Everyone loves a sun-kissed glow, but achieving a perfect, long-lasting tan can be a challenge. Whether you’re hitting the beach or lounging by the pool, it’s important to know the secrets to getting that enviable bronze color.

Here are some tips to help you achieve a flawless and enduring tan.

1. Prepare your skin beforehand

Before exposing your skin to the sun, it’s crucial to prepare it for tanning. Exfoliate your skin using a gentle scrub to remove dead cells and ensure an even tan.

Moisturize your skin regularly in the days leading up to your tanning session to keep it hydrated and supple.

2. Choose the right tanning oil or lotion

Selecting the right tanning oil or lotion is key to achieving a perfect and long-lasting tan. Look for products that contain natural oils like coconut or argan oil, as they help to moisturize and nourish your skin while promoting a deeper tan.

Opt for lotions or oils with an appropriate SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

3. Time your tanning sessions

The timing of your tanning sessions can greatly impact the effectiveness and longevity of your tan. It’s best to tan during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun’s rays are less intense.

Avoid tanning during peak hours when the sun is strongest, as prolonged sun exposure can lead to sunburn and premature aging of the skin.

4. Rotate your position regularly

When you’re tanning, remember to rotate your body regularly to ensure an even tan. By changing your position every 15-20 minutes, you prevent certain areas from getting more exposure than others.

This will help you achieve a natural and uniform tan.

5. Don’t forget to protect your eyes and lips

Your eyes and lips are delicate areas that often get overlooked when it comes to sun protection.

Use sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays, and don’t forget to apply lip balm with SPF to keep your lips moisturized and guarded against sun damage.

6. Stay hydrated

Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining a healthy tan. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your tanning session to keep your skin hydrated and prevent it from drying out.

Hydrated skin not only tans better but also helps your tan last longer.

7. Moisturize after tanning

After tanning, it’s important to moisturize your skin to lock in the color and prevent it from fading quickly. Choose a moisturizer that is specially formulated for tanned skin, as it will help maintain hydration and prolong your tan.

8. Avoid hot showers and harsh soaps

To ensure your tan lasts longer, avoid taking hot showers and using harsh soaps. Hot water and harsh cleansers can strip away the skin’s natural oils and cause your tan to fade more quickly.

Stick to lukewarm showers and gentle, moisturizing cleansers to preserve your bronzed glow.

9. Use gradual tanning products

If you prefer a more gradual tan or want to extend the life of your existing tan, consider using gradual tanning products. These products provide a subtle, buildable color that helps maintain your tan in between sunbathing sessions.

Additionally, they often contain moisturizing ingredients that nourish and hydrate your skin.

10. Protect your tan with sunscreen

To make your tan last as long as possible, it’s vital to protect it with sunscreen. Apply sunscreen with a high SPF before heading out into the sun to shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays.

Remember to reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after swimming or excessive sweating.