There are several types of self-tanners available on the market: foam, gel, lotion and spray. Each of them should be applied in a precise way to avoid unsightly spots. Learn step by step how to get a gorgeous tan without hours in the sun!
The truth is, we women love to be tanned. Not only do we associate it with coming back from an exotic vacation, but a tan makes us feel fresh, young, and sexy. Some even say that a tanned body looks slimmer. Fortunately, the drugstore market, unlike in Poland, lets us have year-round bronze color. Self-tanners have long conquered the hearts of women around the world. No wonder, because it’s the fastest way to get a tan, and also the healthiest! You don’t have to expose your skin to the sun or UV lamps
There are a few simple steps you need to follow to make your self-tan look good.
If you’re in the habit of applying self-tanner without pre-tanning, you’ve made a big mistake and the results have been spotty, streaky and short-lived. When applying this type of cosmetic, we want the effect to last quite a long time (a few days, up to a week). That is why it is important to clean the skin as thoroughly as possible while taking a bath, shave your legs and, most importantly, perform body scrub – this will remove dead skin
It’s important to make sure your skin is as smooth as possible before applying self-tanner. Remember not to spread any oily oils or ointments on your body before applying the product. This will prevent it from running off and pooling in certain areas. It will be a good idea to use a moisturizing lotion before self-tanner
Face – if you decide to apply the product on your face as well, make sure first that it is designed for that. Otherwise, you might clog your pores or cause irritation. When applying to your face, start from your cheeks and work your way up to your forehead, chin and neck. Don’t forget about your ears and hairline to avoid the mask effect! When applying self-tanner to the face, it’s best to use your hands, as you would with a foundation, to ensure the most even result. Then wash your hands quickly.
Body – in this case, a glove will be your ally. Ever tried to get a beautiful result from a self-tanner and been left with dark patches on your hands?
Start applying self-tanner from your feet and work your way up to your upper body. Don’t overdo it, it’s better to apply in layers and gradually build up the tan, rather than overdo it. Remember that self-tanner is a product that oxidizes with time, so the final color will be visible only after some time. When you reach your belly, use circular motions. For arms, legs and décolletage, use horizontal strokes. Areas such as elbows, knees and feet only need a light dusting of self-tanner, as it tends to accumulate in these areas and you don’t want dark spots
The most important tip for applying self-tanner evenly without streaks or unsightly spots is to never hold the product in one place for long. You need to be efficient, and it’s best to spread the product on a glove first and then work it into your skin.
Moisturizing is key here. Although you shouldn’t use lotion for the first few days after applying the product, later on it’s a must if you want to prolong the effect. You can use self-tanning products, but a regular moisturizing body butter will work just as well
If you notice that your self-tanner is slowly coming off, and you’re experiencing discoloration and lighter spots on your body, go back to exfoliating to get rid of the rest of the product
