Sun safety
Use sunscreen
A good sunscreen is essential, especially
in the harsh South African sun. If the many
different sun-protection factors (SPFs) on
the bottles confuse you, remember one
golden rule: Liberally apply a sunscreen
with an SPF of at least 20, which also
provides UVA protection. Look out for
sunscreens that provide broad-spectrum
protection.
Eat better
The harm done by the combination of
free radicals and sun damage plays a
major role in the visible effects of ageing.
Improve the resistance of your skin by
watching what you eat. Boost your diet
with antioxidants such as vitamins A, C
and E, which are the nemeses of free
radicals. Also eat more green, leafy
vegetables and citrus fruit.
Fake it
The safest suntan comes in a bottle.
If you haven't mastered the application
techniques yet, the thought of younger-
looking, healthy, brown skin should be
encouragement enough to keep trying.
Not to be mixed with the sun
Cigarettes
Smokers are three times more likely than
non-smokers to develop certain types of
skin cancer.
Birth-control pills
The levels of hormones in your body are
altered, which is why you're more prone
to pigmentation. Pregnancy will have a
similar effect.
Perfume
Some fragrances burn, stain or irritate the
skin when worn in the sun.
Camouflage sunburn
Take two aspirin for the swelling and
place cool camomile tea bags on your
face. Or try plain yoghurt and cucumber.
Don't try to hide the redness under
foundation – this will only draw more
attention to it. Rather use a tinted
moisturiser.
Avoid brightly coloured or very dark
lipstick, as it doesn't go well with a
sunburnt face. Rather apply a small
amount of clear lip gloss.
Drink more water than you normally do
to combat dehydration, and stay out of
the sun entirely for at least a day.
Preparation Is key
Most self-tan products temporarily make
the amino acids in your skin darker.
Preparation is the key to ensuring natural-
looking results.
Exfoliate your skin to ensure even
application, and moisturise the dry areas.
Blot the elbows, knees and ankles
carefully with a tissue to remove any
excess product.
Remember to wash your hands after
applying self-tanning products.
Wait at least 20 minutes after applying
the product, before getting dressed or
going to bed. When you do get dressed,
opt for dark, loose-fitting clothes, and
don't shower or exercise for at least two
hours afterwards.
Many beauty salons now offer instant-
bronzing treatments where a therapist
applies the product for you. This is a
great option if you're hesitant to do it
yourself
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