Maybe you have a Caribbean cruise planned or a charity ball that’s ideal for your favorite strapless gown. Or maybe you’re just feeling a little drab because you’re not seeing the slimming results you were hoping for from your New Year’s resolutions. Whatever the case may be, you can perk up your skin and your mood by applying a self-tanner to get a fabulous glow and even look thinner.
First, you’ll want to exfoliate the area of skin you’re going to self-tan. One exfoliator that we particularly like is Beautisol’s Go Slough Yourself ($19).
Avoid using a moisturizer before applying the tanner, or your skin may be too slick for an even application. In other words: obvious streaks.
Self-tanners come in various types: quick-drying creams, easy-to-apply lotions, gels, foams, sprays (which are great for hard-to-reach areas) and towelettes, which give a nice, precise application.
Experiment with several different self-tanners to find the type you like best. A few of our faves: Fake Bake Flawless Self Tan ($24), which comes with an application mit; the moisturizing (and good-smelling) Xen-Tan Scent Secure Daily Protection ($32); and NewBeauty Beauty Choice Product Award Winner St. Tropez Gradual Tan Everyday Mousse ($30).
When applying the self-tanner, start with just one layer at a time. You can always add another layer later for a deeper tan, but you’ll have to wait it out if you go too dark.
If your skin looks streaky, use a dry cloth with a bit of exfoliator to correct the problem. Then you can add another light layer.
Which are your favorite self-tanners and do you have any expert application tips to share?
Related Links:
Does Self-Tanner Protect Skin From the Sun?
How to Get the Best Results From Self-Tanner
