Tanning results in a sun-kissed complexion but only lasts for a short while. How long does the skin typically stay tanned after sun exposure? Is there a way to prolong the tan? Find here explanations about the tanning process, its effects on the skin, and its duration.
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How long does a tan last?
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Published February 16, 2022,
updated on October 4, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
4 min read
Why does the skin tan?
This natural process allows it to resist the harmful effects of the sun's UV rays. When exposed to the sun, to protect the skin, melanocytes produce melanin (a pigment responsible for the brown colour) which migrates to the surface of the epidermis and colours it: this is known as tanning. If the exposure is too long and/or the UVB rays too intense, the tan gives way to a sunburn.
UVB rays are particularly aggressive to the skin and are responsible for sunburn. UVA rays penetrate further than UVB rays and reach the dermis, the deep layer of the skin. They are, in turn, the cause of "photo-ageing".
How long does a tan last?
Generally, the skin remains tanned between two and four weeks after the last sun exposure due to the cellular differentiation. This natural process is characterised by the maturation of epithelial cells which load up with keratin to result in dead cells constituting the horny layer that eventually get exfoliated. The keratinocytes thus continually renew themselves in a cycle of approximately 28 days. Therefore, a tan cannot last more than a month.
How to prolong your tan?
Several simple actions can help maintain a sun-kissed complexion for as long as possible:
Immediately after exposure, use an after-sun care product to alleviate minor burns while prolonging the tan.
Thus, you can apply themoisturising gelwith organic aloe vera and orange blossom for the face and body. It soothes the skin and deeply hydrates.
Hydration is the crucial action to promote in order to extend one's tan and delay skin peeling.
Choose a moisturising cream according to your skin type (dry, oily, normal...) and apply it daily, morning and evening. For the face, you can use the face moisturising cream with 9 ingredients. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and organic coconut oil, it's a minimalist formula that hydrates and nourishes the epidermis. Its light and non-greasy texture is suitable for dry, normal and combination skin, even sensitive ones. For the body, opt for the body moisturising cream with 10 ingredients, which hydrates all skin types, even sensitive ones.
Itsbrightening powerrestoresradiance and luminosity to the skin, while protecting it from the harmful effects offree radicals. For all skin types, the radiance serum is a solution to brighten your complexion. Apply 3 to 4 drops morning and evening on clean, dry face. A treatment of about 4 weeks is recommended to achieve the desired result. If you wish to use a less concentrated formula, the antioxidant face cream is ideal.Apply a dab of this cream morning and evening on the previously cleansed and dried face, after your usual serum. Massage gently in circular motions to perfect penetration.
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