So, you want to glow for that upcoming event? The tanning bed is not your friend, neither is the sun’s harmful UV rays. The only other solution is self-tanner. There are a wide variety of self-tanning products that don’t make you look orange. And most of those products can be used on the face or body.
When applied correctly, you’ll look like a younger version of yourself. The great thing about self-tanner is that you don’t need to hire a professional. All you need is the right self-tanning product. But how can you pull off the tanned look without leaving your house?
To achieve your desired results, read these five self-tanning tips that will make you look like a bronzed goddess.
Tip #1: Remove Self-Tanning Mistakes with Curdled Milk
While a lemon slice can do the trick, it’s not for the most sensitive parts of your body, especially if you just shaved. To prevent irritation, use curdled milk to erase those self-tanning mistakes. Create a curdled milk mask with a few squeezes of lemon juice and a lemon wedge. Allow the mixture to sit for an hour, so that the curdled milk turns into a paste.
This paste will make it easier to adhere to your face and body. Why should you use lemon? They awaken the alpha-hydroxy acids that’s found in milk, so you can apply it to the most sensitive parts of your skin for about 15 minutes. It’s gentler than applying lemon directly to your skin and it quickly removes those self-tanning mistakes. You’re left with nothing but a glow.
Tip #2: The Right Way to Apply Self-Tanner to Your Face
Self-tanning your face is just as important because it makes you look alive. It makes you look younger and refreshed. You’ll look as if you just came back from a two-week beach vacation. Since self-tanning your face is different than self-tanning your body, it’s important to find one that provides a gradual tan.
There’s an easy process to applying self-tanner to your face. First, make sure to pull your back hair back in a ponytail so you don’t miss your ears. Next, cleanse and exfoliate your face before using the self-tanner. Then you can apply moisturizer and under-eye cream.
You can also combine your self-tanner with equal parts of your moisturizer. Then apply the mixture gently to your face, neck, and decolletage. Apply the remainder on your earlobes, backs of your ears, and the upper ears. Don’t forget to wash your hands after.
The key is to tan one shade darker than your natural skin tone. The color should develop within three hours. After that time, you can apply bronzer to your cheeks, forehead, and nose area.
Tip #3: Waterproof & Create a Protective Barrier
The dry areas of your body, such as your elbows, feet, and knees tend to attract more color than the other parts. Before you reach for that self-tanner, apply one layer of lotion to each of those areas. Allow the lotion to absorb completely and don’t apply farther than your ankles or wrists. If you use too much lotion, you’ll end up with streaks and marks.
In addition, you should waterproof your tan. Unfortunately, not all self-tanners work the same, not even the expensive ones. They also don’t last as long as they claim since busy women take baths and showers. Just apply body oil several minutes before you step in the shower.
This body oil will act as a protective barrier that prevents your self-tanner from washing off quickly. An added bonus is that you’ll end up with moisturized skin. You should also use a body wash that’s gentle, pH-balanced, and contains natural ingredients. There are too many body washes and soaps on the market that contain parabens, sulfates, and high levels of pHs that strip your skin and washes out your tan.
Tip #4: Don’t Forget to Use Moisturizer
If you’re new to the world of tanning, using self-tanner may look intimidating. If you have a fair or pale complexion, then you should apply moisturizer before using this product. Moisturizer can help dilute even the darkest of self-tanners and make it appear lighter on your skin. If you’re using an overnight self-tanning lotion, then you can skip the moisturizer as it already hydrates your skin. If you have naturally dry skin, then wait several minutes for the product to absorb. Then you can follow-up with your favorite moisturizer.
Tip #5: The Right Way to Apply Self-Tanner to Your Body
Applying self-tanner to your body doesn’t have to be scary or stressful. You should always start with your legs. Using disposable gloves or a hand mitt, gently rub the self-tanner into your ankles, calves, feet, and toes. Then you’ll want to focus on the front and backs of your thighs and apply the remainder to your knees.
The last step is to apply self-tanner to your hips, stomach, and torso. Then you should stop at your arms and torso. Wait 30 minutes before changing or going to bed.
You should plan to apply self-tanner before an upcoming event such as a high school reunion or wedding. If you’re taking a shower the following morning, be avoid exfoliating or scrubbing. Then, rub extra body oil into your legs and arms for that extra hint of glow.