Tips for keeping a glowy tan throughout the summer – and after – abound. Should you believe them all? The answer’s right here.
Exfoliation makes the tan fade
False. On the contrary, ridding the skin of dead cells is a great way to enhance your tan’s glow. Therefore, use a gentle, fine-grained scrub regularly during the summer. For best results, apply it on wet skin, once a week for the face and twice a week for the rest of the body. If you prefer, you can use an exfoliating glove to apply your usual skincare products: this method is just as efficient. However, peelings, waxes and depilatory lotions should be avoided: as they remove, in part, the upper layer of the skin, they also reach the pigments at the origin of the tan.
Stay hydrated, stay tanned
True. We know the drying effect of the sun: who hasn’t ended up with a layer of dead skin after spending too much time outside? To maintain the intensity of your tan, you must avoid desquamation. For this reason why we multiply thirst-quenching treatments: use a moisturizing shower gel, we apply a formula based on thermal water on our face, it is coated with a cream or (even better) a moisturizing oil ... and don’t forget to drink lots of water! In addition to stimulating cell renewal, a high intake of water revives natural radiance of the complexion: the key to a golden complexion.
It’s a good idea to swap your night cream for an after-sun cream
True… and false. After-sun and night cream share several functions: rich in nourishing and moisturizing agents, both soften the skin and allow it to regenerate after suffering external aggression. The antioxidants in the after-sun cream also strengthen cell defences against UV rays: apply it every night during the summer to create a shield that preserves the skin... and your tan! As a bonus, since they need to be absorbed quickly, after-sun products often have a light texture: ideal for cooling the skin and allowing it to breathe during hot summer nights.
A reminder, though: night creams are specifically formulated to help the skin regenerating itself after the aggressions of the day. Using only an aftersun would deprive you of their rejuvenating effect. The best solution is still to combine the two products.
So-called "tan prolonging" products boost sales more than your complexion
False. These serums, creams and other treatments stimulate the production of melanin - the tanning pigment. Result? By using these products morning and evening, you can extend the duration of your tan by approximately six weeks. A little self-tanner can also give a boost to your complexion.
A high SPF sunscreen prevents tanning
Absolutely false! No sunscreen provides total protection. An index of 50 or 60 still allows UVB rays to penetrate, which activates melanin. In fact, the higher the SPF, the more evenly the tan develops, without the risk of burning. In addition, protecting the skin properly slows down aging and prevents the appearance of brown spots.
Hot water can make a tan fade faster
True. Prolonged baths and hot showers can dehydrate the skin and fade the complexion. Lukewarm water is a better choice. What could be more refreshing after a day in the sun?