How to get the perfect tan this summer?
The vacations are fast approaching, and the desire to tan is growing. But how do you get a perfect, even, long-lasting tan?
In this article, we'll be revealing all our beauty tips for achieving a tanned complexion while effectively protecting your skin. Follow our advice to tan intelligently and enjoy the sun safely.
How does tanning work?
Before getting to the heart of the matter, it's important to understand how tanning works. When we are exposed to the sun, our skin reacts by producing melanin, the pigment responsible for skin coloration. The melanocytes in our epidermis are activated to produce this melanin and protect our cells from UV rays.
However, it's crucial not to exceed our sun capital, i.e. our skin's ability to defend itself against the sun's harmful effects. Excessive exposure can lead to skin damage and even promote the development of skin cancer. So it's vital to tan responsibly.
Preparing your skin for a successful tan
Work on your tan before you go! Before exposing yourself to the sun, it's essential to prepare your skin for a luminous, even and long-lasting tan. Here are a few steps to follow:
1. Exfoliate the epidermis
An even, luminous tan calls for exfoliation! It's essential to prepare your skin a few weeks before the big day by removing all the particles and dead cells that could dull the glow we're all dreaming of. The right rhythm? 1 time a week for normal skin; combination to oily skin can exfoliate up to 2 times, but no more! Exfoliating too much could sensitize and aggress skin, resulting in increased sebum production.
Are you a fan of mechanical scrubs? Exfoliating Powder Pureté Arctique gently and sensorially exfoliates and detoxifies thanks to its innovative transformation texture.
Prefer enzymatic scrubs? Our Micro-Peeling Foam Northern Light can be used like a classic cleanser, nibbling away at the particles responsible for dullness in just 30 seconds.
What do they have in common? Their gentle formulas are suitable for all skin types, even sensitive.
When you get back from vacation, remember to keep up the pace! We're often afraid that exfoliating our skin will make our tan "go away", but that's not true! Continue to exfoliate your skin once or twice a week on your return, and you'll be sure to keep your luminous tan for as long as possible.
Pssst: what's good for the face is also good for the body, so remember to exfoliate too.
2. Moisturize
Daily moisturizing is the 2nd essential step in preparing your skin for tanning. Well-moisturized skin is more supple, has a more even texture and reflects light better. Dry, flaky skin is the number 1 enemy of an even tan!
For the face, whatever your skin type, our range Ice Source will be your best ally. Its trio of unique active ingredients (Iceberg Water + Hyaluronic Acid + Seaweed) ensures 24-hour hydration both on the surface and deep down. Normal to dry skin types will appreciate the creamier Crème version, while combination to oily skin types will appreciate the Gelée, with its mattifying powders for shine control. Their marine fragrance will take you on vacation!
Also remember to regularly moisturize your skin with fluid textures that penetrate immediately and allow you to get dressed quickly. Because, as we all know, we're running out of time, and even more so before the vacations! Polar Night Body Moisturizers and The Genuine Lapland Cream both provide long-lasting hydration without a greasy feel. The hardest part is choosing between their equally addictive fragrances!
3. Adopt a suitable diet
Yes, what you eat can help you tan faster and better! Some foods contain specific nutrients that will help you in your quest for the glow of your dreams. Such is the case with foods rich in beta-carotenes, a precursor of vitamin A that stimulates melanin production and helps minimize the aggressive action of the sun's rays on the skin. It's easy to recognize which foods are richest in beta-carotene! These are orange or green vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, mangoes, melons, peppers, spinach and broccoli. What could be better than a cure of seasonal fruits and vegetables to prepare your skin for the sun?
Responsible sun exposure
While preparing your skin for sun exposure is an important step in achieving your dream tan, it's just as important to know how to expose yourself to the sun so you can enjoy all its benefits. Here are a few tips to follow:
1. Choose the right exposure times
To avoid sunburn and achieve a gradual tan, opt for off-peak hours. Expose yourself to the sun between 9 a.m. and 11.30 a.m., then between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Avoid the sun's rays between 12pm and 4pm, as they are more intense and harmful to the skin. Sunburns are more frequent during this period.
2. Use appropriate sun protection
Every time you go out in the sun, you should apply a generous layer of sun protection to the exposed areas, and reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming, perspiring or toweling off.
Opt for a very high SPF sun protection like our Polaar Sun range. Fragrance-free SPF50+ formulas for safe exposure without compromising on sensoriality! Whether you're looking for Sun Care Face Fluid, Sun Care Face and Body Milk or Sun Care Stick, choose the texture and format that suits you best! Their formulas have all been designed for rapid penetration and non-greasy, non-sticky effect, so that exposure to the sun is always a pleasure.
Remember that gradual, gentle tanning is the key to a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing tan. Avoid prolonged, intense exposure, which can damage your skin and may not guarantee a long-lasting tan. Be patient and prioritize quality over speed.
Maintain your tan to make it last longer
You've got a beautiful tan and want to keep it as long as possible? Follow the same steps as before your departure: exfoliate your skin once or twice a week and remember to moisturize it thoroughly after each exposure, but also regularly when you return from vacation.
Happy vacations to all!
