How To Create an Even Self Tan in 4 Easy Steps
OK, I know everyone wants a beautiful sun-kissed glow to their skin during the summer — but laying out in the sun is not the best option. Unless you’ve been living under a rock you know too much time in the sun can be super damaging to your skin. Take it from someone who had skin cancer at 27 — DON’T DO IT!
Instead, give sunless tanners a try! There are a ton of great options out there that don’t leave your skin a shade of vibrant orange like an Oompa Loompa. However, having a great self-tanner isn’t enough to ensure a perfectly even tan. Below you will find the 4 best and easiest ways to ensure a perfectly even self-tan! Number 1 on the list: exfoliate!
If you don’t already use a body scrub with your self-tanner routine, now is the time to start! This summer I have been in love with Jan Marini’s body scrub which helps give my legs a healthy, long-lasting glow when paired with my self-tanning routine.
Jan Marini body scrub
1. Exfoliate
Not only does exfoliating your skin give you a smooth surface to work with, but you will also get a more even result allowing your self-tan to fade evenly. Also, make sure you don’t forget to exfoliate your elbows, knees, and ankles which are your “problem areas” when using a self-tanner (the thickest areas of skin that tend to absorb the most color).
2. Shave The Day Before
Don’t shave the day you want to apply self-tanner. Instead, shave the day before and wait one more day after applying the self-tanner to shave again. Do not apply self-tanner the same day you shave to reduce the chance of skin irritation and follicle pockets of self-tanner. Wait one day after applying self-tanner to avoid stripping the color from your legs.
3. Moisturize
Hydrated skin helps maintain an even self-tan and keeps it from fading too quickly. Uneven, patchy self-tans are most often caused by is dry skin. In addition to exfoliating your problem areas (elbows, knees, and ankles) make sure you are moisturizing them before and after application.
4. Allow For Dry Time
Apply the self-tanner in the evening, right before you go to bed. This gives your self-tanner plenty of time to settle on your skin before you jump in the shower when you wake up! Also, make sure to wear loose-fitting clothing. Clothing that fits too tight could result in a patchy self-tan.
**This post was sponsored by Jan Marini. All opinions are 100% my own.
