othing says you've embraced summer like a sun-kissed glow, and we've got all the best DIY self-tanning tips to achieve it. Going the tan-from-a-tube route may even help protect you from sun damage, recent research shows: Beachgoers educated in self-tan techniques and the dangers of UV rays were less likely to sit in the sun without protection and experienced fewer sunburns over the course of the summer than their nontrained fellow loungers. (It's not that self-tanners contain SPF — most don't; rather, bronzing safely can change your sunbathing habits.) Read on for the pros' product picks and techniques for believable color (no orange tans here).
Prep Skin
1. Test it out "Self-tanners rely on the ingredient dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, a potential irritant," says Sinead Norenius, founder of faux-glow maker Beautisol. "Over the years, I've found that roughly one in 10 people can't tolerate it. The day before you self-tan for the first time, test a silver dollar-size area on the inside of your arm or inner thigh." But if you do get a rash, try another formulation before you pass on self-tanner.
2. Get your timing right Wax at least 24 hours in advance; the same goes for any other kind of hair removal that tears hair out of the follicle — like threading or tweezing. "Otherwise, the follicles may still be open, and self-tanner can pool in them, creating tiny dark spots," explains Norenius. Also, rubbing DHA on sensitized skin ups the odds of irritation.
3. Slough off old skin first To turn you golden, DHA reacts with the proteins in the very outer layer of your skin. Any patches of old, dead skin will absorb more self-tanner, which can lead to spots and streaks. For an even start, dry-brush before your shower. Try EcoTools Bamboo Bristle Bath Brush ($6, drugstores). Or, use an exfoliating mitt with an oil-free body wash, advises Norenius. If you prefer to use a body scrub, choose one formulated for use with self-tanners, like Beautisol Go Slough Yourself ($19, beautisol.com); ordinary body scrubs generally contain hydrating oils that will impede the penetration of DHA.
4. Be bare When you get out of the shower, you may instinctively reach for a deodorant or an antiperspirant. Stop right there. "If the lotion or spray hits your deodorant, your skin can turn a funny green-gray color," cautions Norenius. It's best if self-tanner goes on dry skin that's freshly cleaned and exfoliated, so don't rub on any essential oils, spritz on perfume, or apply body lotion, either.
It can never hurt to have some helpful tanning tips, no matter what your preferred method of tanning might be. Remember, safety comes first folks, so don't overlook your health in lieu of a great tan. Use these tips to get that perfect one with self tanners and indoor tanning beds, safely.
Don't forget, we make an awesome app for tanning that can help, too.
Self tanning lotion is a great way to enhance the tan that you are getting on the tanning bed.
Some tips to applying a self tanner:
Always wear eye protection. Simply closing your eyes or wearing outdoor sunglasses while you tan is not adequate protection against long term eye injury.
The best tan occurs on clean, moisturized skin. To get the most color, use a moisturizing, color enhanced indoor tanning lotion. Apply the lotion to the entire body including the back of your arms and legs, under your chin, and up the sides of your torso.
Protect your lips. They burn easily, so use a lip balm with sunscreen.
Cover previously unexposed areas for the majority of your tanning session for the first few sessions. Gradually increase exposure to these areas to avoid burns.
Do not lay still. Move around some to make sure your tan covers every curve. Lie with your arms raised above your head and your knees slightly bent.
Keep your skin moisturized. Your skin can become very dry from the heat and light, so moisturize before and after each session.
You need to tan on a constant basis to build a base tan. It generally takes 6-8 sessions.
Don't forget, we make an awesome app for tanning that can help, too.
Self Tanners
The new self tanners are improved and do not leave you looking like an orange alien, but give you a beautiful bronze color.Self tanning lotion is a great way to enhance the tan that you are getting on the tanning bed.
Some tips to applying a self tanner:
- Exfoliate and shower prior to applying the lotion.
- Moisturize trouble spots (knees, elbows, feet, and hands) before applying.
- Use gloves or wash hands every five minutes to keep the lotion from staining your hands during application.
- Apply in a small circular motion. Some people recommend using a small triangular sponge or a sponge paint brush to help blend the areas at the ankles and hands.
- Use as little as possible around your feet. Spread the tanner from your legs to your ankles and the tops of your feet.
- Apply lightly on your face and neck. Don’t forget behind your ears and the back of your neck.
- Take an old hand towel and towel off to smooth out any leftover residue.
- After you are done, apply a regular body lotion to the tops of your feet, blend into the ankle, sides of feet, and toes. Apply a small amount to your knees and elbows. Use a larger amount on your hands and blend into the wrists. Rub your belly button with a cotton swab with a bit of lotion.
- Take a damp wash cloth and wipe your underarms; most people do not have tanned underarms.
Indoor Tanning Beds
Tanning beds are a great way to keep a glow all year long with a controlled dose of UVB and UVA light with predictable results in complete privacy. Tanning beds do have risks as well as benefits. You can get a sunburn. Many people believe that if they do not experience a slight red or pink after they tan, that they did not “get anything.” The truth is that the red or pink is actually a sunburn: your skin’s own worst enemy. Tanning beds should never be used with the same techniques or products as outdoor tanning.Always wear eye protection. Simply closing your eyes or wearing outdoor sunglasses while you tan is not adequate protection against long term eye injury.
The best tan occurs on clean, moisturized skin. To get the most color, use a moisturizing, color enhanced indoor tanning lotion. Apply the lotion to the entire body including the back of your arms and legs, under your chin, and up the sides of your torso.
Protect your lips. They burn easily, so use a lip balm with sunscreen.
Cover previously unexposed areas for the majority of your tanning session for the first few sessions. Gradually increase exposure to these areas to avoid burns.
Do not lay still. Move around some to make sure your tan covers every curve. Lie with your arms raised above your head and your knees slightly bent.
Keep your skin moisturized. Your skin can become very dry from the heat and light, so moisturize before and after each session.
You need to tan on a constant basis to build a base tan. It generally takes 6-8 sessions.
