Getting a tan without going outside is a great way to achieve a sun-kissed look without the risks associated with sun exposure.
However, before you self-tan, it’s important to prep your skin to ensure an even application and long-lasting results. Begin by taking a shower, as this will help remove any dirt, oil, or sweat that may be on your skin.
Next, shave any areas that you plan to self-tan, as this will help ensure that the product is evenly distributed.
Additionally, it’s important to avoid using any moisturizers or lotions on your skin prior to self-tanning, as this can create a barrier that may prevent the product from being absorbed properly.
Finally, if you have any areas on your skin that are dry or flaky, it’s important to exfoliate them to ensure an even application. By taking these steps to prepare your skin, you’ll be able to achieve a flawless, natural-looking tan that will last for days.
Exfoliate for Smooth Results
One of the most important steps to achieving a smooth, even self-tan is to exfoliate your skin before you apply the product. Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells, which can create an uneven surface for the self-tanner to cling to.
To exfoliate your skin, start by using a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt to gently rub your skin in circular motions. Be sure to focus on areas that are particularly dry or flaky, as these areas tend to absorb more product and can lead to uneven patches.
After you’ve finished exfoliating, rinse your skin thoroughly with warm water and pat dry with a towel. Avoid using any moisturizers or lotions on your skin at this point, as these products can create a barrier that may prevent the self-tanner from being absorbed properly.
Skip Oil-Based Products
One of the most common mistakes people make when self-tanning is using oil-based products on their skin prior to application. Oil-based products, such as lotions or moisturizers, can create a barrier on the skin that can prevent the self-tanner from being absorbed properly.
To avoid this issue, it’s important to avoid using any oil-based products on your skin for at least 24 hours before self-tanning. If you must use a moisturizer or lotion, choose a water-based product instead.
Additionally, it’s important to avoid using any oil-based products on your skin after self-tanning as well. These products can cause your tan to fade more quickly, which can lead to an uneven, patchy appearance. Instead, opt for water-based products or those specifically designed for use with self-tanners.
Avoid Fragrances and Deodorant
Fragrances and deodorant can also affect the way self-tanner is absorbed into the skin, so it’s important to avoid using these products before and after self-tanning. Fragrances can interfere with the chemical reactions that occur during the self-tanning process, while deodorant can create a barrier that prevents the product from being absorbed properly.
To avoid these issues, it’s best to skip fragrances and deodorant for at least 24 hours before and after self-tanning. If you must use deodorant, choose a fragrance-free option and apply it sparingly to the underarms only.
By avoiding fragrances and deodorant, you’ll be able to achieve a more even, natural-looking self-tan that will last for days.
Moisturize Dry Areas
Even if you’ve exfoliated your skin well, there may still be areas that are particularly dry or flaky. To avoid an uneven self-tan, it’s important to moisturize these areas well before applying the product.
Areas that are particularly prone to dryness include the elbows, knees, and ankles. Apply a small amount of moisturizer to these areas, being careful not to overdo it. If you apply too much moisturizer, it can create a barrier that prevents the self-tanner from being absorbed properly.
By moisturizing dry areas before self-tanning, you’ll be able to achieve a smooth, even tan that looks natural and lasts for days.
Apply Barrier Cream to Sensitive Areas
If you have particularly sensitive skin, it’s important to apply a barrier cream to any areas that may be prone to irritation before self-tanning. This can include areas such as the face, neck, and chest.
Barrier cream helps to protect the skin from the self-tanner, which can be irritating to some people. It also helps to create a barrier that prevents the self-tanner from being absorbed too deeply into the skin. This can help to avoid an overly dark or orange-toned tan.
Apply a small amount of barrier cream to these areas before you begin self-tanning, being careful not to apply too much. This will help to protect your skin and ensure a more even, natural-looking tan.
Wear Loose Clothing After Tanning
After you’ve applied self-tanner, it’s important to wear loose, comfortable clothing for at least 8-12 hours. Tight clothing can rub against your skin, which can cause the self-tanner to rub off or become patchy.
Additionally, it’s important to avoid any activities that may cause you to sweat excessively, such as exercise or spending time in the sun. Sweating can cause the self-tanner to become streaky or patchy, which can ruin your tan.
By wearing loose clothing and avoiding activities that may cause excessive sweating, you’ll be able to ensure that your self-tan sets properly and lasts for days.
Wait 8-12 Hours Before Showering
Finally, it’s important to wait at least 8-12 hours before showering after self-tanning. This allows the self-tanner to fully absorb into the skin and set properly.
If you shower too soon after self-tanning, you risk washing off some of the product, which can lead to an uneven, streaky tan. Additionally, it’s important to avoid using any harsh soaps or exfoliating products in the shower, as these can also cause your tan to fade more quickly.
By waiting at least 8-12 hours before showering and avoiding harsh soaps or exfoliants, you’ll be able to ensure that your self-tan sets properly and lasts for days.
