Have you ever wondered how to gain the perfect tan? A bronzed skin tone is usually an indicator of health and well-being and can be easily achieved without expensive trips to the tanning salon. If you want to gain the “sun-kissed” look and welcome in the summer, outdoor tanning with the aid of natural sunlight can give the results you want. As anyone who has ever had a painful sunburn can tell you, you have to be careful, but following the tips below can ensure a safe, free and enjoyable method of tanning.
Many people use indoor tanning salons, which are an option for those who live in perpetually overcast areas or cannot afford the few hours of sun exposure to get a full tan. However, natural tans do have a much more natural look and does not cost any money out of pocket. During the spring and summer it is a common sight to see people tanning themselves on their lawns and at beaches, but a healthy tan can be achieved anytime a person is outside and has exposed skin. Even playing, camping, and yard work can add to a tan – and without the added risk of falling asleep and getting more sun exposure than is healthy.
Exfoliating
Many celebrities credit exfoliating with their gorgeous tans. is the process of removing dead skin from one’s body, which exposes a new and healthy layer of skin. A gentle scrubbing with a sponge and exfoliating body scrub before applying sunscreen will make a tan last longer and keep it even.
Sunscreen
“Applying sunscreen?” Yes, as contradictory as it may sound, sunscreen is an important part of tanning. Sunscreen with an SPF of 10-15 is ideal for tanners as it will protect skin from dangerous rays and allow the tan to build gradually which prevents sunburns or a reddish tan. Make sure to cover all exposed parts of skin evenly to avoid an uneven tan – don’t forget the backs of elbows and knees.
Take Time
A healthy and natural tan takes time to develop. Spending one to two hours a day tanning is enough for most people, and will let the tan build on itself. The American Medical Association recommends avoiding sun exposure during peak hours (generally 10am to 2pm), and tanning during those hours may give a deeper tan or even cross over into sunburn territory.
An All Over Tan
If you are going for an all over tan, make sure to expose all parts of the body to the sun equally. Lying on your stomach for 45 minutes and on your back for 10 minutes will make the tan on your back much deeper. Also, make sure to fully expose all areas you want tanned – that includes spreading out your elbows to get the inner arms tan and making sure the backs of your knees are exposed as well.
After Tanning
A brief shower after a sun tanning session will help get rid of all the sunscreen and re-hydrate the skin. Dry skin is unhealthy and may peel or not maintain the tan very well. Gently rubbing a washcloth is usually enough to remove the sunscreen and prevent the tan from peeling. Immediately after the shower apply a good moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and supple.
How to Prolong the Tan
If you follow the steps above and properly care for your skin, a lasting tan can be achieved with little effort. During the winter months when sunlight is scarce or not an option there are tanning creams that can be used to supplement the natural tan. Keeping your skin healthy and nourished through proper nutrition and hydration is the easiest way to maintain your tan.
