With summer in full force, I’ve had to exercise some serious self-restraint when it comes to soaking up the sunshine. Since my complexion has always aired on the, errm, Casper side of the spectrum, I’ve been envious of the olive skinned since I can remember. Though we don’t condone baking your bod for hours on end, we certainly do understand the universal longing for luminous skin. We’ve already given you the low down on how to protect your body’s largest organ, so it seems about time we let you in on how to enhance this important asset.

Now before you launch right into applying lotion, you need to consider how you’re treating your skin on the inside and out. You heard me – there’s a chance that all those poolside margs aren’t exactly improving your complexion. First thing’s first: hydrate. Keep a water bottle by your side so that when thirst strikes you can avoid ducking into the nearest convenience store for a delicious, but caloric, iced tea. Not a huge fan of H2O? Reach for a coconut water. With more potassium than a banana and more natural electrolytes than any sugary sports drink around, there’s little not to like.

When it comes to your diet, make sure you’re munching on foods that are high in omega-3s, antioxidants, monosaturated fats, and vitamins A, B and C. This includes but is not limited to: nuts, fish, avocados, citrus fruits, berries, Greek yogurt and olive oil. The above will help to keep your skin firm and glowing by increasing collagen levels. While your diet is not the sole cause of complexion complications, there are certain foods that may encourage irritation depending on the individual. Monitor your body’s reaction to alcohol, refined sugars and caffeine, as these items are most commonly associated with skin problems.

Okay – so you’ve got your insides under control. What’s next? If you’re looking to add a faux glow, it’s important to prep your skin to ensure lasting results. Exfoliating is key, and I am a huge fan of Fresh’s infamous Brown Sugar Body Polish. If you’re prone to breakouts, try a scrub that simultaneously works to control oil, like St. Ives Naturally Clear Apricot Scrub. After sloughing off dead skin cells, you can’t forget to moisturize, as keeping skin hydrated is your best bet for maintaining your tan. Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Body Oil smells delicious and sinks into skin fast after showering, while those with sensitive skin should reach for fragrance free Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion.

Essentials for Getting the Glow

Created on ohthatsyou.com

By EmilyBee

Once your skin is prepped and ready for preening, it’s time to move on to self-tanner. Not all are created equal, and choosing the wrong formula can be a serious deal-breaker. Below is a roundup of the top tanning solutions, depending on your skin type.

• When it comes to buildable color, I keep coming back to Jergens Naural Glow Revitalizing Daily Moisturizer. Found at your neighborhood drugstore, this self-tanner works to keep you streak-free without breaking the bank.
• If you’re after an all natural formula, look no further than Josie Maran’s Argan Self Tanning Cream, which includes aloe vera and organic argan oil to repair and replenish skin cells.
• Looking for a formula sporting sunblock? Clarins Self Tanning Milk has built in sun protection. However, with a rather low SPF 6, we still recommend layering on some sunscreen if you’re headed to the pool.
• If you’re constantly plagued by dry skin, try Alba Botanica’s natural Very Emollient Golden Tanning lotion. Emollients leave skin feeling softer, as they work to sooth and moisturize the skin.
• Want a tan without the wait? Grab a tube of St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse for instant, believable color.

Top photo from www.sheknows.com.au