Glow Smarter: Why the Sun Isn’t the Only Way to Tan This Summer
Written by Malana VanTyler
There’s something about that first summer tan that feels like permission to unwind. Skin glows, moods lift, everything looks a little better with that just-back-from-vacation sheen. But as much as we love a golden finish, dermatologists and beauty insiders alike are rethinking how we get there.
The Case for Smarter Sun Time
There’s no denying the allure. A tan can sculpt the face, bring out definition, and give you that I-woke-up-like-this glow that looks great in every selfie. But the desire to feel good in your skin shouldn’t come at the cost of your skin’s health.The sun isn’t an evil villain. Moderate sun exposure helps our bodies produce vitamin D, which supports everything from bone health to immune function. A little time outdoors can even boost mood and energy levels, plus help regulate your circadian rhythm, making it easier to wind down at night and wake up refreshed. But there’s a fine line between basking and baking.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, UV exposure is the leading cause of premature aging and skin cancer. The general advice? Aim for early morning or late afternoon sun, avoid peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and always protect your skin with SPF. As for that deep bronze tan? It’s often your skin crying out for help.
That’s where SUGARED + BRONZED comes in—particularly with their S+B Tinted Mineral Sunscreen, which delivers broad-spectrum protection with a sun-kissed glow. It’s your way to fake the tan, not the damage.
The Luxe Alternative to Sun Tanning
Founded on the belief that self-care should be both clean and indulgent, SUGARED + BRONZED has quickly become the go-to for glow-conscious clients across the U.S. Their spray tans are formulated with vegan-friendly, naturally derived ingredients that work with your skin’s chemistry, not against it.The experience itself is designed to pamper. Clients walk into bright spaces inspired by the Mediterranean, with warm tones and calming details that make the treatment feel like a mini-vacation. With locations in New York, California, Texas, Miami, D.C. and Philadelphia), it’s easier than ever to glow up without sun damage.
Plus, in LA, they’ve taken luxury even further by offering mobile tanning services that come to you. Brides book them for wedding day prep, stylists keep them on speed dial for red carpet events, and loyal fans treat their visits like therapy.
"I absolutely love it! The girls are always very professional and quick. It's a very easy and stress-free process. I'm in and out and always feeling great afterwards." — Jackie V.
"I got my first spray tan [at SUGARED + BRONZED] and it was quick, easy and WORTH IT! [My tanning specialist] talked me through the entire thing and answered all of my questions. She made me feel very comfortable, given it was my first time, and she had the best advice on the color and care. I walked out feeling like a bronzed goddess, ready for my Cabo trip!" — Dorothy L.
Smooth Skin Starts Here
Beyond the glow, SUGARED + BRONZED is known for its signature sugaring hair removal, which is a gentle, effective alternative to waxing that dates back to ancient times. Unlike waxing, which can be harsh on the skin, sugaring at SUGARED + BRONZED uses a simple, all-natural paste made from just sugar, lemon juice, and water, without synthetic resins, dyes, or chemicals in sight.It’s not just for women. More men are turning to sugaring for the back, chest, and abs areas. Top reasons include personal grooming and hygiene, long-lasting hair removal, improved muscle definition, and increased confidence.
The Products That Make It Last
To support both services, SUGARED + BRONZED has developed a line of pre- and post-care products. They recently launched their original S+B Ingrown Remedy Roll-On—a must-have for bumps, redness, and irritation that can follow hair removal. It glides on effortlessly and absorbs in seconds to unclog pores, smooth texture, and release trapped hairs before they turn into inflamed ingrowns.For those with dark spots or hyperpigmentation, the S+B Ingrown Remedy Roll-On Plus Brightening PeptidesIngrown Remedy Roll-On with Brightening Peptides is a luxurious upgrade. Brightening peptides, green tea, and ginkgo biloba work together to calm inflammation, support cell turnover, and visibly fade uneven tone in areas like underarms and bikini lines.
No post-care routine is complete without hydration. Enter S+B Hocoba Oil, a lightweight, fast-absorbing moisturizer that soothes the skin and locks in hydration. After exfoliating and treating, this is the essential final step for balanced, comfortable, healthy skin.
