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How to self tan for a natural sun-kissed glow?

Who doesn’t want a gorgeous, sun kissed tan and radiant skin throughout the year? Here’s how you can get that glowing complexion without the sun damage and even when there’s no sun to be seen.


The summer days are some of the best in the year. They’re the relaxing hours at the beach, heaps of sunshine, and that sun kissed tan that we crave all year round.


However, while having glowing skin may look amazing, you’re not helping out your aging process if that glow is accompanied by hours upon hours spent in the sun. When that glowing complexion fades in the winter, you might be left with blemishes, uneven skin tone, wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of sun damage on your skin.


Luckily for you, there are ways to reduce the risk of damage that comes with getting that healthy complexion naturally from the sun by using the right sun protection, as well as through the use of makeup and self tanner. You just need to figure out what works best for you.


Here’s how you can get that summer glow, without damaging your skin:

1. Use the right protection

Let’s be honest here - summer is amazing. It’s the time of year to get out and about and take in all the beautiful aspects of nature that surround us. Besides, vitamin D is essential for our wellbeing. It’s good for our bodies and minds to go outdoors during the warmer months, whether that is for a jog, to the beach, around the pool, or simply mowing the lawn. It doesn’t hurt that you get a golden glow along the way.


The problem comes in when you don’t protect yourself properly against the harmful UVA and UVB rays that the sun emits. You have to ensure that you wear some kind of SPF protection throughout the year. However, during the hot summer months when the sun is hotter, it’s even more important to lather up with a strong sun protection product.


But what type of sunblock should you be putting on your face and body? And what level of SPF is the best for your needs?


Sunscreen comes in two types: physical and chemical.


Physical sunscreens are mineral-based and usually come with active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These sit on top of your skin and reduce the risk of skin damage from exposure to the sun, bouncing the UV rays away from the skin. Physical sunscreens tend to be thicker than the chemical ones and they are more appropriate for those with sensitive skin. These sunscreens work immediately upon application, but they can come off easily when rubbed or through sweating. The thickness of physical sunscreen means that they can also leave some white streaks on the body, which means that they aren’t the best suited for wearing on a daily basis or under makeup


Chemical sunscreens are made of carbon-based compounds like oxybenzone that absorb UV rays and then release the heat away from the skin. However, they need to be applied at least 30 minutes before heading out into the sun. Chemical sunscreens are more discreet than their physical counterparts and as such, they are great to wear every day or under makeup. Just keep in mind that the ingredients could cause irritation in people that have sensitive skin types.


No matter what sunscreen you choose, make sure that you apply it every day. Even if you are not going to the beach. It’s okay to use a moisturizer with a lower SPF factor such as 15 if you are simply going on your day-to-day errands, however, if you are going to be spending an extended amount of time in the sun, you’re going to want to wear something with an SPF of 30 and above. Remember to apply your sunscreen at least once every two hours on a hot day and to reapply it after you swim.

2. Use self tanning lotion

You don’t have to expose your skin to the dangers of sun damage to get a year-round radiant skin. Try self tanning lotion for a beautiful golden glow without spending a second in the sun. Sunless tanning lotions use a formula that combines DHA and erythrulose for a sun kissed look that can last you throughout the year. Just a few minutes after application, your skin will take on a tan the shade of your choosing.


Clarins’ self tanner range is filled with the best indoor tanning lotions to give your skin a natural-looking glow.


If you are looking for a hydrating tanning lotion then grab our Self Tanning Milky Lotion. Use this best self tanner for a hydrating and smooth experience for your skin; it’s enriched with Aloe Vera and Fig extracts that give it a silky texture and help your skin stay hydrated, while it develops its natural-looking, golden glow.


Our Self Tanning Instant Gel is for those looking for a quick solution to a golden tan. It’s a lightweight non-oily gel that blends easily, dries quickly, and soothes the skin as the color develops. It’s the perfect accessory for any season.


Try out the Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster, which is the best self tanner for the face. Simply add three drops to your day and/or night moisturizer for a gradual sun kissed tan on your face that is perfectly even.

3. Use makeup

For a golden glow no matter what the season, makeup is an easy and excellent solution. Simple to use for women that are on the go, bronzers give you radiant skin without having to expose yourself to harmful UV rays. Use bronzers and earthy makeup tones to give your face the year-round tan that you have been dreaming of.


And there it is! Say goodbye to dull, pale skin and hello to a year-round sun kissed tan without the risk of sun damage!

Got more questions about Clarins products? Find all the answers you need here.

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