A luminous, long-lasting tan: how do you prepare your skin for the sun

With the arrival of summer, it's time to soak up the sun and rediscover a luminous complexion. But before running out under the UV rays, a little preparation is in order: because well-nourished, moisturized and protected skin tans better... and longer.

Targeted nutrition, antioxidant-rich skin care and natural supplements: discover our advice on how to prepare your skin for the sun, inside and out, and enjoy a beautiful summer... in complete safety.

Foods that prepare skin for the sun

While tanning is a natural phenomenon, it can be supported by a targeted diet. Certain foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins and natural pigments help the skin to better resist UV rays, while revealing a more luminous complexion. This is the case with beta-carotene, a natural pigment from the carotenoid family that is doubly beneficial to the skin:

It accelerates the synthesis of melanin and promotes a tanned complexion. In fact, the greater the quantity of carotenoids in the body, the more melanocytes produce the melanin responsible for tanning.. And tanning is a first barrier of protection, naturally filtering out ultraviolet rays.
It has anti-free radical properties. In other words, beta-carotene helps protect the skin against the free radicals responsible for premature skin ageing, particularly those generated by prolonged exposure to the sun.

Beta-carotene is found in many fruits and vegetables:

Foods rich in beta-carotene

Raw carrots
Sweet potatoes
Red peppers
Pumpkin
Mangoes
Melons
Tomatoes>
Apricots
Spinach
Kale

Tip These foods are even more effective when eaten with a drizzle of organic olive oil for better absorption.

Lycopene-rich foods

lycopene-rich fruits - La Boite à Grains

Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that helps to reduce UV damage.
It is found in :

Tomatoes (even more so when cooked!)
Watermelon
Pink grapefruit

Focus on tomatoes

The star of the summer season isn't here by chance. Nature has thought of everything to boost our defenses during the summer! Tomatoes are rich in vitamin E, vitamin C, beta-carotene and lycopene, all antioxidant compounds. This makes them ideal for combating the free radicals responsible for premature cell ageing.

Good fats for supple skin

Omega-3s protect skin cells, reduce inflammation and improve suppleness.

Put them on your menu:

Oily fish (sardines, mackerel, salmon)
Flax and chia seeds
Nuts

Natural antioxidants

They limit oxidative stress caused by exposure to the sun.

Perfect to incorporate :

Green tea / Matcha
Turmeric (combined with black pepper)
Red berries
Dark chocolate (>70%)

And, of course, hydration!

Well-moisturized skin tans more beautifully and remains more supple. Don't forget to drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water a dayIt's a good idea to choose water-rich foods such as cucumbers, lettuce, celery and watermelon.

Recipe idea Blend the flesh of a watermelon with organic Quebec strawberries and a handful of fresh mint in a blender. Your dose of beta-carotene to stimulate melanin and vitamin C to boost collagen production.

Skin care for a radiant complexion

Now that you've mastered the basics of which foods to choose, let's move on to more specific skin care products. From the very first weeks of spring, incorporating the right skincare products helps strengthen the skin barrier, protect against free radicals and promote an even tan. Here are our essentials.

Your natural suncare allies

Supplements such as lutein, astaxanthin or borage oil act as an internal antioxidant shield. They support the skin's natural response to the sun, while preventing premature aging.

In store:

Protective plant oils for external use

Some plant oils naturally contain protective compounds that prepare the skin for the sun while nourishing the epidermis. Use as a daily skin care product or a few drops in your cream.

Carrot oil

Prepares the skin and brightens the complexion. Thanks to the vitamin A it contains, the skin is more resistant to ultra-violet rays. It also provides a natural tan because its orangey hue takes effect immediately upon application, giving us an instant healthy glow. Apply over a few days, carrot oil naturally replaces self-tanner to give you a healthy glow.

Buriti oil

Rich in omega 6 and 9, with a high concentration of beta-carotene (pro-vitamin A), This gives it significant antioxidant powers, enabling it to absorb some UV rays and trap free radicals. It is recommended for preparing skin for the sun, but also as an after-sun treatment to maintain a tan.

Apricot kernel oil

Suitable for both dry and combination skin, apricot kernel oil helps strengthen the hydrolipidic film and moisturizes the skin. In addition to its moisturizing action, this vegetable oil provides a healthy glow thanks to its high provitamin A content. Rich in vitamin E and phytosterols, apricot kernel oil also combats the signs of aging. It is well tolerated by even the most sensitive skin, such as that of babies. It can therefore be used to prepare the skin before and after the sun.

After-sun beauty oil recipe

In a glass bottle pour:

40 ml carrot oil macerate
30 ml of apricot kernel oil
20 ml coconut oil
10 drops of carrot essential oil
10 drops of vanilla oil

Shake well and use on clean skin after sun exposure. In addition to natural fragrance, it will rebalance skin hydration, repair and prolong your tan.

Antioxidant-rich moisturizers

For supple, resistant, radiant skin, opt for skin care products rich in vitamin C, E, hyaluronic acid or coenzyme Q10.

In store:

Post-sun hydration

Maintain your tan with a generous moisturizing after each exposure.

Our favorites :

Pure aloe vera gel (repairing, soothing)

● Body butters and creams enriched with vegetable oils (shea, avocado, argan) like that of Nia Pure with organic moringa oil and organic cupuaçu butter.

The right gestures for radiant skin all summer long

Routine tip :

Start your "sun cure" around 2 to 3 weeks before exposure to the sun and continue throughout the summer to protect, nourish and enhance the skin.

Products and diet are essential, but daily habits make all the difference in keeping skin healthy in the sun.

Anticipation: the key to a long-lasting tan

Start incorporating "pre-sun" skin care products and foods at least 2 to 3 weeks before first exposure to the sun. This gives the skin time to strengthen itself naturally.

Apply appropriate sun protection

Even if your skin is well-prepared, physical or natural sun protection remains essential, especially during the most intense hours (11am-4pm).

In store:

Green Beaver Canadian sunscreens

Cover smart

A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and light clothing allow you to tan gradually without damaging your skin. Burning doesn't mean tanning!

Drink more than usual

Exposure to the sun dehydrates the skin. Remember to drink water, fresh herbal teas or coconut water regularly to maintain optimal hydration.

Soothe and repair after exposure

In the evening, take the time to generously moisturize your skin with a nourishing, soothing treatment to prolong the radiance of your tan and prevent flaking.

In conclusion

The sun is a precious ally... provided you're well prepared.
By taking care of your skin inside and out, you'll promote a radiant, healthy and, above all, long-lasting tan.

At La Boîte à Grains, we've selected natural products that respect your skin and the environment - so you can enjoy summer to the full, with complete peace of mind.

About the author

Ophélie Thieblemont, holistic esthetician and head of cosmetics and supplements at La Boite à Grains du Plateau

In-depth knowledge of :