There's nothing more beautiful than tanned skin... But we know it's fleeting! How can you keep that summer tan for as long as possible? We'll tell you everything.

Tanning is not eternal, you have to accept that. But, nothing prevents you from making it last as long as possible and with the right method it is possible. But why does the skin tan? Before admiring and enjoying your tanned complexion, it is a concept that is good to understand.

When the skin is exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, melanocytes produce more melanin to protect skin cells from UV damage. Melanin acts as a natural sunscreen by absorbing UV rays and dispersing them as heat. Melanin is then distributed to the upper layers of the skin, where it absorbs the UV rays and helps prevent potential damage from those rays. This gives the skin a darker shade, which is what we call a tan!

Why does tan fade after a while?

The tan eventually fades due to the natural turnover of skin cells. The skin is constantly renewing its cells, and the cells in the top layer of the skin, where melanin is present, are gradually shed as new cells form underneath...

More specifically, it is melanin that is responsible for the brown color of the tan, it is produced by the melanocytes located in the basal layer of the epidermis. When the tan begins to fade, it means that the cells containing melanin begin to be eliminated by the natural exfoliation process of the skin. Dead skin cells are eliminated from the surface of the skin and replaced by new cells from the lower layers.

The skin renewal process can be influenced by different factors such as skin hydration, sun exposure, skin care products or simply the individual cell renewal cycle. In general, the tan fades gradually over time, as the tanned cells are replaced by new untanned cells. Of course, in winter the tan disappears completely and becomes non-existent because the lack of sun does not allow the production of melanin... Goodbye golden complexion!

The secrets to prolonging your tan

1. Moisturize your skin: Well-hydrated skin tends to keep its tan longer. Use after-sun moisturizers, vegetable butters such as shea butter to soothe and nourish your skin, and a lip balm to preserve this fragile area. Also opt for internal hydration by drinking enough water per day and eating fruits and vegetables high in water to maintain healthy and radiant skin.

2. Gently exfoliate: Contrary to popular belief, regular exfoliation can help prolong your tan by removing dead skin cells. Use a gentle scrub or loofah once or twice a week to gently remove tanned skin cells that tend to naturally shed. The gentle scrub will reveal fresh skin and prolong the appearance of your tan.

3. Use tan extenders: Some products on the market are specifically designed to prolong the duration and ensure an even tan. They often contain moisturizing, soothing ingredients and agents that stimulate melanin production. Use these products according to the instructions for best results.

4. Avoid hot baths and long showers: Hot water can dry out your skin and make your tan fade faster. Opt for quick, warm showers instead of long baths to help retain skin moisture and prolong your tan. When it comes to choosing a cleanser, choose a hypoallergenic shower oil to help preserve your skin’s barrier, nourish it, moisturize it, and prolong your tan.

5. Protect your skin from the sun: Excessive sun exposure can speed up the peeling process of your skin and shorten the duration of your tan. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen* with a high SPF to protect your skin from UV rays. Also avoid sun exposure during the hottest hours of the day.
   
   Which sunscreen should you choose to protect your skin?*

6. Eat a diet rich in beta-carotene: Certain foods rich in beta-carotene, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and mangoes, can promote a more golden complexion and prolong the life of your tan. Incorporate them into your diet to support your skin from the inside out.

7. Repeat sun exposure with caution: If you want to prolong your tan by re-exposing yourself to the sun, do so gradually and cautiously. Apply adequate sun protection and avoid sunburn, as it can damage your skin and accelerate the peeling of your tan.

How to keep a tanned complexion with makeup?

To prolong the effects of the golden tan, there is also the trick of makeup. At the end of summer, when the skin is still slightly tanned, you can count on cosmetic products to enhance its tanned side.

Choose the right foundation shade: Choose a foundation that matches your tan. Choose a lightweight, natural formula to avoid looking too heavy or artificial.

Use bronzers: Bronzers, such as bronzer or bronzing powder, can help intensify and prolong the appearance of your sun-kissed complexion. Apply them lightly to areas of your face where the sun naturally hits, such as your cheekbones, forehead, and chin.

Highlight key areas: Use a highlighter to add dimension and radiance to your sun-kissed complexion. Apply it to the cheekbones, brow bone, bridge of the nose and Cupid's bow to highlight these areas and create a luminous effect.

Opt for warm colors: Use eyeshadows, blushes, and lipsticks in warm tones, such as browns, coppers, peaches, and corals. These shades will complement your tanned complexion and create an overall harmony.

Keep your makeup light: Avoid applying too much makeup, as it can make your skin look heavy and hide your tan. Opt for light, fresh makeup that lets your tanned skin shine through.

Don’t forget skincare: Healthy, well-maintained skin is the key to maintaining a glowing tan. Be sure to cleanse, moisturize, and protect your skin daily to maintain its health and luminosity.

Contour lightly: Use a bronzer that’s slightly darker than your tan to define the contours of your face. Apply it under your cheekbones, along your jawline, and down the sides of your forehead to add subtle dimension to your face.