Get Bronzed In Time For Summer

Get Summer Ready with a Bronze, Sunkissed Glow: Simple Tips for a Perfect Tan

Summer is just around the corner, and it's time to embrace that beautiful sunkissed glow. Nothing boosts confidence quite like bronzed, radiant skin that looks like you've just returned from a tropical getaway.

Achieving that perfect bronze glow doesn't require hours baking in harmful UV rays or expensive salon treatments. With the right products and techniques, you can create a natural-looking tan that enhances your features and makes you feel summer-ready anytime.

Whether you're heading to the beach, attending a wedding, or simply want to feel more confident in your summer outfits, a bronze glow can be your secret weapon. Let's explore how you can get that perfect sunkissed look safely and effectively.

Achieving a Radiant, Sunkissed Glow

A beautiful bronze glow can enhance your summer look without harmful UV exposure. The right products and techniques will help you achieve that perfect sun-kissed complexion safely and effectively.

Best Self-Tanning Products for Summer

Finding the right self-tanner can make all the difference in your summer beauty routine. For beginners, gradual tanning lotions like Jergens Natural Glow or Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk offer foolproof application with buildable color.

If you're looking for quicker results, mousses deliver faster color development. St. Tropez Self Tan Express and Loving Tan 2 Hour Express are popular choices that develop in just a few hours.

Face-specific formulas deserve a spot in your routine too. Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops mix with your moisturizer for customizable facial color.

Top picks for different skin tones:

• Fair skin: Luna Bronze Eclipse Tanning Mousse

• Medium skin: Tan-Luxe The Body Illuminating Self-Tan Drops

• Deep skin: Tanologist Self Tan Water

For on-the-go touch-ups, try Coola Sunless Tan Dry Oil Mist or Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Water. These products provide a natural-looking tan without the dreaded orange undertone.

How to Prep Your Skin for an Even Tan

Proper skin prep is essential for a flawless application. Start by exfoliating 24 hours before tanning to remove dead skin cells. Use a gentle scrub like Herbivore Coco Rose Body Polish or Frank Body Original Coffee Scrub.

Pay special attention to rough areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. These spots tend to absorb more product and can look patchy if not properly exfoliated.

Shaving or waxing should be done at least 24 hours before tanning. This prevents the product from settling into hair follicles and creating dark spots.

Pre-tan checklist:

• ✓ Exfoliate thoroughly

• ✓ Moisturize dry areas

• ✓ Remove deodorant residue

• ✓ Wait 24 hours after shaving

Apply a light, oil-free moisturizer to dry areas just before tanning. Your hands, feet, elbows, and knees will benefit from this barrier that prevents over-absorption.

Remember to cleanse your skin thoroughly and avoid using body oils or heavy creams before application. These can create a barrier that prevents the tanning solution from developing properly.

Application Tips for Natural-Looking Bronzed Skin

Using the right tools ensures a streak-free finish. Invest in a tanning mitt to prevent stained palms and achieve an even application. Apply your self-tanner in sections, using long, sweeping motions.

Start with your legs and work upward. This approach prevents creasing when you bend to reach your lower body. Use what's left on your mitt for areas that naturally catch the sun: your face, neck, and décolletage.

For your face, mix self-tanner with your moisturizer for a more subtle effect. This creates a natural transition between your face and body.

Quick application hacks:

• Dilute product with moisturizer for hands and feet

• Use a makeup brush for awkward areas like ears and ankles

• Apply petroleum jelly to eyebrows to prevent staining

Wait at least 6-8 hours before showering after application. Wear loose, dark clothing while the tan develops to avoid transfer and streaking.

To extend your tan, moisturize daily and exfoliate lightly every few days. This prevents patchy fading and keeps your glow looking fresh throughout the summer.

Maintaining and Enhancing Your Bronze Look

Achieving that perfect bronze glow is just the beginning—now you need to make it last while keeping your skin healthy. The right aftercare, makeup techniques, and sun protection will help you maintain that sunkissed radiance throughout the summer.

Aftercare for Lasting Color

Moisturize daily to lock in your bronze color. Rich, hydrating lotions prevent your skin from drying out, which can cause your tan to fade more quickly. Look for products containing aloe vera or coconut oil for added benefits.

Exfoliate gently once a week to remove dead skin cells. This helps your tan fade evenly rather than becoming patchy. Use a soft scrub or exfoliating mitt with circular motions.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Internal hydration reflects on your skin's appearance and helps maintain that dewy, bronzed look.

Avoid hot showers or baths as excessive heat can strip your tan faster. Opt for lukewarm water and pat your skin dry instead of rubbing vigorously with a towel.

Makeup Tricks for a Warm Summer Glow

Bronzer is your best friend for enhancing your tan. Apply it where the sun naturally hits—forehead, cheekbones, nose, and chin. Use a large fluffy brush for a natural finish.

Top Bronzer Picks:

• Powder bronzers for oily skin

• Cream formulas for dry skin

• Shimmer versions for evening looks

Highlight strategic areas to create dimension. Apply highlighter to the high points of your face: cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid's bow.

Choose warm-toned makeup to complement your bronze skin. Coral, peach, and gold shades will enhance your glow rather than clash with it.

Try the "no-makeup makeup" approach. With bronzed skin, you need less coverage, so swap foundation for tinted moisturizer or spot-conceal only where needed.

Sun Safety: Staying Protected While Bronzing

Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, even if you already have a tan. Contrary to popular belief, a tan doesn't protect you from harmful UV rays.

Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors. This habit prevents sunburn and premature aging while allowing you to safely maintain your bronze glow.

Consider using gradual self-tanners between sun sessions. These products build color slowly while minimizing sun exposure.

Seek shade during peak hours (10am-2pm). You can still enjoy the outdoors without compromising your skin's health by timing your activities wisely.

Wear protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats and lightweight cover-ups when spending extended time outdoors. Your skin will thank you years later!

Final Thoughts

Achieving that effortless, bronzed glow doesn’t have to mean hours in the sun or risking your skin’s health. With the right prep, products, and aftercare, you can enjoy a radiant, sunkissed look all summer long—whether it’s from a self-tanner or a mindful tanning session. Remember, glowing skin is healthy skin, so take care of it, hydrate often, and let your inner confidence shine through every golden highlight.

Stay bronzed goddesses!

Tara xx