You want to get a sun-kissed look for summer, but you're scared to go out in the sun because you have fair skin and freckles.
With our easy-to-follow guide, you can get a natural-looking tan without having to expose your skin to harmful UV rays. In just minutes a day, you'll see a noticeable difference in the color of your skin.
Learn how to tan with fairness and freckles using these easy steps explained in this guide. Our tips will help protect your fair skin while still giving you that beautifully bronzed glow.
How to Tan with Fair Skin and Freckles
You never know how to deep tan properly, no matter how many times you try. Your skin burns easily, and your freckles stand out even more when you're darker.
With the right tips, you can learn how to tan fair skin and freckles without burning or turning orange. Plus, your freckles will still show through, giving you a natural sun-kissed look.
Let's take a look at the following 10 tips you can try for your extremely fair skin:
1/ Get Knowledge About Sun Hours
Are you ready to give your skin a golden glow? Before you hit the beach, it's essential to get up-to-date information on the best times to soak in the sun.
During the winter months, it's even more important to be aware of sunlight hours and intensity.
Although the further you are from the equator, the fewer daylight hours there are during these colder months, even those with limited hours of sun can still be damaging to your pale skin if left unprotected.
To stay safe when outside, try to keep your tanning sessions to earlier in the morning, between 8 am and 10 am, or later in the day after 4 pm. This way, you'll get that healthy glow without overexposure.
2/ Build Your Tan Up Slowly
If you have fair skin and are looking to get a nice, healthy tan this summer, then you should consider taking your time.
Building your tan up slowly is the best way to avoid nasty sunburns and other skin cells damage. For starters, set aside 10 minutes each day for a small sun session.
As your time in the sun increases, you'll begin to become more resistant and will be able to stay out longer without feeling uncomfortable.
And if the heat does become too much for you, just take a few steps into the shade for some cool relief.
3/ Use Self-Tanning Lotion and Spray Tan: Fake Tan
For those with fair skin and freckles, self-tanning lotions and sprays can be a great way to get that bronzed look without the fear of burning or exposing your skin too much.
These products are formulated to give you a natural-looking tan in just minutes, and they won't damage your skin like sunbathing will. Plus, you'll still have freckles showing through for an even better effect.
When using these products, make sure you follow the instructions closely - if it says to wash off after a certain amount of time, then do so precisely. The wrong usage of these tanners could lead to an orangey mess instead of the perfect bronze color you're looking for.
We have found the best tanning lotion for you. You can use it:
Beauty by Earth Self Tanner
This revolutionary self-tanner comes in two shades so that everyone can find the perfect fit for their skin tone. If you have fair or pale skin, apply the fair to medium shade for an even and light tan. For those with olive or easily tanned skin, use the medium to-dark option to achieve a more intense shade of bronze. With this self-tanner, you can guarantee a beautiful and natural glow that won’t make you look orange.
4/ Allow Your Skin to Rest
Tanned skin needs to be taken care of. During your sun tanning journey, make sure to give yourself a break every now and then.
This means avoiding direct sunlight for at least two days out of the week. During these days, you should also stay away from using any self-tanning products or lotions as well.
Your skin needs time to heal and repair itself in between treatments, so take it easy. Following this rule will ensure that your tan looks natural and lasts longer.
5/ Use Sun Protection (Sunscreen)
No matter your skin tone, sunscreen is always important when tanning. Not only will it help protect you from the harmful UV rays of the sun, but it can also keep your skin looking smooth and healthy.
Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and apply it generously to all exposed areas before going outside. Reapplying every two hours will also ensure that your skin stays protected throughout the day - even if you're just walking around or poolside lounging.
We have already done the research and found this sun protection sunscreen for you.
Sun Bum Original SPF 70 Sunscreen
This sunscreen is an absolute must-have for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. With the dermatologist and Sonny's approval, you know the quality of this product is guaranteed. When you lather up with this product, you'll be covered by broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and packed with Vitamin E goodness.
6/ Feed Your Skin While Tanning
When it comes to tanning, many people are aware of the importance of protecting their freckled skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. But did you know that proper nutrition can also help protect your skin while tanning?
Eating a well-balanced diet full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants are essential to keeping your skin looking and feeling its best.
The most important component of a healthy diet while tanning is Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and flaxseed oil.
Omega-3 fatty acids possess an anti-inflammatory effect that helps reduce redness and discomfort associated with sunburns.
They are also known for their ability to promote collagen production in the skin and improve moisture retention, thus keeping your skin hydrated and comfortable while outdoors.
Additionally, omega 3s have been linked to a reduction in the risk of skin cancer due to their antioxidant properties that help fight free radicals generated by UV radiation.
7/ Use Broad-Brimmed Hat
A broad-brimmed hat is an easy and effective way to protect your face and neck from the sun.
The wider brim will provide more coverage than a standard baseball cap, blocking out those harmful UV rays while you're outside.
Choose a light material like cotton or linen for maximum comfort in the summer heat, but make sure it's thick enough to block out all of the sun's rays.
Our experts tested some of the broad-brimmed hats and found this one suitable for you.
