There’s nothing quite like stepping out of a tanning bed, feeling that warm glow embracing your skin. You look in the mirror and, voila, you’re gorgeous! But achieving and maintaining that perfect, even tan doesn’t just stop there.
That’s why we’re here to share our top post-tanning bed care tips to ensure that your sun-kissed glow is not only even and flawless but also long-lasting.
Do You Actually Need to Cool Down?
You’ve probably heard or read it somewhere that you should cool down after your tanning session. But is this just another tanning myth or is there some truth to it? Well, we’re here to set the record straight.
Yes, of course! Cooling down post-tan is not just a good idea, it’s essential for preserving that beautiful bronze you’ve just acquired.
Think about it, your skin has just been exposed to intense UV light. This is not your average sun; it’s a concentrated dose aimed at accelerating the tanning process. While this helps you achieve that golden glow faster, it also means your skin needs some time to recover.
So, what’s the best course of action? Give your skin some time to cool down naturally. We recommend waiting at least 30 minutes to an hour after your tanning session before you hit the shower.
Wear Loose Clothing
If you think the main purpose of wearing loose clothing post-tan is to prevent your clothes from rubbing off your fresh glow, then we’re here to bust that myth wide open! While it’s true that tight clothing can cause some discomfort and potential streaking, that’s not the primary reason we recommend going for the looser options in your wardrobe after a tanning session.
After a tanning session, your skin is in a sensitive state. It’s just had a dose of UV rays and needs some care. Tight clothing can cause unnecessary friction and potentially irritate your freshly tanned skin. Loose clothing, on the other hand, allows your skin to breathe and recover without any added stress. Think soft, flowy dresses, baggy shirts, or wide-leg pants.
In addition, the last thing you want is to step out of the tanning salon and expose your skin to additional UV rays from the sun. So wearing clothing that covers a lot of your skin helps shield it and prevents any potential sunburn.
Post-Tanning Skin Care Based on the Number of Your Sessions
First Session: If this is your first session, your skin may react differently than expected. The initial exposure to UV light can leave your skin a bit shocked, so it’s crucial to give it some extra TLC. Hydrate your skin with a good quality, fragrance-free moisturizer right after your session and throughout the next few days. Also, remember to drink plenty of water to hydrate from the inside out.
Building Your Base Tan: As you continue your tanning sessions to develop your base tan, your skin will start to adapt to the UV exposure. However, this doesn’t mean you should slack on your post-tanning care. Continue moisturizing regularly to keep your skin nourished and your tan even. Start introducing a tan extender into your routine to help maintain the color.
Maintaining Your Desired Tan: Once you’ve achieved your desired tan, your post-tan care routine should be focused on maintaining that gorgeous glow. This is the time to invest in a good quality tan extender that will help prolong your tan.
What Kind Of Tan Extender to Use?
Look for extenders that are packed with natural, skin-loving ingredients. Aloe Vera, for instance, is a fantastic ingredient due to its soothing and moisturizing properties. Vitamins A, C, and E are also beneficial as they help protect the skin. Hyaluronic Acid is another great one as it helps to retain moisture in the skin, keeping it hydrated and helping your tan last longer.
Now, let’s talk about our favorite extender – the Indulge Extender. You can find it at any GloTanning location. Our tan extenders are free of harsh ingredients like sulfates, oils, alcohol, and parabens, which can compromise the longevity and quality of your tan. So, next time you’re in for a tanning session, don’t forget to pick up a bottle to maintain your tan while ensuring it stays healthy and vibrant.
Tips for Moisturizing Your Skin
- Choose the Right Moisturizer: Look for a hydrating moisturizer that’s free from harsh chemicals and alcohol, as these can dry out your skin and fade your tan.
- Apply Liberally and Evenly: Don’t skimp on your moisturizer. Apply it liberally all over your body, paying special attention to areas that tend to dry out faster, like elbows, knees, and ankles. Make sure to spread it evenly for a uniform glow.
- Daily Moisturizing is Key: Make moisturizing a daily ritual. Your skin needs consistent hydration to maintain a healthy tan.
- Don’t Forget to Exfoliate: Exfoliating once a week will help remove dead skin cells and allow your moisturizer to penetrate deeper into your skin. Just be gentle to avoid scrubbing away your tan!
Taking Care of Your Skin Through Diet
What you eat and drink can directly affect the health of your skin and the longevity of your tan. So, let’s dish up some diet tips to help you maintain that sun-kissed glow.
- Water is your skin’s best friend. Staying well-hydrated helps keep your skin plump and moisturized from the inside, which in turn helps your tan last longer. So, make sure you’re drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day.
- Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, dark chocolate, and nuts, can help protect your skin from damage. They aid in skin repair and can help prolong your tan by maintaining healthy skin cells.
- Vitamins A, C, and E are particularly beneficial for your skin. Foods like carrots, oranges, and almonds are packed with these vitamins and can help keep your skin healthy and your tan fresh.
- Both alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate your skin, which can cause your tan to fade faster. Try to limit your intake of these, especially right after a tanning session.
Don’t Forget to Use Sunscreen
Even though you’ve achieved a beautiful tan, your skin, especially right after a tanning session, is more sensitive to the sun’s UV rays. Going out in the sun without protection can lead to sunburn and premature aging.
So, no matter how bronzed you are, don’t forget to slap on that sunscreen. Your skin will thank you, and your tan will look better for longer. Want to learn more about actual post-tanning products? Here’s our list of the best post-tanning products.
Final Thoughts
Achieving that perfect post-tanning glow requires more than just stepping out of a tanning bed; it demands a dedicated care routine to preserve and enhance your newly acquired bronze.
Your efforts in post-tan care will not only extend the life of your tan but also ensure your skin remains healthy, glowing, and beautiful.
