Who doesn’t love a golden, sun-kissed tan? Achieving the perfect tan not only adds a healthy glow to your skin but also boosts your confidence. However, tanning without proper knowledge and precautions can lead to sunburn and skin damage.

To help you achieve that flawless tan, we have gathered expert tips that will ensure you get the perfect sun-kissed look while keeping your skin healthy.

1. Choose the Right Time

The right timing is crucial when it comes to getting a perfect tan. Experts suggest that the best time to sunbathe is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. During these hours, the sun’s rays are less intense, reducing the risk of sunburn.

Avoid sunbathing between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., as the sun’s rays are at their strongest during this time.

2. Exfoliate Before Tanning

Before you hit the beach or lay out on a sunbed, make sure to exfoliate your skin. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and allows the fresh skin to absorb the sunlight more efficiently, resulting in a more even and long-lasting tan.

Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or a loofah to achieve the best results.

3. Protect Your Eyes and Lips

While basking in the sun, it’s crucial to protect your eyes and lips. Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, apply lip balm with SPF to avoid sunburn and keep your lips hydrated.

4. Gradually Increase Exposure Time

If you’re new to tanning, it’s essential to start with shorter sessions to avoid sunburn. Begin with 10-15 minutes of sun exposure and gradually increase the time as your skin develops a base tan.

This will help your skin adapt to UV rays and reduce the chance of burning.

5. Use a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

Never underestimate the power of sunscreen, even when you’re aiming for a tan. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously all over your body.

Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or excessive sweating.

6. Hydrate Your Skin

Proper hydration is vital for maintaining healthy skin and ensuring an even tan. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after sun exposure to prevent dehydration.

Moisturize your skin regularly with a lotion or after-sun product to retain moisture and prolong your tan.

7. Rotate for an Even Tan

To achieve an even tan, remember to rotate your body regularly. Whether you’re sunbathing or using a tanning bed, constantly changing your position helps the sunlight reach all areas of your body, avoiding uneven patches or tan lines.

8. Be Mindful of Medications and Fragrances

Some medications and fragrances can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, making you more prone to sunburn. If you’re taking any medications or using fragranced products, read the labels carefully and take precautions accordingly.

Consult with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.

9. Don’t Overdo It

While it’s tempting to spend hours under the sun or in a tanning bed to achieve a deep tan quickly, it’s crucial not to overdo it. Excessive sun exposure can lead to skin damage and increase the risk of developing skin cancer.

Remember to tan in moderation and prioritize the health of your skin.

10. Maintain Your Tan

Once you have achieved the perfect tan, it’s important to maintain it. Moisturize your skin regularly, avoid excessive exfoliation, and limit hot showers, as these can strip away your tan.

Additionally, using special tan-extending products can help prolong your golden glow.