The look of beautifully tanned, sun-kissed skin has been the most desirable natural appearance for years, especially in the summer. If you're a fan of the bronzed look even after your vacation, the best way to achieve it is by following simple and highly effective expert tips.
Cosmeticians and dermatologists often shower us with advice
on how to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun, how to keep it
hydrated and soft during the hottest days, and they have a few key tips that
will help you maintain your lovely tan.
Follow these tips and keep your tan glowing until the end of
October.
SHOWER WITH LUKEWARM WATER
One thing is clear—if you want your sun-kissed glow to last
as long as possible, avoid showering with hot water. Hot water dries out the
skin, dehydrates it, and speeds up the shedding of skin cells, which will cause
your tan to fade faster. Generally, avoid long baths and showers in warm water.
HYDRATE YOUR BODY'S SKIN
During the hot summer days, after exposure to the sea and
sun, your skin needs deep hydration the most. Skin hydration is extremely
important before, during, and after sunbathing. You can hydrate your skin with
various products, such as creams, lotions, or oils—just make sure to use them
daily, even twice a day. You can also get specialized after-sun products that
often contain ingredients that help naturally maintain your tan while
nourishing your skin from within.
DRINK PLENTY OF FLUIDS
It’s not enough to just apply lotions to keep your body and
skin hydrated. Make sure you drink enough fluids, ideally water, as this will
prolong the life of all the cells in your body, including those on the surface
of your skin that have darkened.
REGULAR EXFOLIATION
Although many might instinctively think that exfoliating
will remove their tan, they would be mistaken. Exfoliation removes dead skin
cells and actually prepares the skin ideally for sunbathing. After exfoliation,
your skin is fresh and clean, and the color you already have will last longer
as it won’t dry out or peel off. But don't overdo it—exfoliate approximately
every two weeks.
EAT FOOD RICH IN BETA CAROTENE
Carrots, mangoes, apricots, peppers (red, orange, yellow),
sweet potatoes, berries, red apples, and almost any orange-colored fruit and
vegetable are rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene, which are responsible for
the tanned look of your skin. Vitamin C is important for collagen production,
while carotenoids are responsible for the darkening of the skin and maintaining
its tan. So, in the summer, fill your plate with orange and yellow fruits and
vegetables, which will help you keep your tan longer while providing your body
with sufficient amounts of all the necessary minerals and vitamins.