How to Get the Perfect Sunless Tan
Get the perfect "bottled" tan with sunless tanning products by exfoliating, cleansing, and moisturizing well before, during and after applying a self-tanner.
With the risk of skin cancer from sun exposure, and UV tanning beds now confirmed as being "as deadly as arsenic, mustard gas, plutonium and other known carcinogens," according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, more people are turning their backs on harmful ultraviolet rays and reaching for tan-in-a-can. A perfect sunless tan depends on smooth, fresh, moisturized skin to ensure an even application and absorption of the self tanning lotion or foam.
How Does Sunless Tanner Work?
According to Sunless.com the Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) in the sunless tanner reacts with the keratin protein in your skin's top layer, temporarily dying the skin. Your "tan" will fade away as this top layer of dead skin cells flakes away.
Exfoliate, Cleanse, & Moisturize for a Perfect Sunless Tan
When it comes to self tanner, you should religiously cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize. You should be sloughing away unwanted skin cells for at least a few days prior your sunless tanner application, and following the exfoliating with an ample application of rich moisturizer.
Exfoliate Regularly
By exfoliating with either a scrub or face cloth, you will give your skin a natural, dewy glow, allowing products to penetrate better, and you'll have rid yourself of dry, scaly patches of skin that soak up sunless tanner, resulting in unflattering, uneven patches.
Cleanse & Moisturize
On "tan" day, wash your skin well in the bath or shower, exfoliate as you have for the past few days, shave your legs, and moisturize your skin, paying special attention to those tough spots, like your knees, ankles, feet and elbows.
Following with moisturizer will help the tanner glide on seamlessly. Keep the water warm – not too hot – to avoid getting steamy and sweaty. Wait for your body to cool down and switch on the bathroom fan to get rid of the humid air before starting.
How to Apply Self Tanner
Dyes will tint any part of your skin that they touch. Avoid getting caught orange-handed by washing your hands every five minutes through your session, or by slipping on a pair of plastic gloves.
If you're home alone, or don't mind being nude around company, go naked for the all-over bronze look, or put on an old bathing suit if you're looking to create some "authentic" tan lines.
Apply an Even Coat of Self Tanner
Focus on applying self tanner to one area, and don't move on until you're finished. Apply more than you would your average moisturizer, and don't wait for the product to soak in completely - but do aim for an even coat.
Apply Less Self Tanner to Knees, Elbows & Trouble Spots
When working on rougher spots - ankles, knees, feet and elbows - slow down and use less tanner. These dry, hard areas soak up loads of product.
Use a Special Self Tanner for Your Face
If you want your face to have the same bronzed glow as the rest of your body, be sure to use tanner made just for your face and apply with care. Blend well into the hairline, and work product into the skin behind your ear. Your neck and face will absorb and react to the product more than the rest of your body, so use less self tanner.
After Applying Tanner
Wait for the sunless tanner to dry before getting dressed, and avoid contact with water for several hours. Your "tan" will typically appear within one to two hours, and will last for a few days, gradually fading away. You can keep your fake tan by routinely applying new product, but be sure to remember to exfoliate and moisturize.
