Here are my tips and tricks for achieving a natural tan all year long…
In case you were unaware, I’m a descendant of polar bears. I rarely tan, and if I do it fades very quickly. It takes a long time for me to see any kind of color (is it possible for skin to reflect the skin?), so I regularly turn to self tanning to help me achieve a healthy looking glow. Also, it’s safer for your skin than baking in the sun!
I want to share some of my tips and also a few of my favorite products. I love trying out new self tanners, so if you have one you love drop me a comment or dm me on Instagram!
SELF TANNING FAVORITES
- OVERNIGHT BODY: If you’re someone who likes tanning at night I recommend both THE WATER, THE BODY and THE GRADUAL from Tan-Luxe. All of these products go on clear so they’re less likely to stain your clothes and sheets (though I still always wear dark clothing to bed when using any type of sunless tanning solution). Tip: THE WATER can be used alone with a tanning mit, but I mix THE BODY and THE GRADUAL together. You can also mix THE BODY with your everyday moisturizer!
- QUICK TAN: I’ve been using Miami Gorgeous during my pregnancy and LOVE it! It’s organic and safe, plus it gives you quick color. I’ll apply this in the morning if I want some fast color. (I also want to try out this one and this one).
- FACE: I actually have a very specific way I apply sunless tanner to my face. You can check out that 1-minute tutorial here. If you just want something quick, I also recommend THE FACE by Tan-Luxe because you just add drops to your moisturizer. You can make it as light or dark as you want! I’d also love to try this organic serum as I hear great things!
APPLICATION TIPS
- It’s definitely a good idea to exfoliate in the shower pre-tan, but I’ll be honest with you – I don’t always follow this rule. It does help your tan go on more evenly, but I sometimes forget. Just keeping’ it real!
- ALWAYS use a mitt!!! I can’t stress this enough. Mits help the product go on smoothly and prevent you from getting sunless tanner all over your palms. I use this one, which is great because it comes with two different sized application mits plus a mit for exfoliating!
- After your application, rub a little lotion over those tough spots (feet, ankles, knees, elbows). I like to use coconut oil because we always have it on hand.
- Wear loose, dark clothes after application. Nothing too tight! When I self-tan at night, I wear a specific pair of big black sweatpants and an oversized black or gray t-shirt.
I hope these tips were helpful! I love a good tan, and sunless tanner definitely helps me achieve that “glowy” look sans wrinkles! If you have any other tips/products, I’d love to hear about them!
Love, Lindsey
