Achieving a Natural Glow: Self-Tanning Tips To Consider

Want a natural-looking tan without the risks — one that leaves you looking flawless and feeling confident? These self-tanning tips will help you achieve the perfect sunless tan, no matter the weather. So, grab your favorite product and get ready to achieve a radiant glow.
 

To "self-tan" means using a product on your skin to mimic a tan from the sun. Self-tanning, or sunless, products are a safe alternative to both outdoor and indoor tanning because they reduce the risk of ultraviolet (UV) light damage and skin cancer. With the right products and techniques, you can achieve a beautiful tan that lasts for days.
 

Choose Your Self-Tanner

First, choose a self-tanner that complements your skin tone. If you have fair skin, opt for a lighter formula to avoid an unnatural orange tint. If you have a darker skin tone, choose a darker formula for a naturally burnished look.
 

Self-tanners come in various formulas, including mousse, lotion, spray, towelettes and gel. Each formula has its benefits. For example, mousse dries quickly, lotions are moisturizing, sprays are convenient for hard-to-reach areas and towelettes offer a mess-free option. It can be tricky to choose when there are so many options, so take some time to read product reviews if you need help figuring out which product fits your needs.
 

Prepare Your Skin

Preparation is key to a natural-looking tan that will stick around. Follow these steps beforehand for great results:
 

· Shower before self-tanning to remove dirt, oil and sweat from your skin.
 

· Exfoliate to remove dead skin cells, which can cause patches and streaks. Use a body scrub or washcloth to exfoliate, paying extra attention to dry areas like knees, elbows and ankles.
 

· It's best to wait 24 hours after shaving before applying self-tanner to make sure any cuts or nicks are healed. If you can't wait that long, finish your shave with cold water to close your pores.
 

· Test your chosen self-tanner on a small area of skin to make sure the color looks natural on you. Do a patch test by applying a small amount of self-tanner to a small area, such as your inner arm or behind your ear. Wait 24 hours to see if any irritation or allergic reactions occur.
 

· In the days leading up to self-tanning, moisturize your skin regularly to keep your skin hydrated and prevent dry patches.
 

How To Apply Self-Tanner

Follow our self-tanning tips to end up with a smooth finish:
 

· Use a tanning mitt for proper application. This will help create an even appearance and prevent the product from staining your hands.
 

· Apply self-tanner in thin layers to ensure an even application and prevent streaks.
 

· When applying to your face, use a tanning mitt or your fingers to apply the product in a circular motion. Blend the product into your hairline and ears to prevent obvious lines.
 

· For your feet, dilute the product with a little moisturizer to avoid dark patches.
 

· When applying to your back, use a tanning mitt or ask someone for help. Apply in a circular motion and blend it into your neck and shoulders.
 

· Pay extra attention to your knees and elbows. Use a few drops of self-tanner in these areas to avoid dark patches.
 

· After applying self-tanner, blot excess product from your skin using a paper towel. This will help prevent streaks or blotches.
 

· Wait 10 minutes before getting dressed to allow the product to dry.
 

Post-Tanning Care

Once you know how to apply self-tanner, you can stay "sun-kissed" all year long! Here are more tips for caring for your self-tanned skin:
 

· Wear loose, breathable clothing to avoid rubbing off your tan onto the fabric of your clothes or surroundings. Also, consider wearing darker clothing — or something you don't mind staining — for the first eight hours, just in case there is some color transfer.

· Moisturize your skin regularly to prevent dryness and flaking. Apply lotion or oil to your skin after bathing to keep it soft. This will also help your tan fade evenly.
 

· Protect your skin from sun damage. Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen when going outside and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
 

How To Make Your Tan Last

Now that you've taken the time to build a beautiful tan, take precautions to keep it as long as possible. Here's how:
 

· If you sweat or shower too soon after application, the tanner can become streaky. So, avoid these for at least eight hours after applying self-tanner. This will give the product enough time to fully develop and set on your skin.
 

· The wrists, ankles and heels are all areas that can easily become patchy or streaky. Apply tanner evenly to these areas and use a lighter hand to avoid excess product buildup.
 

· If needed, reapply after a couple of days to extend your tan or make it darker.
 

Getting a natural-looking tan without UV rays is easy. Prepare your skin properly, exfoliate, moisturize and choose the right self-tanner for your skin tone and type, and you'll be on your way to a radiant tan that leaves you looking like you've spent hours on the beach. It's time to enjoy the glow without damaging the skin from the sun's UV rays. Happy tanning!
 

These articles are intended for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and are not intended to treat or cure any disease. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in these articles. Advances in medicine may cause this information to become outdated, invalid, or subject to debate. Professional opinions and interpretations of scientific literature may vary. Consult your healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, exercise or medication regimen.