By Chloe Schneider
We are finally seeing the back end of winter and couldn’t be happier about it. But getting into shorts and cute dresses after months of stockings and pants is downright scary.
The solution? A tan.
No, we are not suggesting you head to the Bahamas’ for a weeklong sess’ in the sun. Dry, leathery, cancerous skin will never be sexy so you can throw that idea out right now.
With the days of orange, streaky tans far behind us, we at Rescu. are big believers in the confidence-boosting power of the fake bake. Thanks to brilliant innovations in tanning products there truly is something for every one and every occasion out there so we’re narrowed it down to our favourite products and services.
Professional Spray Tan
The Bronzing Boutique
If you are after a flawless tan for a night out, look no further than a spray tan. When it comes to spray tans, Rescu. girls head to Katrina Brown at The Bronzing Boutique.
Katrina has tanned Janice Dickinson, Lindsay Lohan and a host of other LA celebs. On our own shores, Sophie Monk, Kerri-Anne Kennerlly and Australia’s Next Top Model host Charlotte Dawson are all fans of Katrina so you know you’re in safe hands.
Having just moved from Joh Bailey’s salon in Double Bay to its own space, The Bronzing Boutique is quickly expanding. The new space is equipped with French cotton towels, candles, refreshments and the latest magazines. Taking your kit off to get a spray tan is never going to be a girl’s favourite experience but this beautiful space makes all the difference.
Rescu. Roadtest:
I played guinea pig and went out for my first spray tan with the bronzing queen Katrina Brown at The Bronzing Boutique in super chic Double Bay.
To say I have fair skin is an understatement. I am pretty much the blonde snow white so any tanning misgivings are instantly spotted. Katrina has developed a system whereby various shades of tan are meticulously mixed and applied using the latest airbrush-tanning machine. The result was a natural and even tan that lasted, I was seriously impressed!
Katrina’s top tan tips:
- Shower and exfoliate with an oil-free scrub prior to your tan
- Waxing or shaving should be done at least 8 hours prior to your tan
- Remove all lotions, make-up and deodorant before you tan. If you don’t get time to do this, don’t fret, The Bronzing Boutique has cleansing wipes and even a shower just in case.
- Wear loose, dark clothing and remember you will want to go bra-less on the journey home!
- Do not shower for at least 8 hours after your tan. When you do shower, wash with water only on the majority of your body.
- Do not use a loafer or exfoliant!
For more information visit www.thebronzingboutique.com.au
Full Body Spray tan $44.00.
Self Tan
The best first timer self tan
Natio Self Tan Mousse
This is a great choice for cautious tanners. The smooth, lightweight mousse formula is super easy to apply and a soft golden tan appears instantly so you won’t miss a spot.
A developing formula, this tan deepens over the following three hours and you are left with a beautiful, natural looking glow.
Rescu. Roadtest:
The chemical smell of tanning is enough to put us off the whole process sometimes so it is a relief to say that Natio’s offering has a delicate botanical smell.
We found this tan to be long-lasting, streak free and to deliver a natural glow.
Available from Myer, David Jones and selected pharmacies. www.natio.com.au ($17.95)
The overnight sensation
Lancome Flash Bronzer Night Sun
Lancome have developed a formula that works with the physiological condition of the skin at nighttime to ensure the efficacy and stability of DHA, the active self-tanning ingredient.
This formula is instantly absorbed so you don’t have to worry about your fave Peter Alexanders’ or linen being stained.
Rescu. Roadtest:
We were seriously impressed by this innovative formula.
The dream potion for ladies with limited time, Lancomes Flash Bronzer actually does allow you to apply your tan at night and wake up to a super long-lasting bronze.
The melting gel-cream is hydrating and light, offering skin comfort throughout the entire night.
Available at leading department stores and selected pharmacies ($59.00)
The natural choice
Elemental Herbologies Sun Kiss Body Hydrator
You won’t find any nasty chemicals in this one! Containing an eco-certified approved self-tanning agent derived from sugar beet, Elemental Herbologies is unique in its natural approach to tanning.
Rescu. Roadtest:
This is a gentle option for those looking for a subtle sun-kissed glow. There are low levels of self-tan in this product but the colour it produces is beautiful.
What we really love about this one is the texture, which allows the skin to breathe and calms over-exposed skin.
Available at Mecca Cosmetica ($56.00)
The building tan on a budget
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Natural Bronze Face and Body Lotion
These products combine Palmer’s signature Cocoa Butter and Vitamin E with a subtle tanner than gradually builds a natural bronze.
The face lotion in this range also includes a soy skin tightening ingredient and SPF 15.
Rescu. Roadtest:
We love these tanners because they allow you to build up a tan over an extended period of time, offering you more control over the depth. Palmers lotion has the added bonus of the delectable cocoa butter scent and we love the inclusion of SPF 15 in the face lotion.
Available at department stores and pharmacies. Body Lotion 250mL ($8.95) Face Lotion 60mL ($9.95)
The best mist tan
Invisible Zinc Jet Set Tan
If you like the idea of a self-spray, Jet Set Tan is for you. Using only two active ingredients to create a natural, balanced colour, this simple formula works wonders.
The bag-on-valve application technology delivers a superior mist without the nasty aerosol propellants.
Rescu. Roadtest:
Of all the self-sprays around, this one delivers the lightest, most evenly distributed mist. It leaves a luscious, natural bronze and has a delicious caramel scent. We love!
Available at Myer, David Jones, Priceline and premium pharmacies ($38.00)
The flawless face tan
Clinique Self Sun Face Tinted Lotion
This weightless tinted lotion gives you instant colour so you can see where it goes and then develops into a golden tan within a few hours.
Oil free, non-acnegenic and dermatologist tested, you won’t be doing your skin any harm either.
Rescu. Roadtest:
This is one of the best facial tanning products we have seen. There were no nasty break-outs and it produces a sheer, golden tan that lasts for days.
Available at department stores and online at www.clinique.com.au ($36.00)
Image Gisele Bundchen courtesy of PR photos.
