Even though summer is slowly waving goodbye to us, a lot of us are still looking for ways to maintain our summer tan. And what better way is there to do that than with the help of self tanner? It doesn’t expose our skin to sun damage, it’s fast, and it’s inexpensive. However, the art of sunless tanning can be a difficult one to master. Luckily, that’s where we come in. So, let us share with you our favorite tips and tricks for an easy self tan.
Pre-Tan Preparation
Having an even and lasting tan beyond the application process. Pre-tan preparation is just as important, if not even more important, than the application process of your sunless tanner. Prepped skin will not only make your tan last longer, but it will also give your skin a gorgeous glow. Here, the spotlight shines on exfoliation – a gentle, yet transformative process that creates a smooth canvas for your self-tanner. By shedding dead skin cells, you pave the way for an even application that clings to your skin evenly. This preparatory ritual is particularly important for areas that tend to absorb more product, such as elbows, knees, and ankles.
The Art of Application
A good self tanner application requires both precision and patience. The easiest way to achieve that is with the help of a self tan mitt. Begin with a modest amount of self-tanner, using circular motions to work it into your skin. The mantra here is slow and steady – it’s easier to add more later than to correct excessive application. Take special care when tending to areas like your face, where blending around the hairline and eyebrows is an art in itself. Once the tanning is complete, make sure to wash your hands as soon as possible, in order to prevent the dreaded “orange palms” scenario.
Maintaining a Tan
Preserving your tan requires vigilance when it comes to the products you choose and the water temperature you expose your skin to. Harsh soaps and exfoliating agents can expedite the fading process, so opt for gentle, sulfate-free alternatives that treat your skin with care. Similarly, even though a steaming hot shower can be tempting, it will only make your tan fade faster. Stick to lukewarm water instead.
Is your tan still fading? Maybe even unevenly? Don’t worry. This is where post-tan touch-ups enter the stage. Should you notice areas where your tan is bidding adieu unevenly, fret not – you have the power to mend it. A dab of self-tanner on a cotton pad can revive those fading sections. The key is to blend gently, ensuring a seamless transition between your existing tan and the touch-up.
The Eternal Cycle
The journey of sustaining your tan is a never ending one. As your tan slowly fades, you’ll find yourself preparing for a fresh application. Yet, this process begins before you lay down the first drop of self-tanner. Return to the pre-tan preparation – the exfoliation, the moisturization – to ready your canvas for a new chapter of radiance. In this way, your fresh tan emerges seamlessly, maintaining the cycle of a bronzy glow.
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