Keep It Fresh

First, a quick biology lesson: you get a tan when sun stimulates the production of melanin, the pigment that colours the top layer of your skin. That top layer sheds approximately every two weeks, so to maximise your tan exfoliate regularly. The exfoliation ensures that the cells at the end of their life cycle are shed and the fresh cells beneath are prepped to soak up the sun. For this we recommend to you use this face mask from Sõsar.

Dry skin can also cause an uneven tan, making it all the more important to slough away dead cells.

Keep it hydrated

Dry skin is flaky skin that sheds and takes your tan with it. Proper water intake (especially when you’re in the sun and more likely to lose water through sweating) can help extend the life of your skin cells and, along with them, your tan. If you are going to the beach, we can recommend the Bennkai collapsible water bottle which is easy to take with you and looks fab!

This bottle will safe space in your bag and money (you don’t have to buy water anymore). If you decide to get our Gay Pack then use the coupon code: COLLWATBOT and we’ll add this bottle (value of $20) to your first order for free!

Keep It Protected

It sounds counterintuitive, but hear us out: wearing sunscreen is vital not only for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, but also for achieving a long-lasting tan. A burn provides colour for a bit, but it fades faster than the colour earned from a slower tanning process because your body is anxious to rid itself of damaged cells. Bronze is a good look roasted red is not. Here you can find more information about how to choose the right sunscreen and SPF for yourself.

Keep It Cool

There’s nothing like a hot shower, but it isn’t helping your skin. That hot water can actually cause greater dehydration and dryness in your skin, leading to faster peeling and a farewell to your tan. Cool down the temp as much as you can handle, and use a moisturising shower oil while you’re scrubbing up.

Keep It Moist

Along with hydrating your skin from the inside, it’s also important to moisturise from the outside. A daily or twice daily dose of moisturiser will help keep peeling at bay, ensuring your tan stays put and your skin stays smooth. Pay special attention to the face, where tans tend to fade first. To solve this problem we recommend the Aloe 99% Smoothing Gel from Holika Holika.

…… and if all fails wear white

You can’t be whiter than a white suit, can you? It may technically be cheating, but we’re not going to turn our nose up at a tried-and-tested trick for tan-ness (perceived, anyway) when we’re feeling pale.