Let’s face it, one of the reasons you go on vacation is to bask in the Caribbean sun and go home refreshed, rested and… tanned. You go back to work and for a few weeks you can enjoy the envious glances from coworkers that weren’t able to vacation in Mexico this year.
Here are some tips on how to get a nice tan and a few ways to make it last longer.
1. Drink one 8-ounce glass of carrot juice
For a couple of weeks leading up to your vacation, drink one 8-ounce glass of carrot juice every day. Yes, carrot juice. It will add a healthy glow to your tan.
2. Exfoliate your whole body
The day before you leave gently exfoliate your whole body to get it ready for a long-lasting tan.
3. Waterproof sunscreen
Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen. Waterproof (and biodegradable, please) sunscreen. This will not stop you from getting a tan, it will prevent you from getting burned. Reapply often. Even if it is cloudy, yes, you still must use sunscreen.
4. Avoid getting burned
Don’t bake in the sun all day every day. Sunbathe for a while in the morning and a while in the afternoon, take breaks. Avoid lying directly in the sun from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Hopefully this will help you to avoid getting burned, which would ruin your sunbathing for the rest of your vacation (and your suntan as well). You will still get tan while sitting in the shade because the sun reflects brightly off the white sand beaches.
5. Bathing suit straps
Move your bathing suit straps periodically. This will help cut down on tan lines.
6. Turn over
Don’t forget to turn over. You don’t want to be tan on one side and white on the other.
7. Drink water
Drink a lot of water. This will help keep you and your skin well hydrated.
8. Wear hat
Wear a scarf or a hat. There’s no need to dry your hair out.
9. Wear sunglasses
If you don’t want to wear sunglasses (read: raccoon eyes and tan lines on your temples.) use two slices of cucumber to protect your eyes.
10. Moisturize
Moisturize every day after showering. Continuing this once you get home will help you to maintain your tan.