LTM6 Airflo Broad Brim Hat
If you’re looking for a versatile accessory that stands up to virtually any outdoor activity, the LTM6 Airflo Broad Brim Hat is here to save the day. This hat boasts 100% recycled nylon and has a polyurethane membrane, resulting in a piece that is both lightweight and durable. UPF50+ protection means you can feel safe under direct sunlight, and its moisture-wicking hydrofil feature amplifies your experience by keeping you dry and comfortable.
8/ Tan Regularly
Regular tanning is key to achieving a healthy, beautiful glow.
By sticking to a schedule of once or twice per week for no more than 20 minutes each tanning session, you can build up your natural melanin production and create an even, golden complexion.
You should also try to tan during the cooler parts of the day when UV radiation levels are lower to minimize your sun exposure and protect your skin from burning.
These tips are perfect for fair-skinned individuals with freckles looking to achieve a sun-kissed look without risking their health. With patience and dedication, you'll be on your way to achieving that radiant bronze color in no time.
9/ Never Forget to Moisturize
When you're done tanning fair skin, make sure to apply a good layer of moisturizer. Moisturizing is essential for maintaining the softness and elasticity of the skin after a long day in the sun.
Look for lotions that are specifically designed for tanned skin, as these will help keep your color looking more vibrant and natural.
Keeping your skin hydrated is also key to avoiding premature aging and wrinkling, both of which can be caused by excessive UV exposure. So don't forget to slather on some lotion when you're done.
You don't have to look through thousands of reviews to find the perfect moisturizer for your skin. We have done the research and found this moisturizer for you.
Paula's Choice Moisturizer SPF 30
Paula's Choice Moisturizer SPF 30 is an amazing product for those looking to achieve a healthy, hydrated glow while protecting their skin from sun damage. Not only does it provide UVA/UVB broad-spectrum sun protection, but it also includes nourishing antioxidants and plant extracts to soothe the skin. Those with fair skin and freckles who want a safe way to tan can use Paula's Choice SPF 30 Moisturizer and tan accelerator to get the perfect look without risking long-term health consequences of over-exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays.
10/ Tanning Bed: Not Suitable For Everyone
Tanning beds allow users to achieve a sun-kissed tan from the comfort of their homes or at a salon.
While there are some advantages to using tanning beds, such as convenience and cost savings, there are also drawbacks to consider.
The main benefit of using tanning beds is that it is much more convenient than laying out in the sun for hours.
Tanning beds allow you to tan in a controlled environment and get an even, all-over tan in just a few minutes.
It makes them popular among those who want to achieve that perfect summer glow but don't have the time or dedication to spend hours under direct sunlight.
On the other hand, one of the biggest drawbacks of tanning beds is that they can increase your risk of skin cancer due to overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
The risk is particularly high for those who are already fair-skinned or have had skin cancer before. So, try to avoid too many tanning beds or tanning booths to not develop skin cancer. Instead, fair skinned people can try spray tanning.
In addition, prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause premature aging, such as wrinkles and age spots, as well as other common problems like redness and dryness.
How to tan with fair skin and freckles - FAQs
The following are some commonly asked questions about tanning with fair skin and freckles:
Is it possible to tan if you have freckles?
Yes. Freckles are essentially pigmented spots and, like any other part of your olive skin, they can be tanned. The number of freckles you have will determine how dark the tan will be.
How do I prevent freckles while tanning?
By using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher will protect your skin from the sun's UVB rays, which are the rays responsible for causing freckles. In fact, tanning hide freckles.
Why won't my skin tan?
One possibility is that you have a low level of melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its color and helps protect it from the sun's UV rays. It may be due to genetics. Some people's skin just doesn't tan well.
It might also be because you are not getting enough sunlight. The body needs sunlight to produce vitamin D, which is necessary for the skin to tan.
If you are using sunscreen, that may be another reason why your skin won't tan. Sunscreen blocks the ultraviolet radiation from the sun that is necessary for the body to produce vitamin D.
How can I make my pale freckles tan?
There are a few things you can do to make your pale freckles tan. One thing you can do is increase your intake of beta-carotene, which is a nutrient found in orange vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes.
Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A by the body, and vitamin A is known to promote skin pigmentation.
Another thing you can do is apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when going outside. Sunscreen will help protect your skin from sunburn and from the harmful UV rays that can cause skin damage and premature aging.
Is there a pill to take to make you tan?
No, there is no pill to take to make you tan. The only way to get a tan is to expose your skin to UV radiation from the sun or from a sun bed.
Conclusion
It can be difficult to tan with fair skin and freckles, but it can be done safely and effectively. Start by protecting your skin with sunscreen of at least SPF 30 or higher.
You can also increase your intake of beta-carotene to help promote skin pigmentation and use a tanning bed instead of the sun if you need to get an even tan in a controlled environment.
By following these tips, you should have no problem getting a beautiful winter glow while also protecting yourself from damage caused by UV radiation. If you have some more tips to tan with fair skin and freckles, then share them with all of us in the comments below.
References
- Diffey, B. L., & Norridge, Z. (2013). Reported sun exposure, attitudes to sun protection and perceptions of skin cancer risk: A survey of visitors to Cancer Research UK's SunSmart campaign website. British Journal of Dermatology, 168(1), 43–50.
- The Skin We Live in: Pigmentation Traits and Tanning Behaviour in British Young Adults, an Observational and Genetically-Informed Study