Self-tanning is an excellent alternative to sunbathing and lasts longer too. However, you must know how to best apply the self-tanning product, so you don’t leave some areas of the skin uncovered or have streaks running all over your body. Most sunless tanning products come in form of lotions and spray, so applying isn’t as challenging but has to be done carefully. Here are the basics of applying sunless tanning:
- Using a washcloth, exfoliate your skin before you apply any self-tanner. If you can use an exfoliating product, it’s much better as it helps remove most of the dead skin cells. Make sure to exfoliate from head to toe. This prevents your tan from fading unevenly and looking splotchy. Oil-free exfoliators are best as oil creates a barrier between the skin and the tanning product leaving it streaky. Concentrate more on exfoliating the elbows, ankles and knees as this is where the skin is thickest.
- Apply lotion. After taking a shower and thorough exfoliation, apply oil and fragrance-free cream on your hands from the wrist to the fingertips, on your elbow and knees as well as the back of your heels. These are the areas with thick and dry skin, and if you apply the self-tanner before applying lotion, the skin on these areas absorb more pigment as compared to other parts of the body which causes unevenness.
- Apply in sections. To get the best results (even and unstreak tan) apply the tanning product in parts. Gently massage the product into the skin and in a circular motion. Apply the tanner to your different body sections such as the arms, the legs, and torso. Avoid applying the self-tanner as if you are applying body lotion. To avoid discoloring your arms or having orange arms, wash your hands using a lot of soap after applying in every section.
- Dry yourself. While applying self-tanner, do it in a cool and dry place. After using the self-tanner, give your skin some time to dry off. Wait for at least ten minutes before you get dressed. Wear loose clothing for the next three hours or so to avoid sweating.
After applying the self-tanner, it’s good to apply sunscreen every day. The self-tanner doesn’t protect your skin the same as the sunscreen. Make sure the sunscreen is water-resistant and offers broad-spectrum protection.
For the best results it is recommended to hire a sunless tanning company. A sunless tanning company will make the tan more even and will last loner.