How to prepare your skin for the sun for an even tan and optimal protection?

The arrival of sunny days often means more sun exposure. However, exposing your skin too quickly or without preparation can weaken the epidermis and lead to sunburn. For a beautiful tan while protecting your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays, a proactive approach is essential.

In this article, discover how to best prepare your skin for the sun with the right habits, targeted nutrition, and innovative food supplements.

Gradual and careful sun exposure

Before spending long periods in the sun, it is recommended to let your skin adjust gently. Gradual sun exposure, in short sessions and during the least intense hours (before 11 a.m. and after 4 p.m.), helps stimulate melanin production—the natural pigment responsible for tanning and protection against sun rays.

Gentle exfoliation for more receptive skin

One to two weeks before sun exposure, it is recommended to remove dead skin cells with a gentle scrub. This helps to even out the skin and optimize melanin distribution for a more uniform tan.

Hydration and appropriate care

Well-hydrated skin is more resistant to external aggressions. To achieve this:

• Moisturize your skin morning and evening with nourishing day and night creams.
• Drink at least 1.5L of water a day to maintain the elasticity of the skin.
• Use face and body care products containing soothing ingredients such as aloe vera or hyaluronic acid.

Some people believe that a few UV sessions in a salon before summer can prepare the skin for the sun. However, this practice is not only ineffective but also dangerous.

• No real protection: Artificial UV stimulates a superficial tan that does not strengthen the skin against natural UV rays.

• Risk of premature aging: UV exposure accelerates collagen breakdown, promoting wrinkles and sagging skin.
• Increased risk of skin cancer: According to dermatologists, tanning beds significantly increase the risk of melanoma.

Instead of using artificial UV, it is better to prepare your skin from the inside out, with a balanced diet and targeted food supplements.

Diet plays a key role in preparing the skin for sun exposure. Certain nutrients help stimulate melanin production and improve the skin’s resistance to external stressors.

Foods rich in antioxidants

Antioxidants help fight oxidative stress caused by UV. You can find them in:

• Colorful fruits and vegetables: carrots, tomatoes, bell peppers, sweet potatoes.
• Berries: strawberries, blueberries, raspberries.
• Nuts: almonds, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts.

Foods rich in beta-carotene

Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, which supports melanin synthesis and contributes to a beautiful tan. It is found in:

• Carrots
• Mango
• Melon
• Spinach

Essential fatty acids

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids strengthen the skin barrier and limit dehydration. They are found in:

• Fatty fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel).
• Vegetable oils (flaxseed, walnut, rapeseed oils).
• Chia seeds and flaxseeds.

Food supplements play an increasingly recognized role in preparing for sun exposure. They help optimize melanin synthesis and increase the skin's tolerance to UV rays.

Double-source melanin: plant-based and black sheep wool-derived

Biocyte, a nutricosmetics expert, offers a major innovation: plant-based melanin combined with melanin derived from black sheep wool. This double source:

• Stimulates natural tanning.
• Helps protect the skin against oxidative stress.
• Helps prolong the duration of your tan.

Other key active ingredients for stronger skin

Food supplements for sun preparation often include:

• Copper, which promotes skin pigmentation.
• Vitamin E and selenium, with antioxidant properties.
• Astaxanthin, a powerful natural antioxidant.

A course of at least one month before sun exposure is recommended for optimal results.

Neglecting sun protection

Even with good preparation, sun exposure without SPF protection is dangerous. Apply high-protection sunscreen SPF 30 or 50 before going out and reapply every two hours.

Sudden sun exposure

Sunburn weakens the skin and accelerates aging. Gradually increase your sun exposure and favor less intense hours.

Forgetting to protect certain areas

Lips, ears, and scalp are often neglected. Use an SPF lip balm and wear a hat to protect your scalp.

Not hydrating enough

After each sun exposure, apply an after-sun product rich in aloe vera or shea butter to soothe and nourish the skin.