You will never disagree with me when I say a glowing tan is what makes most of us happy. But how many of us have enough time to get rid of the pale skin and get that confidence boosting tan?
Not, all of us!
Self-tanning is the best way to get a tan if you fall into this category. Unlike the sun tanning and tanning beds, it is very safe too.
But the problem with self-tanners is that you might go wrong at any moment and end up with a steaky orange color.
Let me tell you these issues will never happen if you know the expert self tanning tips.
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How to Self Tan: The Tips
I am very sure that if you follow these simple tips and tricks, you will definitely get the golden glow right.
Here is how to achieve that flawless tan at home from sunless tanners.
1. Get Your Workout Out of the Way
Before you plan your workout post the tanning session, read this out!
Unlike the other methods, self-tanning may not be as long-lasting. Once you sweat, your tan may be splotchy, causing it to fade unevenly.
Sweating may even lead to the product staining your clothes. To save yourself the embarrassment, get the workout out of the way.
It’s best to work out a day before the tan. Let your sweat dry before proceeding with the application.
Once the tan develops, avoid any exercise for the first couple of days. If you must exercise, apply talcum powder beforehand to prevent staining.
2. Skin Preparation
We simply cannot emphasize enough on how important skin preparation is.
Skin prep is an integral part of tanning. It could even make or break your tanned look.
Got any unwanted hair growing? Now is the time to shave or wax.
Along with that, another major step is exfoliation. It is necessary to get rid of any dead skin before self-tanning. The exfoliation will leave you with baby-like, soft skin.
Without exfoliation, the tan may fade with the shedding of the dead skin.
Another great benefit of skin prep is that it maintains the tan. That bronzed look may last you a couple more days than usual.
Most self-tanners also come with exfoliator gloves that you could use for this.
3. Lock In The Moisture
To ensure a smoother finish and a long-lasting tan, remember to moisturize. A lot of the high-end products come with natural and hydrating ingredients.
Reconsider the self-tanner if it doesn’t serve the purpose of a moisturizer. Or, use an oil-free lotion along with it. This will keep your skin feeling soft, helping you get even coverage.
Some key areas to moisturize are the elbows, knuckles, and the knees. Since these areas can be dry and flaky, locking in the moisture is important.
A lot of self-tanners also have a drying formula. This can make your skin appear dehydrated. Applying a good lotion can also save you from turning orange in these places.
4. Pick the Right Product
How would you even get started without this, right? For an effective tan and naturalistic results, finding a good product is integral.
Here are some important specifications that a high-quality self-tanner must include:
- Does it come with an applicator mitt?
- Is it paraben- and chemical-free?
- How long does it last?
- How much time does it take to develop fully?
Another key feature is the consistency of the product.
Self-tanners come as a mousse, spray and even lotion. The mousse can be easy-to-spread and saves you from creating a mess. Whereas, sprays can help spread product to areas out of reach.
However, one drawback to using a spray is that it may be messy. For a newbie, we recommend the mousse or lotion as it’s hassle-free.
Tanning Girl’s Best Pick?
Instant Ultra Dark tan lotion from Sun Laboratories (check price on Amazon) is our top pick when it comes to best self tanners. It’s an amazing fake tan that offers streak-free tanning.
It is formulated from a natural blend of ingredients and guarantees a perfect finish. The instant and quick drying action of Ultra Dark tan lotion make it the favorite of models and celebrities too.
5. Stock on All the Tools
Invest in a high-quality tanner that comes with an applicator. Preferably a mitt as it helps even out the tint. You’ll be able to get a dreamy tan at the comfort of your home.
Getting a mitt is important as it saves your hands from staining.
Along with the mitt, another important tool is the back applicator. If you are fond of wearing backless outfits, this one’s necessary.
It’s often difficult to reach the back to rub in the product. A back applicator helps you reach all areas, giving you a neat application.
You can read more about applying fake tans to the backside of your body here: How to self tan Your Back
6. Patch Test
We bet you have heard this one before. Like all brands, we, too, would recommend a patch test. This is important to identify if the tint works for your undertones.
Each product varies for each skin type. One that has the right coverage is the one to go for.
7. Go One at a Time
Most tanning professionals recommend going in one at a time. This helps you perfect each part of your body before moving ahead.
Typically, the best way is to start with one leg. With a light hand, rub the product in circular motions. Then, work your way up to the arms in a similar fashion.
