Britain is having a summer to remember. After record-breaking heat swept the country in May and June, above-average temperatures and further hot spells are on the cards for July too, with warmer, sunnier weather forecast for much of the UK. In short: sunbed and beach season isn't slowing down any time soon - and neither should your glow game.
But intense heat means intense sun. Here's how to make the most of it while keeping your skin protected, hydrated and golden all season long.
Why This Matters for Your Tan
Heatwaves are brilliant news for anyone chasing a golden glow - more daylight, more warmth, more excuses to top up your tan. But warmer weather also means your skin loses moisture faster, which can make the difference between a deep, even tan and one that looks dull or patchy.
The good news? A few simple tweaks to your routine are all it takes to make the most of the sunshine.
Our Top Tips for Heatwave-Proof Glowing Skin
Hydrate from the inside out. Heat pulls moisture from your skin fast. Drink more water than usual on hot days, and follow every sun session with a rich, hydrating after-sun gel to lock moisture back in and help your tan develop evenly rather than flaking or fading early.
Choose the right SPF for the conditions. With temperatures climbing, don't skip protection to chase colour faster - the two aren't mutually exclusive. Our SPF Lotion with Bronzer comes in three factors:
SPF 50 - best for the first few days of a heatwave or for fair, sun-sensitive skin, when UV intensity is at its peak
SPF 30 - a solid everyday choice once you've built a little base colour
SPF 15 - for topping up later in your tan when you want lighter, ongoing protection
Prep before you tan. Exfoliate a day or two before sun exposure to slough off dead skin cells. Smoother skin tans more evenly and holds colour for longer - especially important when you're spending more time outdoors than usual.
3. Time it right. The UK's hottest hours during a heatwave tend to fall in the early-to-mid afternoon. Shorter, smarter sessions earlier or later in the day can give you a beautiful glow without the intensity of peak-heat exposure.
4. Moisturise, don't just tan. During extended hot spells, skin can dry out even faster than usual. A daily dose of the Hemp Nation Tan Extenders designed for after-sun care helps maintain that golden colour while keeping skin soft, calm and comfortable.
5. Little and often wins. A gorgeous tan is a long game. Shorter, more frequent sessions build colour more evenly than trying to get it all in one go - and they fit perfectly into a hot, sunny week.
Make This Heatwave Work for You
Every heatwave is a golden opportunity - literally. With the right prep, the right hydration routine and the right aftercare, you can turn this summer's record-breaking temperatures into your best tan yet.
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