Images of tanning mistakes still haunt many of us who have considered trying our hand at applying a spray tan without guidance. However, we now have more and better self-tanning products that make creating the perfect bronzed glow a breeze. That being said, there are some steps you can take to ensure that your spray tan goes on nice and easy.
1) Exfoliate Like Your Spray Tan Depends on It
There’s never a reason not to exfoliate, it is one of the best things you can do to keep your skin fresh and glowing. Especially before applying a spray tan. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, creating a smooth, even surface for the spray tan to adhere to. This gives you even, golden color.
Avoid exfoliators that contain oils. While great for locking in moisture, they also form a film on your skin that will block your tan. To get the best results, use exfoliating gloves and use both circular and lengthways motions. Make sure you take extra care around your décolletage, elbows, knees, and ankles.
Another option is to use a product such as Selfie Sunless Tan Remover and Primer. It will gently remove your old self-tanner and prepare your skin for your next session.
2) Avoid Shaving or Waxing for 24 Hours before Tanning
Waxing, shaving, or any other hair removal should be done 24 hours before your spray tan. This lets your skin calm down and allows any cuts to heal. If you wax directly after your spray tan, you run the risk of taking off your tan.
3) Moisturize Wisely
Don’t moisturize or wear perfume or deodorant the day you are planning to spray tan. If you can’t bear to not moisturize your face, just don’t use a facial oil the day of your spray tan session.
4) Take a Cold Shower
If you shower before your spray tan, blast some cold water on your skin. This will shrink your pores and minimize the chance of them getting blocked.
5) Slather on Some Aloe Vera
Yes, I said don’t moisturize before you spray tan, but there are a few exceptions. Namely, your hands, elbows, feet, and knees. These areas tend to be dry and will collect excess product.
6) Try Sculpting and Highlighting
If you want to get fancy, try your hand at sculpting and highlighting. Just add a little extra spay tan to the areas you want to contour – underneath the collarbones, the bicep indent, you can even give yourself abs. If you are short on time, you can do this step with an instant tanner or bronzer. Then highlight with an illuminator.
7) Moisturize after Your Spray Tan
Moisturize as much as possible after your spray tan. This will increase the life of your tan and help keep the tan from becoming patchy due to dry skin.
Follow these tips and you’ll end up with the perfect glow every time.