This is also important to avoid streaks and weird marks. Concentrating on each area guarantees a flawless look.
8. Apply it on the Face
Not all self-tanners are to be applied on the face. Choose one that is safe to apply and gives the right results.
Go easy on the application, building on the color gradually. Since the face is the most important area, getting the color right is vital.
9. Apply in All the Right Areas
Don’t forget to apply the product under the knees and between toes. For a naturalistic appearance, this one’s quite important.
Put on your favorite dress and flaunt that golden glow!
10. Wash Off the Stains
How many times have you dealt with stained fingernails? Rubbing off the product with bare hands can sure get messy. If you have invested in a mitt, you can skip this part.
Here is what you can do:
- A makeup wipe can help remove the excess product.
- Use an exfoliator on the palms to rub off the residue tint.
- If nothing else works, use toothpaste to remove stains between fingers.
- Apply a mild lotion on the base.
- Use a Q tip swab to remove the stain off the nails.
- You may also use nail polish remover on the hands and nails.
- And last, as mentioned earlier avoid it altogether by using an applicator.
11. Allow It to Dry
Once applied, allow the sunless tanner to dry off completely. Leave the product on overnight to dry and develop fully.
Slip on a loose robe once the lotion or spray mist has dried off. Else, the product could transfer on and stain clothing and sheets. You could also invest in a quick-drying formula to fasten up the process.
Another way to dry it is to set up a portable fan by your bedside.
12. Shower It off
Each product works differently and has its own specifications. Wait at least 6 hours before showering or simply follow the pack’s instructions.
This is important because the water could leave behind ugly marks. These water streaks are impossible to conceal. This can be prevented by allowing the product to dry completely.
Lastly, shower using a gentle cleanser to get rid of the residue.
13. Set It with Powder
A self-tanner needs a setting powder just like your makeup. Since sweating increases the likelihood of splotchy marks, you’re required to stay dry.
Applying powder keeps you dry and saves it from washing off. The powder can also help discourage the orange tint.
A light-colored dress over a fresh tan could easily get stained. Using some talcum powder will prevent transfer.
14. Adjust the Color
Sometimes even after all precautions, the color just won’t set right. It’s easier if the color turns out light, you can re-apply. But, what if it turns out too dark?
Don’t worry! All you need is to soak in a bathtub. Once the color turns a muddy shade, get out and dry yourself.
15. Tan Preservation
Once the tan has been applied, it needs preservation. This varies based on each product and its instructions.
Preferably, go light on the exfoliation. Avoid using acne treatments and heavy creams or lotions. You may touch-upon faded areas to revive the bronze look.
What if your self-tan goes wrong? Huffington post says you can use milk or ice to remove the fake tan from your face and body.
16. How often to apply self-tanner
Most people believe that self-tanners are not to be applied frequently. Fortunately, modern-age products come with a blend of natural ingredients.
This makes them safe to use and also fuss-free. Bonus points if yours is an organic tanner!
Buildable formulae are safe to use every day.
Getting the color right to suit everyone’s preference is difficult. To make it easier, the buildable formula allows you to customize the darkness. This provides the user with control to choose the desired intensity.
However, alternatively, you could use a gradual tanning lotion every other day. Use the gap to review the results. Reapply the next day if you require more of the product
The reapplication can help the tan look naturalistic and fresh. You could also touch upon places where the color has faded. Apply tiny blobs of the tanning lotion to darken a washed-off tan.
While a frequent application is allowed, take precautionary measures to minimize risks. Allow your skin to breathe every once a while. Go tan-free, preparing your skin for the next session.
During this time focus on skincare and moisturize the skin regularly.
This is particularly important if you are using chemical self-tanners. Alternatively, try out washable body makeup which could serve the same purpose.
Limit the tan to fewer applications, applying it when absolutely necessary. By doing this you will protect your skin against damage. However, if you love a consistent bronze glow, you may apply it frequently.
All Set for Applying Sunless Tanner?
For a year-long glow, use a high-quality product that is effective. Longer lasting results mean fewer applications. This can save you the time and effort of constant reapplications.
Get glowing away with a natural-looking faux tan with these easy tips. We bet you won’t be looking back to your spray tan appointments anymore!
Before we sign off, if you’re a man, you can find men’s self-tanners here.
