How to prolong that summer glow with clever skincare

As summer draws to a close, some of us aren’t quite ready to let go of our holiday glows.

With our natural tans inevitably beginning to fade, you may be on the lookout for the best products that can help draw out your beachy bronze, or perhaps a fake tan that can give your skin the boost it needs for the damp autumnal months.

We hear from tanning experts the best methods to build, maintain and prolong your summer glow.

How to maintain a natural tan

Prolonging a natural tan is all about investing in your skin. “Moisturising is the key to prolonging a summer glow,” says Hayley Walker, beauty expert at Justmylook.

Opting for products with rich ingredients such as vitamin B, C and E ensures the skin has the building blocks to cultivate and prolong a natural tan. “The infusion of vitamin E and shea butter in a moisturiser helps to prolong your tan,” says Nicky Matthews, founder of Sienna X, “whether it’s from self-tan or even the natural rays.”

The Body Shop Shea Body Butter, £19

How to build a subtle fake tan 

“The best subtle tans are those with a low DHA, such as lotions,” says Greenhalgh, “these customisable formulas contain a lower concentration of DHA so you can gradually build up a natural looking tan day after day. These are great not only for a bespoke tan but for beginners too.”

Greenhalgh recommends using a gradual tanning lotion over the course of three days so you can curate your tan to your preference.

Bare by Vogue Tinted Gradual Tan, £22, Beauty Bay

What about my face?

When it comes to face fake tanning, there’s a fine line between bronzed goddess and former US president Donald Trump’s orange mishap. “Mixing tanning drops into your favourite moisturiser puts you in control here,” says Greenhalgh.

Evolve Organic Beauty Sunless Glow Gradual Tan, £20

How to evenly fade your fake tan

In order to maintain an even coverage as your tan slowly fades, you should avoid taking long hot baths or showers that can dry out the skin and cause flakiness.

“After showers, pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing as this can break down your tan,” says Brownlow. “Another tan fader is chlorine,” says Greenhalgh, “so try to avoid swimming pools too.”

When it comes to evenly fading your fake tan, Greenhalgh advises to use an oil-free moisturiser, “Most fake tan formulas are broken down with heavy, oily products. So, to prolong your colour, make sure you use oil-free body care to enhance your tan and prevent fading.”