Okay, so you have done your research, bought your favorite self-tanner, and you're ready to go. Here are a few tips that I have learned from various articles and firsthand experience. While self-tanning has been around for sometime the products and results have improved greatly over the past few years, but to achieve that streak free sun kissed glow you have been craving, takes some time and a little planning.
Getting Ready- Plan to leave yourself one hour for the application and drying. Trying to rush this process will result in a not so great result. Wax, shave, or tweeze at least 24 hours in advance. If you think you might be sensitive to DHA (dihyroxyacetone), the main ingredient in most products you might want to test a small amount of your product on your inner arm the night before.
Exfoliate- Probably the most important part of tanning is assuring your skin is smooth and free of rough patches of old dry skin. My favorite method of exfoliation is dry brushing before you shower. A moderately firm bath brush is perfect. You can also use a mitt with an oil free wash. Just keep in mind any cleanser that or scrub that typically contains some oil can impede your results. That also means no lotion or deodorant after showering too.
Clothing Optional- I like to be completely bare when I tan, but I do have some friends that wear an old swimming suit.
Slow and Steady- Begin with your thighs, applying a large dollop. Smooth in tanner all the way down your legs to your ankles and to the tops of your feet. By the time you reach your feet the product should have thinned out. Next go to your middle, then to your shoulders and down your arms. Next do your face- remember to include your ears and the back of your neck! Your back can be a real challenage and you might want to invest in a long handled lotion applicator at your local drugstore.
Wash Your Hands- There is nothing worse than tanned cuticles or orange palms so wash your hands every five minutes. Once you lightly apply the tanner to the tops of your hands, wipe your palms and cuticles with a baby wipe or washcloth.
A Final Wipe- Go back with a soft dry cloth and buff the back of your heels, elbows, and knees to remove any excess from these areas. Little mistakes can be corrected by rubbing the area with a lemon half.
The Tan- It can take up to three hours for the color to totally develop so be patient. Wait 6 to 8 hours beofer showering.
Maintain- A self-tanner can last anywhere between 3 to 10 days. Avoid long showers and excessibe rubbing. Moisturize often. The dryer the skin the quicker the tan will flake and fade.
Useful Products- Check out Bathtub's Exfoliating Gloves at http://bit.ly/kz4P3t. Our Lotion Applicator will help apply tanner to hard to reach places.. Check it out here.. http://bit.ly/l0qwYH
LAST BUT NOT LEAST- Most self-tanners DO NOT have sunscreen in them so do not forget to apply your sun screen as you would normally.
Good Luck!!
Buzzie Buzz
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