How To Prep Your Skin For Self-Tanning
Self-tanning is a great way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without exposing yourself to harmful UV rays. However, if you want to get the best possible results from your self-tanning products, it's important to prepare your skin properly beforehand. In this post, we'll walk you through the steps you should take to prep your skin for self-tanning.
Clean skin with no product residue is the goal to prepping your skin for self-tanning. Use a mild gentle shower wash. Sulfate free clear washes work best as they don't leave a film on your skin.
Step 1: Exfoliate & Hair Removal
Exfoliating is an important step in any self-tanning routine because it removes dead skin cells and helps to create a smooth, even base for your tanning product. Use an exfoliating mitt to scrub your skin all over, paying extra attention to rough or dry areas like your knees, elbows, and ankles. Be sure to wash off thoroughly afterwards.
Shave or Wax: If you plan on shaving or waxing, do so at least 24 hours before applying self-tanner. This will give your skin time to recover and prevent any irritation or bumps from forming. As well as allowing your pores to close.
Step 2: Moisturize
Once you've exfoliated, it's important to moisturize your skin to keep it hydrated and healthy. Apply a light unscented moisturizer to your entire body, paying extra attention to any dry or flaky areas. This will help to create an even base for your self-tanning product and prevent it from clinging to dry patches.
Step 3: Wait
After you've exfoliated and moisturized, it's important to wait before applying your self-tanning product. Prepping your skin the day before you want to self-tan is optimal. But if you are in a hurry you should wait at least an hour after moisturizing to allow your skin to fully absorb the moisturizer and your skin to calm down from exfoliating and any hair removal. This will prevent your tanning product from being diluted by any residual moisturizer on your skin.
Step 4: Apply your self-tanner
When you're ready to apply your self-tanner, it's important to follow the instructions carefully. Make sure you apply the product evenly all over your body, paying extra attention to areas like your knees, elbows, and ankles. Use a tanning mitt or gloves to avoid getting the product all over your hands, and be sure to blend well around your hairline, neck, and ears.
Step 5: Wait and rinse
Once you've applied your self-tanner, it's important to wait for it to dry completely before getting dressed. This can take anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour depending on the product you're using, so be sure to check the instructions. Once your self-tanner is dry, you can rinse off any excess product in the shower.
Avoid Oils and Cremes: Before applying self-tanner, avoid using any body oils or heavy cremes on your skin. These can create a barrier that prevents the self-tanner from absorbing properly.
Wear Loose Clothing: After applying your self-tanner and letting it dry, wear loose clothing to prevent any rubbing or smudging. Avoid tight-fitting clothes or anything that may cause friction against your skin. If you are headed for bed wear long jammie pants and a long sleeved loose top.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your self-tanning product goes on smoothly and evenly, giving you a beautiful, natural-looking tan without the harmful effects of the sun. With a little bit of prep work, you'll be ready to show off your glowing, radiant skin all year round!