It's always nice to visit the beach for a few hours and then come with a newly tanned body. However, it's a lot less fun to realize that you have embarrassing tan lines from your bathing suit straps, jewelry, and watch. In order to avoid those problems, you have to plan ahead. Before you step into the sun again, you should learn these tips for preventing tan lines:
1. Adjust Your Swimsuit Straps
Tanning naked is the best way to prevent tan lines. Of course, since you probably won't be visiting a nudist beach, you can settle for wearing a strapless bathing suit top. That way, you won't have any tan lines on your shoulders for others to see. Of course, if you already have a gorgeous bathing suit with straps, you can occasionally adjust those straps while you're tanning to make sure that all of the different areas of your skin are exposed to the sun for equal periods of time.
2. Don't Miss a Spot when Applying Sunscreen
Don't underestimate the importance of sunscreen. Even if you want to get tan, you should still apply some lotion to make sure that you don't burn. If you hate tan lines, then it's especially important for you to make sure that you apply the lotion all over. If you miss a spot, then you're going to end up with an uneven tan for weeks.
3. Use a Self Tanner to Avoid the Sun
If you're worried about getting tan lines, you can use a self tanner to darken your skin instead of sitting in the sun for hours. If you already have tan lines, then you can try to use the self tanner to even out your skin tone. Just be careful, because you don't want to end up turning the lines from super pale to super dark.
4. Exfoliate Tan Lines with Honey and Lemon
If you already have tan lines, then you can reduce them by exfoliating with a mixture of honey and lemon juice. Leave the mixture on your skin for a little under a half-hour, and then wash it right off. It won't get rid of your tan lines completely, but it should make them less prominent.
5. Use Foundation on Tan Lines
You don't have to stick to using foundation on your face. If you have tan lines on your shoulders, feel free to pour that foundation onto the spot in order to cover up the area. Just make sure that you blend it into your skin well enough, so that it's not noticeable that you have makeup on your body.
6. Exfoliate Tan Lines with Baking Soda
Baking soda is another great cure for tan lines. All you have to do is mix a cup of it with a tablespoon of sugar and a half cup of water. When you're finished, use it in the shower to exfoliate your skin.
7. Buy a Tan-through Swimsuit
2015 is a magical time. There are now special swimsuits, called "tan-through swimsuits," that allow you to tan right through the fabric. So if you're super self-conscious about tan lines, you can invest in one of these newfangled bathing suits.
Everyone gets tan lines, but no one likes what they look like. That's why you should follow these tips in order to feel beautiful in your skin. Have you gotten a tan this summer?
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I prevent tan lines while wearing a bikini?
- Try using a broad-spectrum sunscreen and apply it evenly all over your exposed skin to avoid uneven tanning.
- What type of sunscreen is best for bikini wearers?
- A water-resistant, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen is ideal for long-lasting protection.
- How often should I reapply sunscreen to prevent tan lines?
- Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating to maintain even coverage.
- Are there specific bikini styles that help reduce tan lines?
- Strapless or seamless bikinis can minimize tan lines since they cover less skin in irregular patterns.
- Can tanning oils help prevent tan lines?
- Tanning oils can enhance color but don’t protect against UV rays, so pair them with sunscreen for safety.
- Is exfoliating helpful in preventing tan lines?
- Yes, exfoliating before sun exposure helps remove dead skin for a more even tan surface.
- How important is after-sun care to maintain an even tan?
- Moisturizing after sun exposure soothes skin and helps prolong an even, healthy-looking tan.
- Can staying in the shade prevent tan lines?
- Shade reduces UV exposure and helps prevent tan lines, but some sun protection is still necessary.
- Are self-tanners a good option to avoid tan lines?
- Self-tanners can create an even color without sun exposure, making them a great alternative to natural tanning.
- What lifestyle habits support healthy skin and reduce tan lines?
- Hydrating well, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours help maintain smooth, even skin tone.