How to Get a Darker Tan in the Sun

Getting a dark tan is as easy as following a few simple steps.

It seems as though winter's cold has barely left the doorstep, when bikinis and Bermuda shorts are being peddled in every store front and getting a sun-kissed look is on everyone's mind. Once a base tan is in place, it is time to start working on a darker tan for just-back-from-an-island get away look. Making a tan darker is a combination of skin hydration, moisturizers, tanner and the right amount of sun.

Things You'll Need

• Loofah or exfoliating cream and bath poof
• Non-soap bar or body wash
• Moisturizing lotion

Instructions

1. Exfoliate your skin completely. This step ensures that all dead skin cells are removed, giving a more even tan. You can use a loofah but do not scrub too hard. A body wash cream with exfoliating beads used in conjunction with a bath poof is a better option because you remove the dead skin gently without harming the good skin.

2. Cover your body with suntan oil or lotion. Choose a lotion that has 8 to 10 SPF, with or without bronzer. Be sure to cover your entire area to keep from burning. The tanning oil or lotion acts as a deep moisturizer which allows your skin to tan without burning or peeling. Staying moisturized is the real secret to a dark tan.

3. Only tan for an hour or two a day. This will gradually make your tan darker. Skipping days is likely to lessen the effect of the tan and trying to get a tan all in one day is just going to get you burned. Slow and steady gets the tan. If you are not used to a hour a day of sun exposure, start out with less time, gradually building up as your body adjusts to the exposure. Getting a sunburn does not help you tan, it only damages your skin and makes you more susceptible to peeling.

4. Shower using a non-soap bar or body wash. Using soap will dry your skin out leaving it more susceptible to peeling. Using a cleanser plus moisturizer is even better for your skin. Do not use anything to exfoliate after your tanning sessions because you will be taking off the newly tanned skin.

5. Use a heavy moisturizing lotion day and night, even if your bath wash or bar contains moisturizer. Remember the difference between a tan and peeling skin all lies with how much or how little you moisturize.

Tips & Warnings

• Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is extremely important to getting a great tan, because hydration keeps your skin soft, supple and ready to accept moisturizer.

• The FDA warns that tanning can increase your risk of skin cancer.

References

• How to get a great Suntan
• American Cancer Society: Sun Safety 101

Resources

• FDA: The Risks of Tanning