Whether it’s the summer and you want to get a base tan before heading to the beach or it’s the winter and you want a healthy glow, you need to know how to apply self-tanning lotion. Read on for must-know tips to get sun-kissed skin by the weekend:
1. Exfoliate your skin in order to get the most even tan possible. Scrub your entire body, from top to bottom. If you don’t exfoliate first, you’ll end up getting blotches here and there as well as uneven tanning results. If you have any especially dry spots, like your knees or your elbows, give special attention to those areas.
2. Moisturize a few areas before applying the tanning lotion. Your elbows and knees will get dark quickly, so you’ll want to mix the tanner with regular moisturizer for these areas. Also, rub an oil-free moisturizer into your hands and feet. The skin there is thicker and dryer, so the tan will develop quickly in those areas. Lotion will smooth out dark patches. “If you have light hair, like blonde or gray, add some lotion to your hairline, too – this will prevent your hair from getting brassy,” said Tanning Lotion Source.
3. Tan palms are a dead giveaway that you used self-tanner. Use a mitt to prevent this problem. It will also protect your nails from getting yellowed from the tanner. When you’re finished using the mitt, toss it in the washing machine or wash it out using dish soap.
4. Use broad strokes to apply the tanning lotion. Wipe in every direction with uniform swipes. Make sure that there aren’t any areas of buildup lotion – if there are, your skin won’t absorb the tanner properly. You could also get an uneven tan if the lotion isn’t applied evenly.
5. Don’t choose a self-tanner based on the result you want. Instead, look for a tanner that’s right for your skin tone. If you have fair skin, look for a light or medium formula. If you have olive skin, look for a dark formula.
6. When choosing a self-tanner, you have several options in terms of application. There are mousses, which are a cinch to rub in, and sprays, which are ideal for those hard-to-reach areas. The type you choose will depend on preference, results and how easy the application process is for you.
If you’re just starting out with self-tanner, start slowly. You may have to try a few brands before settling on one that gives you the color you desire. Also, don’t use too much at once. It’s better to slowly build your tan up with a few applications than apply a ton at once and unexpectedly turn bright orange.
Sources:
http://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/advice/a2569/Fake-A-Great-Tan/
http://www.allure.com/skin-care/2013/10-commandments-of-self-tanner#slide=1
