Self-tanning for Beginners: Things Everyone Should Know
Explained in a nutshell: valuable know-how on how to use self-tanning products!
We all want it, the ultimate summer glow. A touch of colour that makes us look like we've just come back from holiday. The truth is, however, that holiday tans fade quickly or we may not have been in the sun much at all this year. Besides, "getting a tan" is not healthy for our skin anyway. But we don't want to and don't have to live without a glow. The solution: Do it yourself! Self-tanner makes it possible for us to look like we've been kissed by the sun. It all sounds wonderful - but everyone who has tried it knows: A lot can go wrong and the dream of a summer tan can quickly turn into a nightmare in the bathroom. That's why today we're talking about important points that everyone who wants to use a self-tanner should keep in mind.
Choosing the right product
First and foremost, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the product. This means buying products from renowned brands, reading reviews in online shops or seeking professional advice in cosmetics shops. Your skin will thank you for it and you will thank yourself too if the result is accordingly positive.
Care should also be taken when it comes to the intensity of the product. The range usually goes from light to medium to dark. Some brands promise a "super bronze" effect, while others advertise "gradual tanning". The product should always be chosen with your own skin type in mind. If you have a lighter skin type, it is best to choose a product that promises only a light tan. Going for the darkest option right away can quickly look unnatural. Take it slow and see how much of an effect it has on your skin. (You can also try the self-tanner on a very small patch of skin before applying it to the whole body).
Prep-Time!
Secondly, everything comes down to the preparation. This is exactly the step that many don't pay attention to, even though it is absolutely essential. For the result to be good, the skin must be prepared. That means, first of all, jumping into the shower and - very important - treating the skin to an intensive peeling. An exfoliating glove or a body scrub that gently removes old skin cells works perfectly. This is the ideal preparation for a beautiful, even glow without stains. If you want to play it safe, make sure you are perfectly shaved. At the end of the shower, either take a cold rinse or wait a little while after showering so that the pores of the skin have closed again before you start.
The How-to
Some manufacturers supply a glove with their product that can be used to apply the lotion or foam. Alternatively, you can simply use a disposable rubber glove. Then let's get started, but please always with a system: work the body in sections and apply the product in even, big, circular motions. In front of the mirror, it's easy to keep an eye on whether you haven't left out a patch of skin. Hands, feet, face and neck are particularly delicate. A large, fluffy make-up brush is helpful for these areas to ensure a natural look. On hands and feet, it can also be useful to apply a little body lotion beforehand to achieve a more natural effect.
Practice is the key
Achieving optimal results with self-tanner is a skill that needs to be learned. The saying "practice makes perfect" applies here too. Tips and tricks are great, but our skin and desired results are different. So in the end, everyone has to do a bit of trial and error to find which product and method works best.
Photos: Shutterstock
