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The Best Way To Fake It: Tips for A Flawless Tan Application That Lasts
It is that time of the year, we all want that lovely sun kissed glow, but with all the information about Sun Damage and Skin Cancer, why would you put your body at risk? Follow my 3 Step Guide to Faking it.
Step 1: Pre-Tan, Skin Preparation
Before visiting a professional Tanning Specialist or before you apply your own "do it yourself" at home. Ensure you do the following:
- Ensure any hair removal takes place at least 24 hours to tanning as we do not want the spotty application that can result from tan grabbing on to any open pores.
- For an all over even skin tone and to slough off dead skin cells it is a 100% essential to exfoliate the entire body before applying the tan. Use a loofah or hand mitts to apply a body scrub with sugary granules to help remove dead cells.
- Ensure you do not moisturise prior to the tan application as this acts as a barrier to the solution. The aim is for the tan to soak easily into the skin for a lasting longing tan.
- Finally, do not use any deodorant prior to the tan application, as this may effect the colour of the tan. It is best is to apply at least a couple of hours after the tan application.
Step 2: Apply your Tan
Visit a qualified Tanning Specialist or purchase a reputable Self Tan from your Department Store.
If you are doing it yourself, pay special attention to contouring and high lighting. Contouring the body is a must.
For my clients, once I’ve applied the right amount of solution, I add special touches particularly around the waist and lateral calf muscle to lateral thigh for that extra wow.
Depending on your skin condition, you may want to apply extra solution under the knees as often the knee can shadow the shins. Another area to watch is under the elbow to the wrist as this can take a few more applications of tanning solution due to the fact this area drier due to exposure to everyday sun.
Finally, everyone’s skin tone varies, so for the darker skin tones you want to lightly mist the tan. For more milky white skin tones, you may need several light applications or the tan, however, ensure you dry in between each layer. Remember, spray tanning is like painting a canvas - each coat has to dry before layering.
Step 3: Post- Tan and After Tan Maintenance Advice
A good tan should last 5 days, here are top tips to ensure you get maximum mileage out of your tan.
- Wait at least 8 - 10 hours before you have a shower as you want the tan to develop to a full richness.
- After showering always pat yourself dry with a towel, as you don’t want to rub off your tan.
- Avoid soaking in water, especially chlorine as this will fade the tan.
- Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise!!! Keep the skin well nourished and the solution will last longer on the skin.
- If inclined purchase a tinted tan extender. This helps with the longevity of your tan application and gives the skin that extra boost of cosmetic bronzer as well as hydrating the skin.
