Sunscreen is essential. But protecting your skin from UV rays doesn't stop there. What you put on your plate - and in your supplements - directly influences your skin's ability to prepare, tan, and regenerate. Here's how to approach summer intelligently, from the inside out.
What happens in the skin during sun exposure
UV rays trigger two simultaneous mechanisms in the skin. On one hand, a defense response: the production of melanin, a natural pigment that absorbs UV rays and gives the skin its golden color. On the other, oxidative damage: UV rays generate free radicals that damage skin cells and accelerate aging.
Preparing your skin means boosting the first mechanism while protecting against the second.
Key active ingredients for sun-ready skin
Tyrosine: an amino acid precursor of melanin. When the skin receives UV rays, it activates an enzyme (tyrosinase) that transforms tyrosine into melanin. Providing tyrosine beforehand helps prepare this mechanism for a faster, more even tan.
Beta-carotene: a natural orange pigment and precursor of vitamin A. It provides an immediate tanned complexion and helps prolong your tan throughout sun exposure.
Antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium): neutralize the free radicals generated by UV rays. Vitamin E and selenium help protect cells against oxidative stress; vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation to support the normal function of the skin.
Collagen and hyaluronic acid: the sun breaks down skin collagen and dries out the skin. Acting from within to maintain firmness and hydration helps limit these effects.
Sun-friendly nutrition: foods to prioritize
- Carrots, sweet potatoes, mango: rich in beta-carotene
- Cooked tomatoes: powerful antioxidant lycopene (better absorbed when cooked)
- Oily fish (salmon, sardines): anti-inflammatory omega-3s
- Citrus fruits, kiwi, bell pepper: natural vitamin C
- Almonds, olive oil: vitamin E
- Hydration: at least 1.5 L of water per day, more in hot weather
When should you start a course before summer?
Ideally, start 4 to 6 weeks before your first sun exposure. Active ingredients such as beta-carotene and collagen need time to build up in the tissues and exert their effects. Continuing the course during and after sun exposure prolongs the benefits and supports post-sun skin regeneration.
Epycure's summer solution
The Sun Gummies combine tyrosine (a melanin precursor), copper (which contributes to normal skin pigmentation), beta-carotene for a tanned complexion, and an antioxidant shield (vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, and zinc). Sugar-free formula, cherry flavor, 98.3% naturally sourced ingredients, made in France. This product does not replace sunscreen.
For comprehensive action on your skin's beauty and resilience this summer, the Sun Beauty Duo combines the Plumped Skin Course (Reggenerate™, firmness, hydration) with the Sun Gummies. And for a complete summer routine, the Summer 2026 Pouch brings together the season's essentials.
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