Smart Self-Tanning: How to Do It Right

By now, every girl knows that daily sun protection is a must, but why let that prevent you from catching that summertime glow? If you’re planning on looking sun-kissed sans sun, and want to skip the trip to the spray-tan salon, there’s a few things you need to know before you slather on the self-tanner.

Before you shop:

Know your skin type. People with oily skin should look for a spray or mousse, whereas someone with dry skin (like me, for example) are better off using the oils and cream self-tanners.

You’ll also want to choose a shade that is meant for your skin tone.

And check if the product is for face or body or both and choose accordingly.

If you don’t want to jump right into a serious glow:

You might want to start with a gradual self-tanner. These intensify slowly and let you build your glow at your own pace. It could take 2-4 applications before you see results.

If you’re getting straight to the point:

You can get instant results with the mousses and sprays and the more you use them, the deeper your tan will go.

Self-tanning steps you cannot miss

1. Hair removal comes first.
2. In the shower, exfoliate from head to toe (including your face). Scrub a little extra on the drier areas of your body like your ankles, elbows, knees and heels to avoid getting dark spots in these areas.
3. Apply a light moisturizer sparingly to your dry areas at least 30 mins before you apply your self-tanner
4. Apply a dime size of your self-tanning product to places on your face where the sun would naturally glow you. The bridge of your nose, forehead, cheeks etc. Blend outward and keep the product away from your eyes.
5. Apply to your body one teaspoon at a time, blending lightly over the dry areas (elbows, heels etc.) It’s best to use a mitt or latex gloves for this if you’re not using a spray. Start from the bottom and leave your arms and hands for last.
6. Wash your hands right away and wait until the self-tanner has fully dried.
7. Don’t shower or get wet for at least 7 hours.

Insider Tips

1. If you’re in a rush, dab baby powder on your skin to stop the product from transferring on your clothes.
2. Apply cream or moisturizer along your hairline to protect from staining.
3. Don’t forget your ears and neck for a seamless glow.
4. Keep moisturizing to prolong the last of your tan.
5. Tan intensity a little too much? Exfoliate or use glycol water to break down the colour.

Without following these steps, you won’t get the results you really want out of a self-tanning product.

So which ones should you choose? Here are our top 5 picks:

1. St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse
2. Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Water
3. Tan-Luxe The Gradual Tan Lotion
4. Lancôme Tinted Self-Tanning Gel
5. Kate Somerville Face and Body Tanning Towelettes