Sunlight boosts your levels of serotonin, not only that, but it produces vitamin D which is beneficially for our hair, skin, nails and bones. However, all these benefits cannot outweigh the negative aspects like premature ageing and skin cancer risks that come hand in hand with sun exposure. So whilst that sun kissed bronzed glow is what we are all dying to achieve, there’s no denying that the risks far outweigh the benefits. Here is a look at six ways you can safely achieve bronzed summer skin, without causing premature ageing.
1. Always apply the right sunscreen
Rather than just relying on the SPF written on the bottle, you need to keep an eye out for the term 'broad spectrum', which simply means you will be protected from both UVA and UVB rays.
Pick an SPF30 over SPF50. SPF30 filters 97% of UVB rays, whilst SPF50 filters 98%. The SPF50 however can be so chalky and leave a white cast, and this false sense of security means most people forget to reapply it every two hours like you should.
2. Seek out the shade
If you are out in the sunshine, taking regular sun tanning breaks will reduce your risk of sunburn and UV exposure leaving you with a much healthier and longer lasting tan.
3. Stay covered
As well as taking sun breaks and sitting in the shade, don't forget to cover up with the right clothing. A sun hat and beach umbrella will not only protect your skin, it looks super cute too!
4. Always use a mitt
When it comes to sunless tanning, always apply with a mitt. A tanning mitt ensures a streak free and even application of the tanning product. Choose between applying one coat and two, two is usually ideal in Summer. Try flipping the mitt back to front when you apply the tan to your back, this approach helps keep the tan even all over.
5. Prolong the colour
To make sure your tan endures, its important to stay hydrated. This means drinking lots of water and applying a moisturiser or body butter daily. A gradual tan extender is a great option too, this allows your colour to stay rich and deep for extended periods of time.
6. Prep your canvas (YOU, your body)
No matter which fake tan you decide to use, the product is only as good as the canvas you’re working with. To prep your skin for a perfect tan, hit the shower with an exfoliant. Do this by opting for a coffee or sugar scrub and dry body brushing.
Here are our top tanning and pre-tanning body products to try this Summer:
1. Tan Bomb Exfoliating Tanning Mitt Lilac
The perfect mitt for a streak free application.
2. Sunescape Self Tanning Mousse - Week In Fiji (Medium)
This tanning mouse is available in different shades and will leave you with a nice subtle bronzed glow, for a deeper tan allow to dry and reapply another layer until the desired colour is reached.
3. Sunescape Just For The Night Wash Off Pack
This is the ultimate tan goals pack! It contains everything you need for that summer complexion.
4. Sunescape Exfoliating Body Polish
Prep your skin with this body polish 24 hours before tanning to maximise your tan's look & life.
5. Ecococo Peppermint & Charcoal Body Scrub
This scrub not only preps your skin for the even application of a tan, but the addition of the charcoal helps eliminate and heal body acne.
Tired of your tan or simply need to remove it so you can reapply a fresh one? This is your go-to product. Simply place in the bath and relax whilst you let this little pink bomb do all the work.
