How long does a tan last?

When your skin is exposed to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, it triggers the production of melanin, a pigment that gives your skin its color. This melanin production is the body's natural defense mechanism against sunburn, acting as a shield to absorb harmful UV radiation. The more sun exposure you have, the more melanin your skin produces, resulting in a darker tan.

To tan safely, you need to apply sun cream. But can you tan with sunscreen on your skin? Yes, you can tan with sunscreen on, but it will reduce the intensity of the tan by blocking some UV rays, helping to protect your skin from damage.

Several factors can influence the duration of your tan. Skin type plays a significant role, as individuals with darker skin tones have more melanin, leading to longer-lasting tans, while those with fairer skin tend to tan less easily and see their tans fade more quickly. The type of sun exposure also matters; gradual and moderate exposure typically results in a tan that lasts longer compared to intense, short bursts of sun. Additionally, the method by which you tan makes a difference; natural tans developed slowly through sun exposure generally last longer than those obtained from tanning beds or spray tans.

A natural tan typically lasts around 7 to 10 days, though this can vary depending on your skin type and colour. However, additional sun exposure during this period may extend the life of your tan, meaning its duration can vary significantly from person to person. However, other factors can accelerate tan fading, including:

• Exfoliation: regular exfoliation, while beneficial for overall skin health, can remove tanned skin cells more quickly, shortening the lifespan of your tan.

• Sun protection neglect: once you've achieved your desired tan, it's crucial to continue wearing sunscreen to protect your skin from further UV damage, which can accelerate fading.

• Hydration: dehydrated skin is more prone to faster cell turnover, leading to quicker tan fading.

While we can't stop the natural tan-fading process, there are several ways to prolong your golden glow:

• Gradual tanning: start with short periods of sun exposure and gradually increase the time to allow your skin to build a tan gradually, resulting in a longer-lasting color.

• Hydration is key: keep your skin hydrated from the inside out by drinking plenty of water and using a moisturizer daily. This helps slow down cell turnover and keeps your tan looking fresh.

• Cool it down: After sun exposure, take cool showers or baths instead of hot baths, as hot water can dehydrate the skin.

• Nourish your skin: Use after-sun lotions or creams rich in antioxidants and soothing ingredients to repair sun damage and keep your skin hydrated.

• Exfoliate wisely: while exfoliation can help maintain an even tan, avoid harsh scrubs that can strip away tanned skin cells too quickly.

Caudalie's Vinosun range offers a selection of sun protection and after-sun care products designed to enhance and prolong your tan while safeguarding your skin's health.

• Broad-spectrum protection: Vinosun sunscreens provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, preventing sunburn and premature aging.

• After-sun: after-sun with aloe vera milk and lotions, enriched with soothing and hydrating ingredients, help calm and repair the skin after sun exposure, prolonging your tan.

Yes, tans naturally fade as a result of your skin's exfoliation process. Each day, your body sheds and regenerates millions of skin cells. As tanned skin cells are replaced by new, untanned ones, your skin gradually returns to its normal color. While you might wish your tan would last longer, this constant renewal of skin cells is essential for protecting your skin.