10 Must Know Tips for Tanning, flawless, natural-looking bronzed skin.
1. Exfoliating is Mandatory
For the most even, natural-looking tan, prep skin with a gentle exfoliation beforehand. Scrubbing away dead skin cells will help to reduce the risk of a patchy application.
2. Wax or Shave a Day Before
Applying tanner on irritated skin just isn’t a good idea. To avoid a reaction, wait 12 hours for shaving and 24 hours for waxing before applying your product.
3. Moisturize
Dry skin means cracks and crevasses for the tanner to sink in to. After exfoliation, lather up with body moisturizer paying special attention to the hands, elbows, knees and heels. Applying lotion beforehand will help to create an even canvas for a natural-looking finish.
4. Avoid Oil-Based Products Pre-Tan
This goes for both your moisturizer and your body scrub. Oil can create a barrier between your skin and the product, which will lead to streaking.
5. Buff the Color Down
If you notice one area developing too dark, simply take a towel and buff off the excess to slow down the absorption.
6. Intimidated by Fake Tanning?
If you’re a first timer, mix your self-tanner with a body lotion. It will dilute the color and spread across your body easier for a scare-free, flawless tan. As you become more comfortable tanning at-home, adjust the ratio as preferred.
7. Wear Gloves!
A tale-tell sign that you’ve been fake ‘n’ baking is orange palms. Wear latex gloves during application. After you’re done with the rest of your body, massage a mix of tanner and lotion into the back of your hands for natural-looking paws.
8. Wear Loose, Dark Clothes
Your tan needs time to develop. Avoid staining your clothes by opting for loose, dark-colored clothing while the color processes.
9. Stay Away From Water
Do not shower, bathe, swim or sweat for at least eight hours after you’ve applied the color. Water will stop the tanner from processing. Usually, the longer you allow the product to develop, the darker it will be.
On the same token, if you absolutely butchered the application process, soak in warm bath for 20 minutes and exfoliate to remove the color.
10. Fade Evenly
Keeping your tan in tip top shape is all about moisturizing. After about three days, exfoliate away dead skin to help the tan fade evenly. If you’re wishing to go darker, now is also a good time for a second application.
Happy tanning!
