Prepare your skin for the sun

While it's nice to enjoy the benefits of the sun, we shouldn't forget its harmful effects on the skin. Whether it's sunburn, premature skin aging, or pigmentation spots, UV rays can leave lasting marks on the skin if you don't take certain precautions. Fortunately, it's entirely possible to combine sunbathing with beautiful skin. Discover our expert advice on how to prepare your skin for exposure, protect it effectively, and prolong the radiance of your tan with complete peace of mind.

Why prepare your skin before exposing it to the sun?

Well-prepared skin is more resilient. Before any prolonged exposure, especially during vacations, it's important to strengthen your skin barrier. Proper preparation not only helps limit sunburn, but also allows you to enjoy a more beautiful, longer-lasting tan, and, most importantly, slow the effects of photoaging.

Food & supplements: nourish your skin from the inside out

Preparing your skin starts with your plate. Before sun exposure, focus on a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids to strengthen your skin's natural defenses.

What nutrients should you consume to prepare your skin for the sun?

To strengthen your skin from the inside out against UV rays, certain nutrients play a major role. They work synergistically to boost melanin production, strengthen the skin barrier, limit inflammation, and neutralize free radicals responsible for premature aging. Here are the essential nutritional allies for radiant, well-protected skin:

Beta-carotene: for a natural and luminous tan

Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, known for its antioxidant properties. It promotes the production of melanin, the natural pigment responsible for skin color, which helps achieve a faster, more even, and longer-lasting tan. It also helps strengthen the skin against external aggressions.

Where to find it?

• Carrot (raw or cooked)

• Sweet potato

• Mango

• Apricot

• Kale

• Spinach or butternut squash
  
  

Beta-carotene is fat-soluble, so consider combining it with a small dose of fat (vegetable oil) for better absorption.

Lycopene: a shield against UV rays

Lycopene is a pigment from the carotenoid family, particularly effective at neutralizing free radicals generated by UV exposure. It thus helps prevent sunburn and limit oxidative stress responsible for skin aging.

Where to find it?

• Tomatoes (even more bioavailable when cooked or in sauce)

• Watermelon

• Papaya

• Guava

• Pink grapefruit

Consuming lycopene regularly improves sun tolerance and acts as a natural anti-inflammatory.

Vitamin C: for firm and radiant skin

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that stimulates collagen synthesis, essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. It strengthens the skin's immune system and helps repair tissue damaged by UV rays.

Where to find it?

• Citrus fruits (orange, lemon, grapefruit)

• Kiwi

• Strawberries

• Red peppers

• Broccoli
  
  

Vitamin C is sensitive to heat, so eat it raw or lightly cooked to retain all its benefits.

Vitamin E: the protector of cell membranes

A fat-soluble antioxidant par excellence, vitamin E protects skin cells by limiting the oxidation of lipids present in cell membranes. It helps preserve hydration, strengthen the skin barrier, and slow aging linked to sun exposure.

Where to find it?

• Almonds

• Hazelnuts

• Lawyer

• Vegetable oils (olive, sunflower, rapeseed)

• Sunflower seeds

In synergy with vitamin C, vitamin E is even more effective in fighting UV damage.

Omega-3: essential fatty acids for soothed skin

Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids known for their anti-inflammatory properties. They reduce redness, prevent dehydration, and help maintain supple and resilient skin. They also play a role in cell regeneration.

Where to find them?

• Oily fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines)

• Chia seeds

• Flax seeds

• Nut

• Rapeseed or linseed oil

Consider adding chia seeds to your smoothies or yogurts for a subtle but powerful boost of omega-3s.

Water

Hydration is just as important: drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day to maintain your skin's elasticity.

To be sure to get enough good nutrients, you can rely on food supplements to prepare your skin for the sun .

Exfoliation and hydration of the skin

Well-protected skin also means healthy skin. For both the face and body, it's important to remove dead skin cells with a gentle exfoliation once or twice a week. This helps your skincare products penetrate better, as well as creating a more golden and even tan.

Generously moisturize your skin with products rich in moisturizing active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or vegetable oils (jojoba, argan, etc.). Nourished skin is less vulnerable to external aggressions.

Face and body protection during exposure

Even prepared skin needs to be actively protected during sun exposure.

Apply suitable sun protection

Your face and body need to be protected from UV rays from the beginning and throughout your exposure. This is true whether you're enjoying a day at the beach, a stroll in the countryside, a drink on a terrace, or a trip to the mountains. Whatever your activity, if you spend time outdoors, your skin needs UV protection.

Sunscreen is your best friend against UVA/UVB rays. Apply it generously to all exposed areas and reapply every two hours, as well as after swimming or exercising.

Which SPF index should I choose?

Sun protection is always identifiable by its SPF index.

• For very fair and sensitive skin, choose an SPF 50+.

• For light to dark skin, choose an SPF 30 to 50 depending on the intensity of the sun.

• For dark to medium skin tones, choose an SPF 30 or higher.

When in doubt, opt for SPF 50, which will provide good protection in most situations.

For your face, you can opt for an invisible and effective sunscreen serum . This will allow you to take care of your skin while protecting it from the sun. Also consider using sunscreen for your lips .

