How to prolong your holiday tan
It’s no secret that everyone looks healthier and more rested when they come back from holiday. But, making that sun-kissed glow last longer than a week when you’re back in the UK is no mean feat. We caught up with two of the industry’s leading experts to get some tips on how to prolong your tan...
Don’t forget to moisturise
For most of us, head-to-toe moisturising is one of those beauty steps that goes straight out of the window after your holiday. However, it is essential to retaining that glow.
“Hydration is paramount,” says the tanning expert James Read. “Look for a formula that’s rich in vitamins and ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. These play a big role in tan extending products due to their hydrating abilities.” Vichy Ideal Body Serum Milk, £16, is packed full of nourishing ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, and the lightweight texture melts into your skin super-quickly. If even that seems like too much effort, try Vaseline Spray and Go Body Moisturiser, £2.89, you don’t even need to bend down to moisturise your legs.
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And exfoliate....
Using a body scrub on your tan might seem counterintuitive, but there is a reason why the experts encourage it. “Admittedly your tan might fade a little bit faster as exfoliating will encourage skin to renew itself, with the average skin cell turnover being once a month for most adults,” says Jules Heponstall, St Tropez's tanning and skin finishing expert. "However, it will encourage an even fade and the last thing you want is your tan to start flaking and fading in patches."
When it comes to finding the right exfoliator, Read says, “Don’t use anything too gritty, go for something light that will get rid of the unsightly dead skin.” Balance Me’s Super Toning Body Polish, £18, leaves skin feeling smooth and soft thanks to the blend of essential oils.
Use a product to extend your tan
The all-in-one
Swap your standard after-sun for Clarins After Sun Moisturiser Self-Tanning, £21. It is two parts after-sun and one part self-tan, so you don’t have to worry about looking streaky or orange. Instead the formula rehydrates your skin and boosts your existing tan. For the best results, continue to use this for two weeks following your holiday.
The face rehydrator
Read’s new H20 Tan Mist, £20, is great for refreshing your face throughout the day and boosting your tan. Infused with rose water, the mist boosts your skin’s moisture levels and gradually builds on your tan.
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The supercharged serum
Guerlain Terracotta Sun Serum Tan Booster, £43.50 , is one of those products that just work. Add three drops into your moisturiser every evening and it does the rest of the work for you. While it’s best to start using it when you’re away, you’ll still see results if you only use it on your return.
The gradual tanner
If all else fails, fake it. Bondi Sands Gradual Tanning Milk, £11.99, is fool-proof and can be used like a body moisturiser every other day. It has none of the tell-tale self-tan scent and it doesn’t streak. Instead it gives you that natural-looking just-stepped-off-of-the-place glow.
The instant hit
If your tan is fading fast and you want to replenish it with speed, look to St Tropez Instant Tan Face and Body Lotion Light to Medium, £10. The formula lasts for up to 24 hours and if it goes wrong, you can wash it off with soap and water.
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