Whether you are jetting off on a sun-filled holiday during the summer, spring, winter or autumn months, you can still achieve a fabulous glow. Many people worry about the use of fake tan and whether it can stop you from getting a natural tan from the sunshine. Thankfully, the answer is no. But with that in mind, don't forget that you'll also still need to protect yourself from the sun's UV rays and prevent the risk of skin damage by using suncream. To understand how and why you can still tan naturally even when you have a gorgeous fake tan, you need to understand a little about how self tanning works...

How do self tanning products work?

When you apply your favourite fake tan, it's not just a simple step of coating your skin with a layer of tan. Tanning products contain ingredients called DHA that react with dead skin cells to alter the colour of the skin. This means the body sheds your newly sun-kissed skin cells after around 7-10 days, which is why you need to apply fake tan regularly to maintain an ideal tan. 

The transition from fake tan to a real tan

For some people, fake tan can mean they burn easier so, if you find you have naturally fair skin, you should ensure you layer up on sunscreen when getting a natural tan. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 to 30, which will protect your skin from harmful sun rays whilst still allowing you to achieve a fabulous even tan. If you apply the correct amount of sunscreen, you can achieve a natural tan via the sunshine through your self-tanner. 

Self-tanners don’t stop you from achieving a real tan but sometimes it is recommended you put on an extra layer of fake tan before hitting the sunshine as it can help form an extra barrier between the skin and the sun. When your fake tan starts to disappear, a beautiful base tan will appear.

Achieving a perfect tan

During the transition from a fake tan to real tan, you will want to ensure you achieve the best results possible and there are many ways to do this. Firstly, keep your skin hydrated as dehydrated skin can cause a patchy transition. Secondly, use moisturisers all over your body before you head into the sun. 

If you're looking for a perfect tan to leave you looking and feeling fabulous, check out the range by MyTanLondon.