Many people seek a sun-kissed complexion and consequently indulge in sunbathing and tanning sessions. In the rush, it sometimes happens that clothing or accessory marks disrupt the uniformity of the tan, resulting in one area being more tanned than another. While time and patience are your best allies in this case, here are nevertheless some solutions to limit the damage before it fades naturally.
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How to correct an uneven tan?
Summary
- 1. Hydrating the skin
- 2. Gently Exfoliate
- 3. Use a self-tanning product
- 4. Conceal with tinted treatments
Published April 4, 2023,
updated on October 4, 2024,
by
Pauline, Chemical Engineer
—
5 min read
1. Hydrating the skin.
Whether the tan is even or not, the skin requires hydration and nourishment after a tanning session. Indeed, exposure to the sun weakens the horny layer of the epidermis, which acts as a primary skin barrier, and destabilises the cohesion of lipids that play the role of intercellular cement there.
Providing a lipid supply through skincare will also enhance cell regeneration. Once hydrated and nourished, the skin is more likely to develop an even tan. Indeed, some unsightly tans are the result of a sunburn. Alleviating this type of burn is another reason to prioritise good hydration for skin care. Therefore, it is recommended to use moisturising treatments daily on the face and body.
2. Gently Exfoliate.
Hydration has soothed the skin, which can finally be exfoliated in the area showing uneven tanning. Exfoliation helps to remove dead cells from the skin's surface and to stimulate cellular renewal, which will subsequently reduce the appearance of marks. In the weeks following your tan, you can focus on the uneven area. However, make sure to not exceed one to two exfoliations per week, as this could irritate your skin.
Our product recommendations:
Composed of an exfoliating complex based on four AHAs and a PHA, our peeling mask eliminates dead skin cells to unclog pores and refine skin texture. It leaves the complexion unified and the skin texture smoothed. Over time, it helps to reduce the presence of blackheads.
Formulated withsweet almond oil (INCI name: Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil) known for its nourishing properties, and super lavandin essential oil (INCI name: Lavandula Hybrida Herb Oil), recognised for its regenerative and healing virtues, our nourishing body scrub rids the skin of dead cells thanks to the micro-grains of apricot kernels. Exfoliated and nourished, the skin is soft, supple and comfortable.
3. Use a self-tanning product.
While hydration and exfoliation can help to reduce the appearance of marks, they cannot erase them. To truly correct uneven tanning, it is recommended to use a self-tanner. This treatment is applied to the skin and allows for a tanned complexion without sun exposure. It generally contains dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a molecule capable of reacting with the amino acids of the stratum corneum of the epidermis through Maillard reaction. This results in the formation of melanoidins, brown pigments.
Applied to strategic areas, self-tanning products can help to even out the complexion. However, it is essential to apply these products lightly to avoid the opposite effect and the appearance of darker marks. In fact, uneven tanning can sometimes be due to inconsistent application of a self-tanner. At Typology, we have formulated two products that provide a natural and gradual tan: a self-tanning serum for the face and a self-tanning gel for the body.
4. Conceal with tinted treatments.
At times, while the skin is regenerating and the complexion is becoming even again, it is preferable to simply cover the uneven tan with tinted skincare products. Most are intended for the face but can also be applied to the body. They help to conceal marks or spots, whether they are permanent or temporary, such as an uneven tan.
However, while this type of treatment is quite practical and effective on the face, it is generally less so on the hands or legs. These areas are indeed quite prone to friction, which risks quickly fading the colour.
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