Just like foundation for the skin, it’s all about the prep when applying a fake tan for ultimate success.
I feel so many rush the prep of a fake tan thinking, it’s the body, it will be fine, but then are left with a not so seamless result once applied.
We are all pretty well educated with our face; moisturise, then use a primer, add the foundation and lastly a highlighter to finish the skins look.
The body is very similar, a fake tan needs moisture to survive, otherwise, just like on the face, the tan can look obvious, show streaks and wear very badly.
We all can be a bit slack with moisturising the body, but if you are a regular tanner or know you are applying one very soon, you need to amp up your moisture levels to make sure your tan doesn’t become a layer of colour, sitting on top of your skin – it should bond like a second skin for a flawless glow.
There a few things to think about when tanning and I have a mini Tan Diary for you to follow, so you’ll get it right, every time!
So, let’s say your special occasion is on a Saturday…
MONDAY – WEDNESDAY
Start to add as much moisture in your skin daily as possible – no one likes a dry looking tan.
THURSDAY
Any hair removal and/or exfoliation should be done the day before your tan is applied – (at the latest Friday morning) – as this can sometimes dry out the skin, its best the day before so your skin has another top up of moisture before tan is applied.
FRIDAY
Day of tan – as late in the day as possible.
- Don’t exfoliate your body on the day as it cab dry out your skin
- Don’t moisturise your entire body the day of your tan, you will create a barrier between tan and skin.
- Only moisturize the dry areas of the body – Knees, Ankles, Writs and hands. This will create a barrier between tan and skin for the areas that tend to ‘cling’ and ‘grab’, giving off an orange look.
- Make sure the face and clean and only moisturise if very dry or if you like a lighter effect.
Try and sleep with your tan on, or at least 4-6 hours, this will maximise development of colour.
SATURDAY
Wake up and shower as normal.
Apply body moisturizer thoroughly to lock in the tan and continue this daily for as long as you can to help extend your tans life.
MB PRO TIP: Dilute formula with a little moisturizer if you don’t want to look too dark, or are scared about the experience – it also can make some formulas easy to blend in.
There are hand mits from most tan brands to have easier application and to protect your hands from discoloration.
But, in all honesty, I love using my bare hands.
You can really get into it, working and massaging your hands into the body, for a completely flawless tan.
As to getting the tan off your hands, hair removal cream can dissolve away any tan, if it’s just applied that is – I’ve never had orange hands!
Try these tips out and remember, the more moisture locked in the less tan will fade and crack away = winning!
