If you're new to, or not a confident DIY self-tanner, have we got the tips for you. Editor Trudi Brewer shares her bronzing IQ.
Before you bare it all, here are the tips to help you get a regular gradual tanning routine this summer, says editor Trudi Brewer.
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What is self-tan?
For anyone nervous to use self-tan, it’s good to understand how tanning products work. The bronzing ingredient in self-tan is called dihydroxy-acetone or (DHA). This is extracted from sugar beets or sugar cane and works by reacting with dead cells in the skin's surface layer only. This is how it temporarily darkens the skin. The formulas range from gradual tanners to mousse, to oils and lightweight gels or lotions, these are the products we find the easiest to use to get a natural-looking bronze glow or what we call low commitment colour. Here’s how to get a streak-free flawless finish on your skin this spring.
Prep is the first step
Smooth, clean skin tans best
Your skin needs to be clean, and free from dry flakey patches before applying self-tan. Keep an exfoliating mitt in the shower to buff your body, and shave your legs prior to tanning.
Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Natural Bronze Body Lotion, $20.
A brilliant gradual tanning moisturiser with a small amount of tanner, but loads of cocoa butter and vitamin E. Ideal for tanning ‘beginners’ to get a streak-free summer glow while nourishing dry skin. And the good new - no fake tan odour just the delicious scent of cocoa butter.
For the time-poor
Dry body oils are a great way to hydrate your skin and tint it at the same time. The beauty of this kind of tanner is that it’s dry to touch in seconds - which means you can get dressed immediately after applying it.
Bondi Sands Everyday Liquid Gold Self Tanning Dry Oil, $24.
A gradual tanner that leaves a coconut-scented golden glow on the skin, that is dry in seconds. Ideal for anyone who is busy and wants a simple fuss-free application.
Always use a tanning mitt
A mitt promises a smooth, streak-free application of self-tanner. Start at your feet and work up the body in circular movements to prevent marks or tan lines. Tan your arms and the backs of the hands to last.
Bondi Sands Self Tanning Mitt, $11.
Velvet smooth, this mitt offers a streak-free application. Easy to use and it keeps your hands from staining, this mitt is also washable and reusable.
Try a no-commitment instant tan
For instant colour, that washes off; a tinted body lotion is a summer essential. You can swiftly add a hint of colour to your arms, legs and decollete before you walk.
MAC Strobe Lotion, $70.
A bronze version of one of our favourite skin illuminators, this Strobe Lotion, leaves a bronze pearlescent sheen on the skin, ideal for summer.
How to make your tan last
Vani-T Bronzing Custard, $50.
How to make your tan last
Always shower with body wash, instead of soap (as soap contains caustic that helps the tan fade faster). Make sure you moisturise daily - when skin becomes dry, self-tan begins to appear patchy and flake off. Top up your tan with a daily gradual tanner or for those in a hurry a weekly in-shower tanner to help your golden glow last longer.
Vani-T Tan Bronzing Custard, $50.
If you hate the scent of self-tan, this is your go-to faux glow. This gradual tanner gives your skin a bronze over a few days, from light and non-greasy formula, that is packed with skin-loving luxurious botanical oils - and you guessed it, it smells like vanilla custard.
Editor Trudi Brewer shares her tips and tricks on self-tanning on TV3’s The Cafe.