Complete your protection with clothing and accessories

Clothing and accessories are the best way to protect yourself from the sun's rays, which is why they're recommended for toddlers. Choose lightweight but covering clothing and natural materials like cotton or linen, which are naturally breathable.

Accessorize with a wide-brimmed hat, cap, or high UV-rated sunglasses.

The importance of hydration after sun exposure

The sun dries out the skin. It's therefore important to prepare your skin for the sun, protect it during exposure, and moisturize it afterward. Use an after-sun treatment rich in soothing and hydrating active ingredients. Aloe vera, coconut oil, and hyaluronic acid are excellent ways to restore the skin's barrier and prolong the glow of your tan.

Your skin absorbs skincare products more quickly after exposure. Don't hesitate to reapply if it feels tight or dehydrated. To boost your hydration, drink enough water, eat foods rich in water, and rely on food supplements to hydrate and repair your skin .

Get a tanned complexion without UV exposure

If you want to achieve a tanned complexion without exposing yourself to the sun's rays, there are many self-tanning products available for both your face and body. Thanks to their well-designed formulations, application is easy for a very natural, streak-free result.

Important: Self-tanning does not protect against the sun. Even if you have a tan, your skin needs sunscreen during any exposure.

Prepare your skin before application

A good self-tanner isn't enough! Prepare your skin before using it to ensure a flawless finish.

• Exfoliate your skin the day before to remove dead cells (gentle body and face scrub).

• Moisturize dry areas (elbows, knees, ankles) to avoid overpigmentation.

• Apply the product evenly, in circular motions, and let it dry thoroughly before getting dressed.

How to choose a self-tanner?

A good self-tanner offers streak-free, orange-toned results. Here are some criteria for choosing the right one.

Choose a self-tanner with natural DHA

DHA (dihydroxyacetone) is the key active ingredient in any self-tanner. It reacts with the amino acids in the stratum corneum to temporarily color the skin. A self-tanner enriched with natural DHA (often derived from sugar cane or beetroot) allows for a more gradual, more natural tan, and, above all, better tolerated by sensitive skin.

Check for the presence of moisturizing active ingredients

A quality self-tanner doesn't just color the skin; it also cares for it. Moisturizing agents like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and vegetable oils (argan, coconut, jojoba) contribute to an even result, without dry patches or a "peeling" effect.

Choose a clean formula, without controversial ingredients

Because self-tanners are applied regularly, it's best to choose a formula that's kind to your skin and the environment. Avoid products containing:

• Parabens

• Occlusive silicones

• Synthetic dyes

• Too aggressive perfumes

Choose the texture that suits you

The application experience is as important as the result! Self-tanners now come in several forms, each with its own benefits:

• Mist : Light, perfect for quick, contactless application.

• Mousse : airy texture, easy to spread, ideal for beginners.

• Milk or cream : nourishing, they are suitable for dry skin.

• Self-tanning drops : mix with your day cream for a subtle and gradual effect.

What do you think of institute solutions?

Some salon treatments may seem magical. But not all are equal in terms of safety and skin-friendly treatment. Let's take a look at the two main options: self-tanning showers and UV booths.

Self-tanning showers: the ally for an even, UV-free tan

Self-tanning showers, also known as spray tans, are now a popular solution for achieving a quick, even, and safe tan for the skin.

How does it work?

You're seated in a booth where a micro-mist system diffuses a self-tanner (usually DHA-based) over your entire body. Within minutes, your skin takes on a golden hue, without exposure to UV rays.

The advantages

• Immediate and uniform result, without traces

• No risk from UV rays

• Suitable for all skin types

• Ideal for one-off events (weddings, evenings, holidays, etc.)

The tan is temporary (5 to 7 days depending on care and skin type). The product does not protect from the sun: sunscreen remains essential in case of exposure.

The self-tanning shower is therefore a safe, effective and express option for those who want a beautiful tanned complexion without exposing themselves.

UV cabins: a false good idea to avoid

Contrary to popular belief, UV cabin sessions do not prepare the skin for the sun. In fact, they expose it to artificial rays (mainly UVA), which are almost as harmful as those from natural sunlight.

Risks associated with UV rays in the cabin:

• Accelerated skin aging (loss of elasticity, wrinkles, brown spots)

• Alteration of skin cell DNA

• Increased risk of skin cancers, including malignant melanoma

• Overall weakening of the skin barrier

Several studies have shown that artificial UV exposure is just as dangerous as natural exposure. As such, the WHO classifies UV cabins as definite human carcinogens (Group 1).

Protecting your skin means making the right choices! Give it a natural glow without compromising your health with the right skincare.

DAY+ sun care: the combination of protection and care

At DAY+, we've developed a range of sun care products that combine protection, hydration, and skincare. Our formulas are designed to provide optimal UV protection while enhancing your skin with natural ingredients and a clean beauty approach.

Day+ sun care products are:

• Ultra-concentrated formulas with protective active ingredients

• Natural ingredients for clean products without silicones, parabens, or controversial ingredients

• A light texture for rapid absorption

• Creations made in France

• An ethical and cruelty-free commitment