Embrace That Summer Glow: How to Get Tan in Winter

Ready to shake off the winter blues and get a sun kissed glow? Read on to learn how to get tan in winter (and stay tan).

The winter blues are a real concern. Between the cold and the lack of sun, it’s easy to see how your mood can slip as December and January roll around.

It doesn’t help that your skin is pale enough to match the brisk outdoors.

But just because the sun is hibernating doesn’t mean your tan should follow suit. Keep reading for a guide on how to get tan in winter and maintain a spray tan. You’ll be shaking off the winter blues in no time!

Prep Your Skin

Did you know your skin actually gets lighter in the winter?

It’s true, and it makes sense when you think about it–even if you live in an area that gets sun in the winter, we tend to spend less time outdoors due to the cold, which means we spend less time soaking in that vitamin D.

Because of this, your skin tends to be a shade or two lighter than in the summertime. If you’re a spray tan regular, you should go a shade or two lighter than you would in the summer.

You should also practice good spray tan maintenance, like shaving or waxing before your appointment to make sure the tan goes on evenly.

Eat the Rainbow (and Hydrate Too!)

Of course, a good spray tan is more than skin-deep. You should eat to keep your skin healthy so it’s better prepared to handle a spray tan.

To do this, you’ll quite literally need to “feed your face,” with foods that are good for your skin.

Focus on foods with essential skin nutrients, such as:

• Zinc
• Omega-3s
• Copper
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C

We also tend to eat carb-heavy foods in the winter, so make sure you keep up with your lean proteins.

In addition, you should also make sure to hydrate properly, as cold air and dry winds can have a disastrous effect on your skin. Try to consume at least eight glasses a day, more if you drink any alcohol.

Moisturize and Exfoliate

Finally, make sure to moisturize and exfoliate before and after your spray tan.

Go for a gentle exfoliation about 12 hours before. Pay extra attention to problem areas that tend to get dry and scaly during the winter, like your feet, ankles, elbows, and hands.

You should also boost your moisturizing routine since cold air dries out our skin (and your spray tan will always age better if you moisturize well). Make sure to avoid oil-based lotions, as these will make your spray tan slide right off.

More Tips on How to Get Tan in Winter

Now that you know how to get tan in winter, it’s important to incorporate these tips into your regular beauty routine.

And if you need to schedule your next spray tan, you’ve come to the right place.

Check out these questions to ask before your appointment. Or, if you’re ready to dive right in, click here to find one of our salon locations near you.