How to trigger melanin in the skin for tanning

With the arrival of summer, we start hunting down the perfect swimmers, putting together plans for the beach or pool and, of course, experimenting with all the possible ways we can boost our tan. MartiDerm wants to help you get a radiant colour safely by triggering the melanin in your skin. Read on to find out how to keep your skin healthy and protected during the hottest part of year.

What is melanin and what does it do for our skin?

Melanin is the pigment found in a number of body cells responsible for determining the colour of our skin. Its main function is to protect us - through tanning - from the action of ultraviolet rays that can cause the appearance of dark spots, the acceleration of photoaging and the growth of different types of cancer.

Tanning is a response mechanism by our skin to the sun's rays that can destroy cell DNA by penetrating deep into the layers of the skin. Our body produces melanin to protect us from cell damage, acting as an umbrella against solar radiation, preventing it from penetrating the heart of cells and thus damaging the genetic material they are made from.

However, our body cannot act alone. During this process we must help it by providing a shield that allows us to protect the surface layers of our skin. This is where sunscreen comes in.

Even if your goal is to get the darkest, most even tan around, you should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen suitable for your skin type.

How to trigger melanin and get tanned skin?

Exposure to the sun for hours at a time (and without sun protection) should never be an option. Below, we share two alternatives you can onboard into your daily routine to get an attractive tan safely this summer, thanks to melanin activation:

Eat foods rich in antioxidants

Diet is key to healthy skin and an ally for boosting your tan. There are a number of foods you can eat to complement your skincare and sun protection routine:

• ● Antioxidants: blueberries, aubergines and avocado are rich in vitamin C and zinc and can help you get the colour you want.
• ● Beta-carotene: foods rich in beta-carotene have an antioxidant action that will protect your skin cells from free radicals. These foods include carrot, tomato, plum, apricot, pumpkin and peach.
• ● Fatty acids: oily fish and nuts give the skin elasticity and help a tan last longer.

Use products that stimulate melanin production

In addition to the right sunscreen, you can use products that help trigger melanin and thus safely boost and prolong your tan. At MartiDerm we have two products that should feature in your toiletry bag this summer:

Bronze [D] Body Spray SPF30

The tan extender, Bronze [D] Body Spray SPF30 is a two-phase fast-absorbing body sunscreen for all skin types. The formula contains Melanin Active (an active ingredient that helps enhance a natural tan) and Vitamin D Like (responsible for maintaining the skin barrier function).

Volunteers who used this product from MartiDerm's Sun Care range said it left their skin radiant (85%*) and prolonged their natural tan (88%*). To apply it to the body, simply shake until a homogeneous mixture is obtained and spread evenly over exposed areas (30 minutes before going out in the sun). Enjoy increased protection by reapplying frequently, especially after sweating, bathing or drying off.

Bronze [D] Fluid SPF30

Prolong your tan this summer with Bronze [D] Fluid SPF30, a facial sunscreen with a fluid texture that is water-resistant and ophthalmologically tested to ensure good eye tolerance. This sun protection product leaves the skin moisturised (97%**) and helps extend your tan while activating the skin's natural defences for a radiant result thanks to the presence of Melanin Active in its formula.

According to a clinical study, Bronze [D] Fluid SPF30 increases tanning by 18% after 13 days***. You too can enjoy this benefit by gently massaging the product into your face, neck and neckline (30 minutes before going out in the sun). Don't forget to reapply whenever necessary!

MartiDerm cares about the environment. That's why both our products are sea friendly, i.e., they use a lower concentration of filters harmful to the seas and oceans.

Now that you know how to trigger melanin through sun products and foods that complement a nutrient-rich diet, are you ready for your best tan this summer? Take care of your skin and avoid prolonged exposure to enjoy the sun safely.

References:

*Clinical study under dermatological control. ** Subjective assessment of efficacy after 14 days of use. Ref: 23-0490/0.

*Use test under dermatological control. Subjective assessment of efficacy. Ref: VV_CC-HUT/30XT2(DF)A_071_21_003.

***Maximum tan improvement. Ref: VV_ET-4/20DXT4(D)-A_071_21_001.