Sydney weather has us bringing out the umbrellas and coats already and it’s still February! The lack of sun has forced even the most fearless of beach browners to bronze up with a fake bake to keep up their summer glow.
MORE: Best ‘Fake It Till You Make It’ At-Home Tans
Whether it’s a professional spray tan, a mousse or mist there are things you can do to prolong your tan, because even the best tan will fade quickly if you don’t treat it right. The average lifespan of a professional tan is between 5 days to a week or even longer if you do it right, so read on for our tips on how to make your tan last longer.
Tip #1: Always exfoliate before application
You should always exfoliate before a tan to rid your body of dead skin cells that sit on the surface of your skin. If you don’t remove the dead skin cells, they will remove your tan quicker than you can say ‘exfoliation mitt’. By exfoliating before your tan, you set yourself up with a nice, clean, smooth surface so that your tan can be absorbed better, thus making it last longer.
The exfoliation should be done the night before your tan to give your body a chance to recover. You should also shave before a tan so that you don’t have to shave while you have one, as it strips the top layer of the skin, which will make your tan fade quickly.
Tip #2: Moisturise, moisturise and a little more moisturise
You need to keep your skin hydrated so that it doesn’t dry out. Dry skin can make your tan patchy and uneven. You should moisturise at least twice a day to keep skin hydrated. Some tanning solutions can also dry out the skin, making it thirsty, so make sure you’re listening to your body and keep it moisturised.
Tip #3: Stay away from water before your first shower
Water is your enemy before your first shower. Washing the dishes, washing your hands or brushing your teeth can potentially cause a threat to your tan. Drinking out of a straw is a good way to protect the tan around your mouth from water hitting the skin when you’re drinking out of a glass. Getting water on your tan can cause it to streak and run and produce white spots, which are unsightly.
Tip #4: Take care when showering
Avoid anything harsh on the skin like loufas or body scrubs as this will fade the tan. This also includes being wary of the products that you use. Avoid any oil based products also.
Tip #5: Keep hydrated from the inside
Make sure your body is getting enough water to stay hydrated. Drinking lots of fluids during the day will help your skin stay hydrated and your tan last longer. It’s also really good for you and will make you feel great!
Tip #6: Top it up
Top up your tan with a bronzer or gradual tanning moisturiser to keep up your glow until your next tan.
Taking care of your tan will stop it from streaking and becoming patchy, which doesn’t look too fab. This also makes it easier for a tan the next time around, as it will need an even touch up instead of having to navigate uneven areas.
Images via sttopeztan.com
