Photo Credit: US Magazine
A healthy glow makes you look extra fit on the dance floor. But it’s not worth ruining your skin by baking under the sun for hours. You can get the same healthy, golden glow with a fake tan.
There are loads of self-tanning products out there, and most of the formulas are lightweight and easy to apply. But if you’re new to self-tanning and you want to avoid a streaky application, here are some tips to help you out:
10 Tips for a Flawless Fake Tan
Exfoliate First
Never apply a fake tan on your skin without buffing away the dry, flaky skin first! Exfoliating the skin helps achieve an even color, especially in areas where the skin folds, such as the elbow and knees! These areas are prone to dryness, and if you don’t buff the skin away, they’ll look extra dry with the dark or uneven color. Avoid using exfoliating products with an oil base because this could cause the skin to absorb the tanning formula.
Shave!
Photo Credit: Rapid Leaks
If you shave regularly, do it before applying the self-tanner. Apart from achieving an even finish, the product also glides smoothly all over. It makes the color look fresher for longer too. You don’t have to shave if you’re not into it.
Shaving unwanted hair makes the self-tanner applies smoothly. It makes the color last for a long time too. Also, it lifts dead skin cells, minimizing patchiness as you apply the tint.
Wet or Dry Skin?
Photo Credit: Loreal Paris
Some fake bake products are okay to apply on wet and dry skin. Just to be sure you’re using the product properly, check the instruction. Err to the side of caution and apply the fake tan on dry skin. The skin has to be 100% dry if you’re using a regular formula. If you’re applying the product after a shower, give yourself at least 15 minutes to dry the skin off. Don’t apply right away because the skin could still be damp, and you’d end up with streaky results.
Retouch on Faded Areas
Photo Credit: Pinterest
Color tends to fade in some areas of the skin, particularly the hands and feet. The color fades faster in these areas because we use our hands and feet a lot. It takes about four days or so before the tint fades. You have to reapply as often as needed, so the color remains even.
Use the Tanning Mitt
Photo Credit: Amazon
For most of us, we use our hands to apply the spray tan all over. That’s fine but if you want to achieve better results, use the tanning mitt. It’s the secret to achieving super refined color all over. The mitt applies the color evenly while also polishing the skin for a seamless finish. Also, it protects the hands from going orange after applying the fake tan. It’s a must, so invest in a tanning mitt.
Keep Skin Moisturized
Photo Credit: Chicago Tribune
Tanning is the best time to moisturize the skin, particularly the dry spots like the elbows, knees, and feet. You want the tint to apply smoothly and evenly on these areas, so it’s a good idea to work a hydrating body lotion all over. Be sure that the skin has absorbed the lotion before hitting the self-tanner.
Use a Tan-Safe Moisturizer
Photo Credit: Today
Not all face and body moisturizers are created equally; some are more tan-friendly than others. To keep your tan fresh looking for longer, use a tan-safe moisturizer. Apply on the skin as soon as the tan dries completely post-application.
Blend the Tanner on the Hands and Feet
It’s a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how often people forget that the hands and feet need color too! Get some of the leftover products and blend them all over the hands and feet. Remove the excess tanner on the palm, under the nail, and the soles of the feet with a cleaning wipe, and you’re done.
Layer the Color Carefully on the Face
Photo Credit: Artesian Tan
You don’t want to look like an Oompa Loompa with a deep orange face! The color between your face and the rest of your body doesn’t have to be identical, go light on face application. Apply the tanner in thin layers, letting the color develop slightly just to check if you should add more. Never apply the tanner in thick layers because you will get blotchy and deeper than expected results.
Avoid Streaks!
A streaky application is often caused by using too little of the tanner. You need to apply the right amount to cover the skin evenly. Shoot for about a tablespoon of the tanning product at a time, working the product on the skin in a circular motion for an even application.
How To Apply Self Tanner Like A Pro
Self Tanning Hacks: Tips and Tricks
How to Self Tan Tricky Areas (Hands, Feet, Elbows & Knees)
Guide to Face Self Tanning: How to Apply Self Tanner on Face
5 Self Tanners Dancers Recommend
Coola Organic Sunless Tan Luminizing Body Serum
A sheer and buildable tanning lotion that provides a natural finish. It’s very easy to use and almost fool-proof, perfect for those who are new to self-tanning. The formula has subtle shimmers that give the skin a sunkissed glow.
Jergens SOL Sunless Tanning Water Mousse
A foamy self-tanner that’s buildable and long-lasting. You will love the streak-free application. It’s easy to use too! The SOL sunless tanning water mousse happens to be very affordable. You can buy backup bottles so you can maintain your bronzy tan for months on end!
Sun Labs Overnight Self-Tanning Lotion
Sun Labs have a wide selection of self-tanning products, but the Overnight Self-tanning lotion is the longest-lasting. This product is made from all-natural ingredients. It hydrates the skin, blends like a dream, and the tint looks freshly applied for days!
Tanceuticals Self-Tanner Lotion
Featuring an exclusive formula, the Tanceuticals apply easily, and the results are always smooth, streak-free, and natural-looking. It has a refreshing scent, so every application feels like a beach trip! The best part? The tint lasts for at least a week!
