Hair removal and tanning: how to peacefully coexist with razors and UV rays All the essential steps to have smooth and tanned skin without surprises

Every summer, the same story repeats: wax or no wax? Shave before or after the beach? If I shave, will my tan disappear? And in doubt, everything gets done last minute, with irritated skin and sunspots lurking around the corner. The truth is, hair removal and sun can get along, you just need a bit of organization. With the right steps, you can have smooth, golden, happy skin without risking irritation or last-minute razor dramas.

Hair removal doesn’t take away your tan

Let’s bust a myth once and for all: hair removal doesn’t strip away your tan. Or at least, not the real one. A tan isn’t only in the outermost layer of skin, it also lives deeper down, where melanin (the pigment responsible for that golden glow) keeps doing its thing. So even if you remove dead skin cells with waxing or shaving, you’re not wiping away weeks of sunshine. In fact, well-exfoliated and smooth skin reflects light better, making your tan look brighter and healthier.

Step one: exfoliate

If you want effective hair removal and even skin, exfoliation is your best friend. It removes dead skin cells and helps prevent ingrown hairs. Just don’t exfoliate right before sun exposure: wait at least 48 hours before sunbathing. That way, your skin will be soft, smooth, and ready for both razor and rays.

Step two: shave in the evening

Never shave the same morning you’re heading to the beach, unless you want to rock a fabulous polka-dot look, sure, it’s trendy, but probably better left on your clothes. Freshly shaved skin is super sensitive, and under the sun, you risk ugly spots that won’t fade easily. The trick is to shave at night. Overnight, your skin has time to regenerate, safe from sun, salt, and sand, so you can face the morning sun calmly and without surprises.

Step three: keep your skin hydrated

Last but crucial: hydrate, and do it well. After hair removal, choose light but nourishing textures without strong fragrances or alcohol that can irritate. Aloe vera, dry oils, or creams with soothing ingredients are your best allies for soft, happy skin. Hydrating daily, not just when your skin feels tight, also helps your tan last longer. Make it a habit to apply moisturizer every morning and before bed; your skin will thank you.

Final step: apply sunscreen

You’ve followed this amazing guide to the letter: you shaved last night, hydrated well, and now all that’s left is heading to the beach and, if you remember, applying sunscreen or, better yet, an oil with a few spritzes of "refreshing mist". Stop right there. After hair removal, high sun protection isn’t optional, it’s mandatory, even if you’re already beautifully tanned and golden. Your skin is still very sensitive and needs careful protection. Even better if you choose a mineral sunscreen, which acts immediately and shields you from redness.