The Ultimate Guide to Tanning: Answers to the Questions Everyone Asks

What is a tan?

Tanning is the skin’s defense mechanism against the sun. When exposed to UV rays, skin cells begin to produce more melanin. You probably already know that melanin is the pigment that gives the skin its natural color. But did you know that its main role is to protect the epidermis from UV rays? Our skin therefore produces more melanin when we’re exposed to the sun. And it’s this “extra” melanin that gives the skin that natural tan.

Does putting on sunscreen prevent you from tanning?

No, sunscreen doesn't prevent you from tanning. In fact, the opposite is true: with sunscreen, you tan more gradually, but your tan is more even and lasts longer. Most importantly, it also helps you tan more safely by reducing sunburn and the deep skin damage caused by UV rays.

Do people with dark skin get a tan?

Yes, absolutely! Even though dark and olive skin tones are naturally rich in melanin—which provides them with better natural protection against UV rays—they still become even more pigmented in the sun. However, contrary to a very common misconception, people with darker skin are not immune to sunburn and other skin damage caused by UV rays. They must therefore protect themselves from the sun just as much as people with lighter skin.

Can you get a tan if you have redhead skin?

It’s sometimes possible, but the tan will be very light and subtle. In fact, very fair skin with freckles (phototype 1) produces little or no protective melanin (eumelanin). It reddens easily, tends to “burn” quickly, but doesn’t tan at all or only very slightly. In other words: this skin type is less able to defend itself against UV rays, and the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin damage is very high. An SPF 50+ sunscreen is absolutely essential for preserving the long-term health of “fair skin.”

How can you get a tan without getting sunburned... and without peeling?

It is possible to get a tan without getting sunburned or peeling… And honestly, it’s actually the only way to get a good tan. Follow this checklist to prevent your skin from peeling and reddening after sun exposure:

• Don't spend four hours in direct sunlight on your first day. The best approach? Take it slowly. Limit your time to no more than 20–30 minutes on the first few days, and under no circumstances should you spend several consecutive hours in direct sunlight.
• Avoid being out in the sun between noon and 4 p.m., as that is when the sun's rays are at their strongest.
• Exfoliate your face with a Gentle Scrub exfoliating beads or an enzymatic exfoliating mask 1 to 2 days before and after sun exposure. And for your body, we recommend our Radiance-Boosting Body Scrub.
• Moisturize your skin generously every day and after every time you're exposed to the sun: for example, with the 24-Hour Moisturising Body Lotion or the Hydra Intense Cream for the face.

• Use SPF 50+ sunscreen. Reapply every 2–3 hours, and after swimming or sweating.

Does a sunburn turn into a tan?

No, a sunburn is literally a burn caused by excessive UV exposure. That’s why the skin gets hot, peels, turns red, and sometimes blisters. So, at the risk of disappointing many people: a sunburn cannot turn into a tan.

However, it is possible to minimize the damage caused by a burn by following these recommendations:

• Apply aloe vera gel, thermal water, or a soothing cream such as Biafine as soon as possible.
• After a few hours (once the skin has cooled down) and in the days that follow, use a moisturizing and nourishing repair treatment such as the Intense Repair Body Balm.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Don't peel off the skin that's peeling.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing to prevent friction, which could worsen the inflammation.
• Do not expose the area to the sun again until it has completely healed.

Can you get a tan on a cloudy day?

Yes! UV rays can penetrate clouds and reach your skin. Even under a gray or cloudy sky, it’s entirely possible to get a tan. So whether the weather’s bad or the sun’s hidden: sunscreen is a must, especially if you’re outside for a long time!

How long does it take to get a tan?

Generally, a tan begins to show after 2 to 6 hours in the sun. However, the amount of time you need to spend in the sun to get a tan depends on several factors:

• Your skin type: Black, olive, and mixed-race skin tones tan more quickly than fair skin.
• The amount of sunlight.
• Exposure time.
• Where you spend time outdoors: Sand and water, in particular, reflect UV rays, which helps you tan.

In any case, you should always make sure to expose yourselfto the sun gradually and in moderation, while consistently using avery high SPF sunscreen, so you can tan without getting sunburned and avoid damaging your skin.

How can I get a tan quickly?

Of course, you can prepare your skin for tanning to help it tan more quickly and effectively. But be careful: the goal is to support the natural process, not to force a quick tan at the expense of your skin’s health. Here are a few tips to gently speed up the tanning process:

• Exfoliate your skin 1 to 2 days before your first time in the sun.
• Moisturize daily: Well-moisturized skin tans better and keeps its tan longer.
• Eat foods rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E, which stimulate melanin production. These nutrients are found in carrots, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, mangoes, kiwis, spinach, and more.
• As an added bonus, you can take a course of sunscreen supplements, ideally starting 2 to 3 weeks before you begin sun exposure.

And above all, don't skip the sunscreen: you definitely won't tan any faster if you don't protect your skin.

How long does a tan last?

A natural tan fades on average 3 to 4 weeks after the last time you were in the sun. Why? Because the skin naturally renews itself about every 28 days. 

How can you tan effectively to keep your tan as long as possible?

The secret to a beautiful, long-lasting tan is to be gentle on your skin:

• Expose yourself to the sun gradually, starting with 15- to 20-minute sessions the first few days to let your skin get used to it.
• Avoid being out in the sun during the hottest part of the day, between noon and 4 p.m.
• Avoid very hot water and harsh cleansers that dry out and irritate the skin. Opt for lukewarm water and a soap-free, sulfate-free cleanser such as our Gentle Shower Gel. And for your face, choose a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type.
• Exfoliate your skin 1 to 2 times a week with a Gentle Scrub but never on the same day you plan to be in the sun, as this could make your skin more sensitive to the sun).
• Apply a body lotion and a facial moisturizer every day. To enhance your tan and make it last longer, you can also boost hydration by adding a few drops of our Metamorphosis Skincare Oilto your skincare routine, especially if you have dry skin.
• Apply a very high SPF sunscreen every morning, such as our Invisible Cream. Reapply every 2–3 hours, and after swimming or sweating.