Do You Tan Poorly? Here's How to Prepare Your Skin Before Summer
Between sun, heat, swimming, and pollution, your skin faces much more than just a change of season. To avoid sunburn, pigmentation spots, and dull complexion, rigorous preparation is essential starting in spring. Here are the keys to anticipating the effects of the sun and achieving radiant, resilient, and long-lasting skin protection.
Understanding the effects of the sun on the skin
The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays are divided into two main categories:
- UVA These rays penetrate deep into the skin, reaching the dermis. They are responsible for premature skin aging, also known as photoaging.
- UVB They mainly affect the epidermis and are the primary cause of sunburn.
Excessive exposure to UV rays can cause cell damage, loss of elasticity, and the appearance of pigment spots.
1: Exfoliate to Reveal New Skin
The accumulation of dead cells on the skin's surface slows down the evenness of tanning and limits the penetration of skincare products. Exfoliation, performed once or twice a week, promotes cell renewal, refines skin texture, and stimulates microcirculation.
- On the face : choose a gentle, enzymatic, or fine-grained scrub that is suitable for your skin type.
- On the body : opt for richer, grainier textures, applied to damp skin using circular motions.
Avoid exfoliating the day before sun exposure, as this may irritate the skin.
2: Moisturize and Nourish to Strengthen the Skin Barrier
Heat and UV rays promote dehydration and weaken the skin's protective hydrolipidic film.
- Apply a moisturizing cream or serum containing humectants daily (hyaluronic acid, glycerin).
- Seal in moisture with a lipid phase (vegetable butter, oils rich in essential fatty acids).
- On the body, focus on exposed areas: legs, arms, shoulders.
- Drink enough water (1.5 to 2 liters) for optimal hydration.
Well-hydrated skin will be more resistant to the sun and retain its tan longer.
3: Incorporate Antioxidants into Your Routine
Antioxidants neutralize free radicals produced by UV rays and slow down the signs of aging.
- Vitamin C : evens out skin tone, stimulates collagen production, prevents pigmentation spots.
- Vitamin E : protects cell membranes.
- Polyphenols and flavonoids (green tea, resveratrol): reduce oxidative inflammation.
For sensitive or reactive skin: avoid using pure vitamin C; opt for a derivative such as’ascorbyl glucoside.
4: Adjust Your Diet to Boost Melanin
Healthy skin also starts with what you eat. Certain nutrients strengthen the skin's defense mechanisms and promote gradual tanning.
- Beta-carotene : found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach. A precursor to vitamin A, it optimizes pigmentation.
- Lycopene : found in tomatoes, it protects against sunburn.
- Vitamin E : found in nuts and seeds, it protects skin cells from oxidative damage.
- Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids : fatty fish, vegetable oils, seeds, they maintain the skin's elasticity and suppleness.
Tip: Start enriching your diet 4 to 6 weeks before prolonged exposure.
5. Use dietary supplements with caution
Dietary supplements containing antioxidants, such as beta-carotene or vitamin E, can support skin health. However, it is important to use them in moderation and consult a healthcare professional before starting a course of treatment to avoid any risk of overdose or drug interactions.
6. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun
It is advisable to expose yourself to the sun gradually, avoiding the hottest hours of the day (between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m.). Using sunscreen that is suitable for your skin type is essential to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage.
7. Avoid artificial UV sessions
Contrary to popular belief, tanning bed sessions do not effectively prepare the skin for sun exposure. They can even increase the risk of premature aging and skin cancer. It is preferable to opt for natural, moderate sun exposure, accompanied by the necessary precautions.
