How do you maintain your tan after summer?

Tanned skin feels like a reminder of balmy days and long evenings. But what if you want to keep that summer glow even after your holiday? Our Skins Experts share how to prolong your tan without the sun, why using self-tanner is a smart move and which products make all the difference in the process.

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How does your tan fade - and what can you do?

Aftersun is a care product you apply after sun exposure to soothe and moisturise your skin. Unlike a regular body lotion, aftersuns contain a higher percentage of water and caring ingredients such as aloe vera or calendula, which help soothe redness and reduce tightness. Our Skins Experts see aftersun as an essential product within your sun care regime, especially when your skin feels heated or dehydrated.

Exfoliate with attention

Start with a gentle exfoliation before your holiday. This will remove dead skin cells and prevent uneven discolouration. Regular scrubbing after sunbathing will also help keep your complexion fresh and even.

Keep protecting

Sun protection remains essential, even if you already have colour. Apply generously and repeat regularly to protect your skin and prevent premature fading.

Moisturise intensively

Well-hydrated skin stays glowing longer. Use a rich body lotion or aftersun daily to keep skin supple and prolong your complexion.

Nourish from within

A colourful diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and produce rich in beta-carotene - such as carrot, mango and spinach - can boost your natural complexion.

Brown without the sun

Eventually, you can't escape the fact that your colour will slowly fade. Then give your skin a subtle boost with a self-tanner to prolong your tan. That way, you will enjoy a summer glow for longer, without the sun.

Products to maintain your tan

If you want to maintain your tan, it helps to choose products that do more than just moisturise. TAN-LUXE The Butter Gradual is a creamy body cream that subtly builds up colour while providing care. For the face, our Skins Experts recommend The Grey Skincare Self Tanning Serum: an advanced formula that you mix with your moisturiser for a gradual glow.

The TAN-LUXE The Face Light/Medium Mini is also ideal for a natural sunless tan, even on the go. And want extra-fast results? Then we recommend the COOLA Suncare Sunless Tan Dry Oil Mist: this dry oil gives your skin a sun-kissed finish in one sweep, without UV rays.

A sunless tan - also for your face

The sun leaves its mark on the skin, and while a summer glow is popular, the face in particular requires a gentler approach. Self-tanners for the face can help here, provided they are tailored to sensitive facial skin. Therefore, always opt for a dedicated formula - softer, non-comedogenic and caring. Formulas such as The Grey Skincare Self Tanning Serum combine gradual colour development with ingredients that moisturise and soothe. This keeps your complexion natural without unbalancing the skin.

Using self-tanner - how to get the best results

A radiant complexion starts with the right preparation. Exfoliate your skin beforehand to remove dead skin cells and create an even result. Then moisturise dry areas - such as elbows, knees and ankles - so that the self-tanner does not build up there. Apply the product evenly, preferably with a tanning mitt, working from the bottom up. Afterwards, wash your hands immediately to avoid colour differences. Want to know more about applying self-tanner carefully? Our Skins Experts share their full step-by-step guide in the ultimate self-tanner guide.