We’re here to dish out the golden secrets to achieving the perfect tan all year round. Now, you might be thinking, “A tan in winter? Impossible!” But with the right tips and tricks up your sleeve, you can achieve a healthy glow no matter the season.
The key lies in understanding that your approach to tanning should shift with the weather. Just like you wouldn’t wear a bikini in a blizzard, you shouldn’t stick to your summer tanning routine in the colder months. Let’s see how different seasons impact your tanning routine.
The Impact of Seasonal Changes on Your Skin
As the seasons change, so does our skin. It’s a little chameleon, adapting to the external conditions, and it’s our job to support it through these transitions.
In the sizzling summer months, our skin tends to produce more oil due to the heat and humidity. This can actually be a tanning advantage, as well-moisturized skin tans better and holds onto the color longer. However, it’s crucial to remember sun protection during this time. The sun’s rays are the strongest, and while we do love a good tan, we certainly don’t want to invite sunburn.
As we move into fall, the air gets drier, and so does our skin. This can lead to flaky, uneven skin texture, not the ideal canvas for a beautiful tan.
Winter, the cold nemesis of a good tan, can be particularly harsh on our skin. The cold, dry air can suck the moisture right out of our skin, leaving it dry, tight, and uncomfortable.
As spring rolls around, our skin starts to recover from winter’s harshness. With the weather warming up, skin might start to get oilier. This is the perfect time to refresh your skincare routine and prepare your skin for the upcoming summer tan.
Knowing how to deal with these seasonal changes is essential to maintain a perfect tan year-round.
Spring: Preparing for the Sun
After a long, dry winter, your skin might be sporting a layer of dead skin cells that could make your tan look patchy. Opt for a gentle scrub or an exfoliating brush to slough off that winter skin. Remember, the most important word here is ‘gentle.’ You don’t want to irritate your skin; you just want to remove the dead cells and reveal the fresh skin underneath.
As tempting as it might be to lie in the sun for hours, we recommend starting slow. Gradual tanning options, like lighter self-tanning lotions or spending short periods in the tanning booths or beds, can help build a base tan without risking a burn.
Summer: Peak Tanning Season
One of the best ways to achieve a perfect tan during summer is indoor tanning. It is great because you can control your tan and reduce the risk of sunburn. The trick is moderation. Overdoing it on the tanning bed can be just as harmful as overexposure to the sun. So, keep your sessions short and sweet, and always use a tanning bed lotion to keep your skin moisturized and protected.
For those of you who prefer the natural route, outdoor tanning can be a blissful experience. But remember, the summer sun is no joke. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating. Try to avoid tanning during the peak sunlight hours (10 am to 4 pm) when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
Hydration is another key factor in maintaining a beautiful summer tan. And no, it’s not only about drinking water (though you should definitely do that too!). Your skin needs external hydration to prevent dryness and peeling. Invest in a good after-sun lotion (make sure to check out our Indulge Extender) to soothe and hydrate your skin after a day in the sun.
Autumn: Maintaining Your Summer Glow
As the sun starts to play hide and seek, your tanning schedule might also need a bit of a tweak. With fewer daylight hours, you might need to be more intentional with your tanning time. Try to catch some rays during the lunch hour when the sun is still relatively strong.
In addition, sunbeds can be a great way to keep your tan going strong. Remember to keep sessions short and use a lotion specifically designed for tanning beds to protect your skin. For those who prefer a sunless option, spray tanning can be a fantastic way to maintain your glow.
When it comes to skincare, hydration and exfoliation remain your best friends in fall. As the air gets drier, amp up your moisturizing routine to prevent your skin (and your tan) from flaking off. A gentle weekly exfoliation can also help maintain an even skin tone and prolong your tan.
Winter: Smart Tanning in the Colder Months
When the sun is on a winter vacation, spray tans and sunbeds step in to save the day. A spray tan can give you a quick and easy glow without any UV exposure. Just remember to prepare for your session to ensure an even application. Sunbeds offer another option, but it’s important to limit your sessions to avoid overexposure.
Winter can be tough on our skin, often leaving it dry and flaky. This is definitely not the look we’re going for! Amp up your moisturizing routine to keep your skin (and your tan) looking fresh. Look for creams with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which are excellent for locking in moisture. Don’t forget about your lips and hands, they need some love too!
Final Thoughts
A flawless tan is achievable in every season with the right approach. Whether basking under the summer sun or cozying up in a sunbed during the frosty winter, the secret is to listen to your skin and adjust your routine accordingly.
Hydration, protection, and gentle exfoliation are your year-round allies, ensuring that your tan looks radiant and your skin feels healthy, no matter what the calendar says.
So, let’s embrace the change of seasons with confidence and a glowing complexion, showing that a perfect tan isn’t just for summer—it’s a year-round affair.
Hungry for even more tips? Try these tips for a perfect tan.
