Summer Tanning Special

By Jane Cunningham

We all know the dangers of tanning by now; done to excess too much tanning is very damaging to skin. However, here at Beauty Expert we don’t want to give you the lecture, but instead give constructive advice and ideas on how to bronze your body in the safest way.

 

First, a few practical tips from Cancer Research UK about staying safe in the sun while on holiday.

Self tan is the perfect way to avoid the ‘whitest person on the beach’ syndrome that we all loathe. A good self tan is virtually indistinguishable from the real thing, and because DHA (the chemical that causes skin to turn brown) isn’t absorbed into the body, it’s also a very safe bet.

 

We love the Fake Bake 3-Piece Mousse Tanning Kit, £46, containing re-usable gloves, Self Tan Mousse, Passion Fruit Body Polish and moisturising Skin Smoothie. Like any self tan, the rules are simple – exfoliate, apply tan, then moisturise. If you haven’t used a self tan before, our advice to you is apply less, not more. You can always have another go, but getting rid of mistakes is virtually impossible!

 

If you are dark skinned or love a deep bronze, then Rodial Brazillian Tan, £39, is the one for you. English roses or those with very fair skin should opt for The Organic Pharmacy Self Tan, £29.95, that gives a very un-scary light golden touch.

Self tan isn’t for everyone, and if you worry that you won’t get it quite right, then Tan Accelerators may well be the perfect option. Containing ingredients that stimulate your natural melanin production, it means that once you hit the beach your tan will begin to develop in double quick time.

 

Gatineau Melatogenine Anti-Aging Tan Accelerator, £22, should be used two weeks prior to going away, and continued use helps to keep your tan going for longer. Don’t believe it? Check out the amazing customer reviews! As an extra bonus, the lotion leaves skin silky soft, supple and nourished. Korres Sweet Orange Face & Body Milk, SPF15, £13, uses a slightly different approach for the same effect. Using sweet orange extracts to stimulate skin tanning, the milk also contains aloe vera to calm, and shea butter for its anti-inflammatory properties. This is perfect for those with sensitive skin.

Easily the most important aspect of tanning is sun protection. Nobody loves the lobster look, and it is deeply harmful to your skin to allow yourself to burn.

 

One of the newest brands to Beauty Expert is Kinerase, which has a strong fan base in America, and a quickly growing one here. Kinerase Intensive Cream SPF30, £39.99, is one of the new breed of skincare – anti-aging sun care. This doesn’t just provide protection from the sun; it’s packed with moisturising properties that help to reduce lines and wrinkles, designed to counter-act the drying and damaging caused by sun.

 

Sunscreen just doesn’t suit some skins – its natural oiliness and moisturising properties can bring on exactly what you don’t want on holiday – break outs. Dermalogica Oil Free Matt Sunblock, SPF20, £29.80, is exactly as it states – oil free, meaning those prone to pimples, spots and greasy patches can rest easy that it’s only the sun that’s shining!

 

 

Nobody here at Beauty Expert heads for the sun without a jar of Ole Henriksen All Purpose Aloe Vera Gel, £35. Weightless, non-sticky and thoroughly soothing, skin that’s been exposed to the sun is quickly calmed and more comfortable. The gel is also wonderful on rashes or insect bites for immediate relief. Korres Yoghurt Cooling After Sun Gel, £15, relieves that horrible stinging sensation that comes from burning, as well as calming the skin by increasing the hydration levels. Packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients, it’s a wonderful emergency standby.

 

As far as your complexion is concerned, any amount of sunbathing is going to deepen any lines, as well as leeching the moisture from your skin. Using a high potency serum will help in the battle to repair and rehydrate while on holiday. Dr Lewinns Ultra R4 Rejuvenation Serum, £45, restores skin exposed to UV levels by repairing sun damage, boosts firmness and elasticity and gives an intensive moisture surge.

So whether you are finding fun in Fuertaventura, romance in France, or simply seeking solitude in the Seychelles, we hope you have a wonderful, relaxing and safe tanning time!