Diary

As summer unfolds, you may be looking for ways to extend the life of your hard-earned summer glow. By taking care of your skin and adhering to a few simple tricks, you’ll be glowing for weeks to come. Whether it’s with a sun-friendly skincare regime, diet, food supplements, or daily hygiene, Canopéa is here to help you deploy a plan of attack!

Extending your tan requires preparation

In a perfect world, who wouldn’t love to sport a summer tan all year round? For most of us, however, this isn’t safe or practical. But by following a few easy-to-maintain rituals, you can safely and easily extend your tan well beyond your summer holiday. And always remember, a radiant and long-lasting tan begins with your first exposure to the summer sun. The key is to start gradually -- and always apply sunscreen based on your personal phototype. 

Hydration is critical for a long-lasting tan

Beautiful skin, especially summer skin, requires excellent hydration. That said, we understand that for some, putting heavy creams on your body can feel heavy! If this applies to you, consider opting for a light moisturizer, a hydrating gel-cream or a facial serum. Skin that’s regularly exposed to the damaging effects from the sun, wind, water, and sand, dries out much faster, especially on vacation. Vegetable oils are great for these areas, providing both moisturizing and nourishing benefits for your skin. Consider buriti and carrot oils; both are very concentrated in carotenoids, coconut oil and tahiti monoï -- and have heavenly fragrances. Shea butter is another product that will pamper your skin. The fact remains, though, the fatty nature of oils can be off-putting to some. If you fall into this category, consider a dry oil that will give you satiny skin without the greasy effect. Aloe vera gel, another much-loved option, is appreciated as much for its strong moisturizing power as for its particularly pleasant, non-sticky texture.

Scrub your way to the ultimate glow

The sun causes uneven thickening of the skin, as well as an accumulation of dead cells on the surface of the skin. A gentle scrub once or twice a week will do wonders for your skin. Fear not, though; ridding yourself of dead cells won't make your tan disappear. On the contrary, it will be more radiant and long-lasting

Dietary supplements that prepare and enhance

Dietary supplements can be taken 15 days before exposure to the sun, to properly prepare your skin for what’s to come. Taking a second round of supplements on your return from vacation will allow you to extend your tan. Choose products that contain carotenoids, plant pigments, vitamins and antioxidants, such as selenium and zinc. Their main action is to boost the skin's natural defenses against UV rays, while at the same time, slightly enhancing your skin’s pigmentation. Another product worth considering is self-tanning capsules. They often contain the identical active ingredients in dietary supplements, but are more concentrated in carotenoids, further enhancing your summer glow.

Fresh foods that radiate warm, summery tones

To maintain your tan, don’t forget that the carotenoids contained in food supplements are naturally present in everyday foods like peppers, tomatoes, carrots, apricots, cantaloup, watermelon, peaches, cabbage, broccoli, and so many more. To change it up a bit, these carotenoid-rich foods can also be consumed as fresh juices or smoothies. And remember, to properly hydrate your skin, it’s important to drink 1.5 liters of water daily. It’s worth noting that infused water, fruit juices, herbal tea, tea, coffee, etc. also contribute to your hydration.

Creams and light cosmetics add a finishing touch

Another way to maintain and/or enhance that radiant summer glow is by applying transparent products that brighten and even out your skin tone, like BB creams. Applying light touches of blush and sun powders will also preserve the natural, sun-kissed look.

When August fades to September

Late-summer and early-autumn are particularly pleasant times of year; the days are cooler, and the sun’s rays are gentler on your skin. Take this time to get outdoors and fully enjoy the final days of summer sun … while reaping the benefits from nature at the same time. Walks, outdoor sports, BBQs and picnics are all great ways to maintain your glow. And, what’s even better, they’ll naturally lift your spirits!