If you’re in a hurry to achieve that stunning sun-kissed glow and turn heads with your radiant skin, you don’t need to double down on endless hours under the sun or increase time in a tanning bed. Let’s be real—that’s not the secret to getting that admirable tan. Instead, there are smarter, more effective ways to fast-track your golden glow without compromising your skin’s health. So, before we dive into the game-changing tips, ask yourself: How fast do you need that tan, and what’s your ultimate tanning goal? Once you’ve got that figured out, you’ll be ready to glow up—literally. Let’s get started!
Why Do You Need to Tan Faster?
Before diving into the tips, it’s essential to figure out why you need to speed up the tanning process. Is there a special event creeping up on your calendar—maybe a wedding, a vacation, or a photoshoot—where you need that glowing golden tan ASAP? If so, our tip #1 is your ultimate solution.
On the other hand, if you’re just a busy bee juggling a packed schedule with no time for tanning salons or hours in the sun, don’t worry. We’ve got practical tips tailored to help you tan faster without the hassle.
How Much Faster Can You Tan?
Let’s set realistic expectations upfront. These tips won’t magically transform your skin into a bronzed dream overnight. Achieving a truly flawless tan still requires some patience and consistency. That said, these tricks will speed up the process, getting you closer to your ideal tan faster than traditional methods. Ready to get glowing? Let’s jump into the tips!
Tip #1: A Hero That You Need When You’re In a Rush: Spray Tanning
If you’re staring down the clock with less than a week until your big event, here’s the hard truth: a tanning bed or sunbathing won’t cut it. Achieving that rich, golden glow in just a few days isn’t realistic with traditional tanning methods. But don’t panic. There’s a hero in the tanning world ready to save the day: spray tanning.
Now, if you’re new to spray tanning, you might be harboring a few doubts. Will you end up looking orange? Could it stain your outfit? Will the tan just vanish too quickly? Rest assured, these are just myths, and we’ve debunked them all in our blog post, so don’t forget to check those out for peace of mind.
Here’s a little secret for achieving an ultra-natural spray tan: it’s all about preparation. The better you prep your skin, the smoother and more flawless your tan will look. We’ve got a detailed guide on how to properly prepare for a spray tan so you can walk into your event glowing with confidence, stress-free.
Pro Tip: If you’re opting for a spray tan and want next-level results, consider our exclusive service, “The Perfect Tan in One Day.” It’s a three-step process designed for optimal color and longevity:
- Skin Wellness Pro: Preps your skin for maximum results, ensuring the tan lasts longer and fades evenly.
- Luxury Sunbed: Builds a subtle base for a more natural, seamless glow.
- Spray Booth: Tailors the perfect shade for your skin, 2-4 shades darker, with results that last up to 7 days.
Tip #2: Use the Right Products
If you’ve got some time to work on your tan and prefer the traditional route—whether it’s soaking up the sun or spending a few sessions in a tanning bed—using the right products can make all the difference. Tanning lotions are your secret weapon for speeding up the process while keeping your skin nourished and radiant. Here are two top picks you’ll want in your tanning arsenal:
Indulge Intensifier
Perfect for beginners, the Indulge Intensifier is your go-to lotion for building a natural, sun-kissed base tan. Its colorless formula is gentle on the skin, packed with ultra-hydrating ingredients to keep your skin moisturized and smooth throughout the tanning process. The lotion also contains accelerators that boost your skin’s ability to tan, cutting down the time you need to achieve those golden results.
Indulge Bronzer
For those looking for an even quicker boost of color, the Indulge Bronzer is a game-changer. Its blend of natural and cosmetic bronzing ingredients gives you an immediate color boost right after your tanning session. Plant-based and gentle on sensitive skin, it enhances your tan with multiple accelerators for a deep, long-lasting glow.
Using the right tanning products doesn’t just speed up the process. It enhances the quality of your tan while keeping your skin healthy and glowing.
Tip #3: Good Preparation Is Half the Results
When it comes to tanning, whether you’re basking in the sun, hitting the tanning bed, or opting for a spray tan, preparation is the key to success. Think of it this way: a smooth canvas creates a flawless masterpiece. Here’s what you need to focus on:
Exfoliate to Remove Dead Skin Cells
Exfoliating is non-negotiable if you want that perfect tan. Dead skin cells on the surface of your skin can create uneven patches, causing your tan to look blotchy or fade faster in certain areas. A good exfoliation removes this barrier, allowing your tan to develop evenly and stick around longer. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or mitt a day or two before your tanning session to create a smooth, refreshed surface.
Keep Your Skin Hydrated
Hydrated skin is happy skin, and it tans better too. Dry skin can lead to streaks, flakiness, and an uneven tone—definitely not what you want when aiming for that golden glow. After exfoliating, apply a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer to lock in hydration. Be sure to choose tanning-friendly products that are free from harsh ingredients, as these can actually work against your tanning goals. For the best results, we recommend using our Indulge Tanning Extender, specifically formulated to nourish your skin while enhancing and prolonging your tan. Look for products that absorb quickly and don’t leave a residue, as heavy creams can interfere with tanning products or natural UV absorption.
Start with a Clean Slate
Whether you’re using a tanning lotion, sunbathing, or getting a spray tan, starting with clean, product-free skin is crucial. Oils, perfumes, deodorants, and leftover skincare products can create a barrier, preventing even absorption and causing streaks or discoloration. Wash your skin thoroughly before tanning to ensure it’s free of any residues.
Tip #4: Don’t Forget About Diet
Your skin’s ability to tan isn’t just about what you put on it. It’s also about what you put in your body. A healthy, balanced diet can work wonders for your skin, making it more moisturized and ready to tan evenly. Here are some tips and tricks to tweak your nutrition for that perfect golden glow:
Boost Your Beta-Carotene Intake
Foods rich in beta-carotene, like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and kale, can give your skin a natural glow while enhancing its ability to tan. Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body, which promotes healthy skin and may even provide a slight tint to your complexion, giving you a head start on that sun-kissed look.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is key to keeping your skin soft, supple, and ready to tan evenly. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dryness and flakiness, which can lead to uneven tanning. You can also incorporate hydrating foods like cucumbers, oranges, and melons to boost your water intake.
Get Your Healthy Fats
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, play a big role in maintaining your skin’s elasticity and hydration. Healthy, well-moisturized skin tans better and holds its color longer, so make sure to include these in your meals.
Include Antioxidant-Rich Foods
Antioxidants like vitamins C and E, found in citrus fruits, berries, nuts, and seeds, protect your skin from oxidative damage caused by UV exposure. These nutrients also help rejuvenate your skin, ensuring it stays healthy and glowing as you work on your tan.
Final Thoughts
By following these four effective tips—choosing spray tanning when you’re short on time, using the right tanning products, properly preparing your skin, and incorporating skin-nourishing foods into your diet—you’ll fast-track your journey to a radiant, even tan.
