Get glowing this summer! In June’s article, I talked about the importance of staying safe in the sun and protecting your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
Wearing sun protection doesn’t mean you can’t get a bit of a natural tan. It’s definitely a good plan to “fake it” if you want a safer depth of colour.
The Perfect “Fake” Tan!
Achieving the perfect fake tan requires some preparation and careful execution. The first step is to exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells and create a smooth surface for the tan. You can use an exfoliating scrub or a body brush to do this.
Next, moisturise your skin to prevent the tan from becoming patchy or flaky. It’s best to exfoliate and moisturise 24 hours before applying your tan. The oils from these products can affect how a tan develops. Also, choose the right fake tan product for your skin type and desired shade. There are lots of options: from an instant, wash-off style product to gradual tans and overnight tanning mousses.
A clever technology called “Plant Allo-Melanin” is a good thing to look for as it mimics your skin’s own melanin production (the substance which causes our skin to change colour in the sun), meaning you achieve a colour that’s tailored to you and won’t make you end up looking like an Oompa Loompa!
One Area at a Time
When applying the tan, start with a small amount and build up gradually, focusing on one area at a time. Use a tanning mitt or gloves to avoid staining your hands, and blend the product evenly, paying extra attention to elbows, knees, and ankles. Remember to wait for the tan to dry fully before getting dressed or going to bed.
To maintain your fake tan, moisturise your skin daily and reapply your tan every few days. When it’s time to remove the tan, exfoliate your skin again to help it fade evenly. It’s important to note that fake tanning products do not provide any sun protection, so always wear sunscreen when going outside (See my June article for sun protection tips).
Sensitive Skin
If you have sensitive skin or are unsure about using fake tan products, please feel free to get in touch and I’ll help you with some one-to-one advice. With these tips, you can achieve a natural-looking, long-lasting fake tan that will have you feeling confident and glowing all summer.
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