The dangers of sunbathing are well documented which is why fake tanning is becoming increasingly popular. Follow these simple steps to ensure you achieve a perfect looking tan.

Pre- Application

(a) If you have sensitive skin, do a patch test on a small area of skin 24 hours before applying to the entire body. If a reaction develops do not use.

(b) Exfoliate thoroughly and preferably for 2-3 days prior to the self tan application. This will give a smoother surface for the fake tan to be applied and will prevent the tan becoming patchy and uneven.

(c) Moisturise on a daily basis, preferable using a moisturiser that is from the same brand as the self tanning product. Avoid oil based moisturisers which can prevent absorption of self tanning products making them patchy and uneven.

(d) Remove any unwanted hair at least 24 hours before applying the self tan.

(e) Remove hard skin from heels of feet.


Before You Start

(a) Remove all traces of make up with a non oil based cleanser or make up remover.

(b) Remove jewellery.

(c) Do not wear perfume, deodorant or oil based body lotion.


Application Instructions

Step 1: Exfoliating
Exfoliate the entire body using a generous amount of exfoliating product, paying particular attention to elbows, knees, hands, feet and ankles. Once the product has been rubbed thoroughly into the skin it can either be mitted, sponged or rinsed off. Dry the skin thoroughly.

Step 2: Moisturising
Apply moisturising body lotion all over the body, paying particular attention to drier areas including the elbows, knees, ankles, feet and hands. Leave to absorb thoroughly.

Step 3: Self Tan Application
(a) Wear gloves to protect the hands from staining.
(b) Apply a small amount of fake tan to the fingertips, and apply to the face in small circular movements. Blend the product over the entire face, as if applying foundation. (c) Apply minimum product around the eyebrows and hair line, to the ears and behind the ears.
(d) Apply the product evenly to the neck and shoulders, again working in small circular movements down towards the arms.
(e) Bend the elbows, and apply minimum product to elbows working down towards the lower arm and apply evenly.
(f) Apply product to breast area if required working down towards the stomach.
Bend knees and sweep only minimum product over knees.
(g) Apply a generous amount of product evenly to upper and lower legs but again using minimum products over the ankle.
(h) Sweep minimal fake tan over the feet, avoiding contact with the nails and soles of the feet as this may cause staining.
(i) Ask someone to help you apply self tan to your back.
(j) Take off one glove and sweep it across the other hand. Take off the second glove and sweep it over the other hand gently. Avoid getting product on the nail plate and palms of the hands as this causes staining.

Step4: Allow to dry thoroughly without coming into contact with water


While Tan Develops

(a) Wear loose clothing and no footwear if possible
(b) Avoid perspiration by avoiding exercise and heat
(c) Keep the skin completely dry
(d) Do not apply any other toiletries or beauty products
(e) Do not shower for at least 6-8 hours. Preferably apply before bed and shower in the morning.

After the tan has developed avoid using the following beauty products:

(a) Harsh exfoliating products and facial scrubs
(b) Products that contain AHA’s
(c) Body brushes / loofahs / mitts

Gently pat the skin dry after showering, do not rub. Avoid excessive use of soaps. Avoid waxing, shaving or bleaching. Avoid swimming as this will shorten the life of the tan, and will lighten the colour.

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Penny Lane writes for Beauty Counter Direct, who offer self tanning, skin care, designer brand cosmetics and perfumes at discount prices.