Tanning is an essential part of summer, but you need to take the right precautions to avoid damaging your skin. How do you tan naturally? Here's the lowdown. 

When the weather's nice, the urge to tan begins to make itself felt, and that's normal. The skin tans in response to exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. When the skin is exposed to UV, skin cells (melanocytes) produce a pigment called melanin.

Melanin is responsible for the color of skin, hair and eyes. It acts as a sort of protective shield against UV rays, absorbing some of their energy. When melanocytes detect UV exposure, they produce more melanin and distribute it throughout the upper layers of the skin to absorb UV rays and help prevent the damage they can cause. This explains why darker-skinned people generally have a higher natural ability to protect themselves from the harmful effects of the sun, as their skin contains more melanin.

It's important to understand that the process of tanning the skin is actually a response to aggression, as UV rays can damage the DNA of skin cells and increase the risk of skin cancer... That's why it's essential to take every possible protective measure when you're out in the sun, even when you want to tan. 

Tips for a quick, risk-free tan 

We all know that tanning is a natural process that requires exposure to the sun. But as you'll understand, it's important to take precautions to avoid burns and damage caused by UV and UVB rays, both before and during your vacation. 

Choosing the right hours 

Avoid exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day, generally between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are most intense. Instead, opt for earlier exposure in the morning or late afternoon.

Take it slowly 

Start with short periods of sun exposure, gradually increasing the duration over the days. This allows your skin to adapt gradually and develop a longer-lasting tan. You can also opt for a course of supplements to prepare your skin for the sun, some of which may be recommended by your dermatologist. 

Sufficiently moisturize the skin 

 Well-moisturized skin tends to tan more easily. Use a moisturizing cream adapted to your body skin type, or a vegetable oil such as coconut, sweet almond or jojoba oil, to maintain optimal hydration. For the face, continue your routine by favoring light textures for your skincare products, such as a face serum and an eye contour serum. And don't neglect your daily water intake: the best moisturizing comes from within! 

Don't skip exfoliation 

Before, during and after exposure to the sun, it's advisable to gently exfoliate your skin with a scrub (see how to make a homemade scrub) to remove dead cells. Smoother, fresher skin promotes an even tan. 

Use sun protection

Summer, spring, autumn or winter, always use a sunscreen with an appropriate sun protection factor (SPF) to protect your skin from harmful UV rays! In summer, double the dose with an SPF 50 sunscreen. Always choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and prevents sunburn.

Apply after-sun care

After each exposure to the sun, apply soothing and moisturizing suncare products to help calm the skin and prolong the tan. Aloe vera-based products can be particularly beneficial, but there are many other products on the market for this purpose. 

Dress accordingly 

 Wear light but covering clothing, such as long-sleeved linen shirts, and wide-brimmed hats to protect your skin from the sun when exposure is prolonged.

Adopt a balanced diet

 A balanced diet of antioxidant-containing fruits and vegetables can help protect the skin from free radical damage. Opt for antioxidant-rich foods such as carrots, tomatoes, spinach and citrus fruits at will to ensure a quick tan without disastrous consequences. 

Excessive, unprotected exposure to the sun can not only increase the risk of skin cancer, but also cause premature aging of the skin. If you have specific questions about your skin or sun exposure, it's best to consult a dermatologist.