Thanks for the recommendations. I've tried Jergens and like it. This comment has been removed.
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How to Use Self-Tanner
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How to Use Self-Tanner
Tips and tricks for using self-tanner
Summertime is upon us, which means it’s time to show more skin! Typically, hotter weather equals tank tops, shorts, bathing suits, and skirts. Starting your summer tan is easier and safer then ever before! Get the sun-kissed glow you’ve always wanted (without the worry) with the only safe way to tan: self-tanner. With today’s technology, and with the right products, old worries for self-tanning, like orange, uneven, or blotchy skin, are gone. Use these tricks of the trade to get a perfect, natural-looking tan, and maintain it for months to come.
Step 1: Exfoliate
One of the most important steps in prepping for your tan is exfoliating properly. Make sure to shower a few hours before you plan on using self-tanner. Use a soap or body scrub such as Decléor Fruit Seeds Body Scrub with a loofah to exfoliate every inch of your skin. This step is crucial for achieving an even, long-lasting tan. Another great tool for exfoliating is a new product called LeeDee, which will remove dead skin cells and really ensure your entire body is smooth and ready to tan.
Step 2: Self-Tanning Product vs. Spray Tan
Tanning products come in all different forms from mousse to sprays, lotions, gels, and more. These products contain DHA, or dihydroxyacetone—the active ingredient that changes the color of the topical layer of the skin. When using a mousse or lotion, it is important to pay attention to where you are placing the product. You will need a completely even layer of the product on your body. Remember to avoid putting the product directly on ankles, elbows, knees, hands and feet, as the dye is absorbed at higher levels in these areas. These products have a lower DHA percentage than others, but are great for maintaining color or getting a couple of shades darker. Some have additional bronzers in them, which are great for instant color while you wait for the self-tan to fully darken.Lotions are usually clear and will develop within six to eight hours. Be sure to wash/scrub your hands immediately after application, as orange palms will be a tell-tale sign of your self-tanning secret.
A few recommendations:
• St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse (great for instant color and starting out your summer tan)
• Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel
• Jergens Natural Glow Firming Daily Moisturizer
Sprays and solutions are a little more challenging to use, but have great results! The percentage of DHA used in a solution or spray is higher, giving you a darker and longer lasting tan. These products are best used with the help of a professional; however, with the right tools they can be used at home. Sprays and solutions can also be sticky and harder to blend, so be sure to have access to water and paper towels (for blending) to avoid a blotchy look. Search local spray tanning services in your area and ask about the solution they use.
These are two of the best:
• Fake Bake Flawless Self-Tanning Liquid
• Million Dollar Tan - Tan Icon Sunless Tanning Spray (great for all skin types)
Step 3: Moisturizing and Maintaining
Now that you have a nice, golden, natural-looking tan, it’s important to maintain it. Using a body lotion to keep the skin hydrated will help your tan last longer, and will also serve to minimize splotching. After you’ve reached your desired color, use a tanning lotion once every two to three days to preserve your golden hue. If your tan is not exfoliating properly, use a damp towel after showering to rub the area in question, until the tan is even again.Recommended products:
• Nars Laguna Body Illuminator- Golden Bronzer (deposits more color without transferring and will wash off once you take your first shower)
• Crabtree and Evelyn Avocado, Olive & Basil Skin Nourishing Body Butter (to hydrate the skin)
• Fake Bake Golden Faux Glo - Shimmer (a bronzer that will wash off in the shower)
Now that you know how to get a safe, natural-looking tan, you’re ready to start off this summer looking your best!
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