Summer is just around the corner, and it’s time to start thinking about a summer wardrobe, beach trips, and getting the perfect tan.

But before you hit the beach, it’s important to learn the best ways to get a perfect tan every time, while also keeping your skin healthy and youthful. Here’s everything you need to know about getting the perfect tan every time.

Choose the Right Sunscreen

When it comes to tanning, sunscreen is essential. You should apply sunscreen every day, even if you don’t plan to spend much time in the sun.

Make sure you choose a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to breakouts, choose a lightweight sunscreen designed for the face.

Gradual Exposure

If you’re not used to spending time in the sun, or if you’ve been hiding under layers of winter clothing, it’s important to start gradually increasing your sun exposure.

This will help prevent sunburn and will also allow your skin to gradually build up a tan. Start by spending small amounts of time in the sun, and gradually increase the time you spend outside. Remember to always wear sunscreen, even if you’re only outside for a few minutes.

Choose the Right Time of Day

The best time to get a tan is in the morning or late afternoon, when the sun is not as strong. Avoid spending time in the sun between 10 am and 4 pm, when the sun is at its strongest.

This is when the UV rays are at their most intense and can cause the most damage to your skin.

Stay Hydrated

Make sure you drink plenty of water when you’re spending time in the sun. Sun exposure can cause dehydration, which can make your skin look dry and dull.

Drinking water will help keep your skin hydrated and healthy, and will also help prevent sunstroke and other heat-related illnesses.

Exfoliate and Moisturize

Before you start tanning, make sure you exfoliate your skin to remove any dead skin cells. This will help you achieve an even, smooth tan. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub once a week to keep your skin looking great.

After you exfoliate, make sure you moisturize your skin with a good-quality moisturizer. This will help keep your skin soft and supple, and will also help your tan last longer.

Don’t Forget Your Lips and Eyes

When you’re spending time in the sun, it’s not just your skin that needs protection. Your lips and eyes are also vulnerable to sun damage.

Make sure you wear a lip balm with SPF protection, and wear sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.

Choose the Right Tanning Method

There are many different methods for getting a tan, including self-tanners, spray tanning, and tanning beds. Before you choose a method, make sure you understand the risks involved and choose the method that’s best for your skin type.

If you have sensitive skin or are prone to breakouts, it’s best to avoid tanning beds or spray tanning, as these methods can irritate your skin and cause breakouts.

Protect Your Hair

When you’re spending time in the sun, your hair can also suffer damage. The sun can dry out your hair and cause split ends, so make sure you protect your hair from the sun.

Wear a hat or use a leave-in conditioner with UV protection to help keep your hair healthy and shiny.

Take Care of Your Skin After Tanning

After you’ve spent time in the sun, it’s important to take care of your skin. Make sure you apply a good-quality moisturizer to help your skin recover from sun damage.

If you’ve spent a lot of time in the sun, make sure you drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Always wear sunscreen, even if you’re not planning to spend much time in the sun.

Conclusion

Getting the perfect tan requires more than just lying in the sun. It’s important to take steps to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, and to choose the right tanning method for your skin type.

With the right precautions, you can get a beautiful, healthy tan every time.