Top Ten Tips for a Sunless Summer Glow
Imagine effortlessly rocking a sun-kissed glow that turns heads wherever you go. Self-tanning, or sunless tanning has become increasingly popular as we seek safer alternatives to sunbathing, which can lead to harmful effects like skin aging, sunburn, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Self-tanning products come in various forms, including lotions, creams, sprays, mousses, and wipes. They contain a chemical called dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts with the amino acids in the outer layer of the skin to produce a temporary browning effect.
Here are some tips and best practices for achieving a natural-looking self-tan:
- Exfoliate: Before applying any self-tanner, it’s essential to exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells. This creates a smooth surface for the tanner to adhere to and helps prevent uneven application.
- Moisturize Dry Areas: Pay extra attention to areas prone to dryness, such as knees, elbows, ankles, and heels. Applying a light layer of moisturizer to these areas can help prevent excessive tanning and uneven results.
- Apply Evenly: When applying the self-tanner, work in small sections and use smooth, even strokes. Be cautious around joints and creases to avoid an uneven appearance.
- Use a Tanning Mitt or Brush: To prevent stained hands and have an even application use a tanning mitt or brush for your application. This will help blend the product evenly and keep your hands clean.
- Start Lightly: If you’re new to self-tanning or have fair skin, start with a gradual self-tanning product or choose a lighter shade. You can always build up the color over time if needed.
- Allow Drying Time: After applying the self-tanner, allow it to dry completely before dressing to avoid streaks or smudges. That means running around your house naked for about a half hour while you do dishes or laundry.
- Avoid Water Contact: Avoid swimming, sweating, hot tubs or getting wet for a few hours after application. Water can interfere with the development of the tan.
- Maintain Your Tan: To prolong your self-tan, moisturize your skin regularly. Some self-tanners also offer products specifically designed to extend the life of your tan.
- Patch Test: Before using any self-tanning product for the first time, it’s a good idea to perform a patch test on a small area of the skin to check for any potential allergic reactions.
- Be Patient: The color of your self-tan will develop gradually over several hours. Don’t panic if you don’t see immediate results; give it time to fully develop. If you have already achieved the shade you like then you can hop in the shower but not before.
Remember that self-tanning products offer a temporary tan and will gradually fade as your skin naturally exfoliates. If you wish to maintain your tan, you’ll need to reapply the product regularly.