle color changes during regular maintenance to keep your glow looking natural for every season.