My favorite accessory for warm weather is a gorgeous, natural looking faux glow! With the arrival of summer, I wanted to share some of my expert tips, tricks, and tried and true products for achieving the very best at-home tan.
Getting an even, flawless result is easier than you think. If you are new to tanning, I have you covered after years of perfecting my technique. After all, the most important part of a natural looking glow is the prep work!
1. Exfoliate
Self-tanner loves to sink into dry skin, so exfoliate before you tan. Make sure to pay close attention to areas that have rough skin like your heels, elbows, and knees. Since you can’t shower for hours post-tan, go ahead and shower and wash your hair. It would be sad to remove your hard work of applying your tan by shaving it off, so I recommend waxing, sugaring, or shaving prior to tanning as well. This includes removing facial hair, so make sure to derma-plane and tend to your eyebrows prior to applying your tan. Avoid deodorants, perfumes, oils, and anything that will keep your tan from adhering to your skin properly.
2. Moisturize
It’s important that your skin is well-hydrated before applying your tan. I like to moisturize the day before I tan so that it has time to absorb!
3. Grab Your Favorite Tanning Products
I have a few favorites products that I think you will love! For my face, I have been loving the St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist and Isle of Paradise Self Glow Serum. I love that they can be used daily. Just be sure to wash your hands immediately after applying.
For my body, I prefer a foam. You can usually find me using St. Tropez Foaming Mousse (in extra dark) or the Il Mackiage Magic Moisturizing Sun Foam. I find these foams streak-free, easy to apply, and fast drying, especially when applied with a double sided mitt. If you skip the mitt, you may find yourself with orange hands for the next few weeks!
In case a mousse is not your favorite, you might try these self-tan body oils: (Sol de Janeiro Glowmotions Glow Body Oil and the Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Oil Mist) or these self-tanning waters (The Water Hydrating Self-Tan Water and the Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Water).
No mater what I’m using for my body tan, I like to start with my legs and work my way up. I also apply the product in a sweeping motion rather than a circular motion.
When you’re finished tanning, you can blend your tan with a lightweight moisturizer to ensure you are not left with any streaks! If you need to clean up any areas like your finger nails or cuticles, a cleansing wipe or baby wipe does a great job. Let everything dry completely before getting dressed and avoid showering or sweating for 6-8 hours.
4. Maintain Your Tan
If you’re like me, you want your tan to last as long as possible. To keep your faux glow from fading, make sure to keep your skin super hydrated by applying your favorite moisturizer.
Looking for more beauty finds?
You’ll want to read my post about the 7 Clean Summer Beauty Products I Can’t Live Without. I also would recommend checking out the clean beauty section from Sephora. They have a great selection, and the reviews are super helpful!
Plus, be sure to check out more of my recent finds on my Shop Page or follow me in the LikeToKnow.It app!
xo,
Gracie
PS – Follow along on my Instagram, @graciehunt, for more of my daily life.
