Why should we tan gradually?

Tanning is nothing more than a natural process that allows the skin to resist the harmful effects of the sun's UV rays. Biologically, melanocytes produce melanin(the pigment responsible for the brown colour) which migrates to the surface of the epidermis and colours it. If exposure is too long and/or the UVB rays too intense, tanning gives way to a sunburn. UVA rays, on the other hand, penetrate further than UVB rays and reach the dermis, the deep layer of the skin. They are responsible for "photo-ageing", meaning they accelerate the skin ageing process.

The skin has a memory. Thus, by gradually exposing it to the sun, it has time to adapt to UV rays and initiate melanogenesis, that is, the complex process by which pigmentary melanin is produced in the melanosomes by the melanocytes. Moreover, the sun's UV rays can irritate the skin, hence the importance of allowing it time to soothe and rehydrate between each exposure.

For a lasting and even tan, gradually expose yourself to UV rays. Just a few minutes of tanning are enough to start the session. Extend the exposure duration over the course of several days.

Caution! Avoid exposure between 11am and 3pm. During these hours, UV rays reach their maximum intensity, the radiation is very strong and they are particularly harmful.