How to prepare your skin for a perfect tan Three simple and fundamental steps for sun-kissed skin

Even though I personally belong to the moon tan team, I have to admit that summer is the perfect time to enjoy looking a bit more golden and sun-kissed. The important thing is to get there the right way, without stressing the skin, and always protecting it. So here are a few simple but essential steps to prepare your skin for the sun and achieve a beautiful, even, and healthy tan, without ever overdoing it.

How to tan safely and evenly

Step one: exfoliation

First things first: get rid of everything that makes your skin look dull and uneven. Dead skin cells building up on the surface can make your complexion look flat and prone to peeling. A perfect tan starts with clean, smooth skin ready to soak in the sun. This is where scrubs come in: they’re a must in your summer skincare routine. Use them once or twice a week to achieve soft, glowing skin that’s perfectly prepped for tanning. Long live exfoliation!

Step two: hydration

“Stay hydrated” isn’t just a meme-worthy catchphrase, it’s also a real beauty secret, especially when it comes to tanning. Well-hydrated skin is happy skin: it looks more radiant, plump, and tans better, faster, and more evenly. In addition to drinking plenty of water and eating fruit (packed with antioxidants and vitamins—and, let’s be honest, delicious), it’s crucial to keep skin hydrated from the outside too. Heat, sun, wind, and salt water tend to dry out the skin, so to replenish lost moisture, go for lightweight yet effective creams or gels. Look for formulas with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, urea, or squalane, ingredients that help lock in moisture and protect the skin from dehydration. A pro tip? Apply your moisturizer right after your shower, while your skin is still slightly damp. This helps seal in the water and keeps your skin hydrated longer.

Step three: sun protection

We probably don’t need to tell you this, but it’s always worth repeating: protecting your skin from UV and UVA rays is absolutely essential. Sunscreen is your best ally for a healthy, long-lasting tan. It helps prevent sunburn, premature aging, dark spots, and deep skin damage. For your face, always use SPF 50; for your body, start with SPF 50 in the early days, and gradually lower it, never going below SPF 15. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours, and after every swim in the sea.