The dos and don’ts of fake tanning

In winter, sunless tanning is a true lifesaver. Perfect for when you want to look great for an event, a tan can help you feel healthy, bronzed, and glowy no matter the weather and time of year. However, if you’re a fake tanner, you’ll be well familiar with the downsides of sunless tanning. Depending on how you apply fake tan, you may be left with patchiness, streaks, and orange-y hues. Not ideal. Here are some tips on ensuring your fake tan goes on flawlessly and leaves you looking gorgeous.

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Do:

Exfoliate and remove old fake tan

Prep your skin properly by exfoliating in the shower before you plan to apply your fake tan. This will not only ensure your tan will apply smoothly and won’t cling to any dry patches, but will also help make your tan last longer. Make sure to focus on areas prone to dryness, like elbows and knees.

Choose the right shade for you

Many people make the mistake of going too dark with their self-tanner. Start with a light application of a colour that is only a few shades darker than your natural skin tone. It’s easier to apply another layer if you need to, than it is to remove it. Try a few options out first on a small area of your body if you’re not sure which shade will suit you.

Moisturise before and after

Moisturising 30 minutes before applying your tan will give it enough time to sink in and help create a smooth base for your tan. Keep moisturising every day to help your tan last longer and keep looking natural and even.

Shower when it’s ready

Once you’ve applied your tan (unless you’ve chosen to use a gradual tanning moisturiser), make sure to shower when you’re ready to step out. This will help remove any excess and make it look more natural. It will also prevent the tan rubbing off on your clothes.

Don’t:

Get your skin wet right after application

After you’ve applied fake tan you should avoid getting it wet. This can remove it and cause it to look uneven. Skip your trip to the pool, wear loose clothing to avoid sweating, and shower when it’s ready (check the bottle to find out).

Skip UV protection

Fake tan doesn’t contain UV protection so you’ll need to keep applying sun cream as usual! Nothing ruins a bronzed glow like irritated, sun-damaged skin.

Shave immediately before applying

Shaving right before putting on your tan can increase the risk of it becoming streaky as razors can leave a film on your skin, making it harder for the product to stick to your skin.

Wear nice clothes

When it’s developing, fake tan can rub off on your clothing and anything else that comes into contact with your skin. Wear baggy, old clothes that you don’t mind staining after you’ve applied your tan.

Go overboard on your face

Applying too much fake tan to your face can end up looking unnatural. Go for the less is more approach with your face and apply a thinner layer than you would with your body.