Let’s face it, most of us look – and feel – better with a tan. That healthy glow we get from prolonged exposure to the sun makes us simply radiate health.
Unfortunately, though, nowadays, we know that’s a bit of a misnomer. Yes, it’s great to get a bit of sun on your skin. Sunlight boosts our vitamin D levels and helps strengthen the bones. But being under those rays for too long isn’t great for our skin – it dries it up, causes premature ageing and, in the worst scenario, can lead to melanoma. That’s not healthy skin.
And that’s why, when spending time in the sun, it’s important to use a quality sunscreen product – regularly. The higher the SPF factor, the longer the protection your skin will have. At Vale Laser Clinic, we stock a range of skin care products with broad spectrum UV protection starting from SPF 15 all the way up to SPF 42. This is in liquid or matt powder form, while we also have non-oily facial protection mist (great for using after you’ve applied make-up).
Getting the most from your sunscreen
Sunscreen should be applied within 20 minutes of going outdoors and feeling those lovely rays. And make sure you reapply it every couple of hours – especially if you go in the sea or a swimming pool. Don’t miss out your ears, toes and scalp either…
Health experts recommend an SPF of 30 to block out UVA and UVB and still get a tan. But don’t stay out longer than two to three hours. After that length of time, you won’t tan further anyway, say sun experts. What you will do, though, is expose your body to too much melanin and the possibility of skin cancer.
The best time to be out is in the mornings and after 3pm when the sun’s rays aren’t as strong. If you’re lying down on a stretcher or towel, then make sure you change your position regularly. Not only will your tan look more even, but you’ll also prevent burning any one specific area of your body.
@Healthline: “Prep before you tan. Preparing your skin before heading outdoors can help your tan last longer. Try exfoliating your skin before tanning. Skin that hasn’t been exfoliated is more likely to flake off. Using an aloe vera gel after tanning may also help your tan last longer.”
Eat the right tanning foods
Yes, there are foods you can eat that will make your tan look better. Nutritionists say those that contain beta carotene, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and kale, can reduce sun sensitivity for those who burn easily.
Avocado, raspberry, coconut and carrots all contain lycopene which studies have shown can provide added hydration and SPF protection in the sun.
Use a fake tanning lotion
You can still get a tan while using fake tanning lotion, so always remember to put on SPF protection after you’ve applied the fake tan. As your natural tan builds up, you can start using less fake tan until eventually, you won’t need it anyway.
Get in touch
Vale Laser Clinic’s Clinical Director Emma Griffiths has been helping clients with their skincare routine for years. Book a free skin consultation on 01446 750 880.
