It may be skirt season but with the easing of restrictions continually being pushed back, our dreams of tanned skin, bikinis and sand in our toes, seem to be dangling just out of reach.
Although we may not be able to replicate our Pinterest, dream getaways at home, we may be able to get a somewhat, island-worthy glow.
Fake tan for many induces heavily scented, uneven and orange toned nightmares. It is safe to say, many have had an undesirable experience with faux tanning. However, with advanced formulas, tropical scents and added skin-friendly ingredients on the market, green-toned tan and tangerine hands are a thing of the past.
There are a number of ways to make sure that you get your ideal summer glow minus any of the fake tan fails that haunt us.
Here is everything you need to know about getting a glow without the getaway, besides you have to fake it ’til you make it, right?
Self-tanner myths to stop believing now
Let’s face it, part of the reason so many of us shy away from self-tanners is down to the disaster stories we have heard from friends and every rain-streaked celebrity leg we have seen on the cover of a tabloid magazine. But, not all you hear is true and there are lots of misconceptions when it comes to self-tanning.
The most common misconception and biggest tan turn off is, that fake tan will make you look orange. This is not necessarily true, it really comes down to the formula. Most self-tanners do, when applied correctly, offer a natural-looking, bronzed tan. However, if you are still worried about looking less sun-kissed and more oompa loompa, look for a formula with green undertones. Although it may sound like an unlikely fit, it ensures a bronzed look closer to a natural tan.
For those of us who love crisp, white bed sheets, the thought of waking up to bronze, streaked sheets is enough to lock the tanning products away for good. However, with innovations like clear self-tanner, there’s no need to worry about stained bedding or clothes anymore.
Finally, many believe that using a self-tanner will prevent them from getting a natural tan, this is not true. Whilst the self-tanner will provide an extra layer between your skin and the sun, it will not stop you from getting a natural tan, it actually means the sun’s rays won’t be as strong. Using a self-tanner before spending time in the sun is the perfect way to give yourself a head start.
It’s all in the prep
Many self-tan mistakes are actually made before the tanning product has even been applied. Much of the process involves preparation and it is important to get the base right before you apply the self-tanner.
Exfoliating is one of the key steps you should be taking to prep your skin before using a self-tanner. Exfoliating will slough off dead skin cells from the surface of skin, which can help you get a more even application when you apply your tanning product. When exfoliating, focus on drier areas like knees and elbows since they may absorb color quicker. That’s why you may have noticed those spots getting darker than the rest of your body when you use self-tanner without exfoliating first.
The next step in your self-tanning prep routine should be moisturizer. Many think that applying a moisturizer before tanning will interfere with the tanner and create streaks. Moisturizing can actually help you get more even coverage and make the application process go smoother. Again, focusing on areas such as elbows and knees along with wrists and ankles to ensure a smooth and even application with glowing hydrated skin.
Finally, aim to apply your tanning products in the evening to allow it to develop into a luscious bronze by morning. After applying leave enough time to dry thoroughly and avoid tight-fitting or restrictive clothing.
Finding the perfect faux-fit
With so many self-tanning options available, from tanning wipes to gradual tanning oils, it can be difficult to find the perfect fit for you.
The truth is, there is no perfect fit for all. Your ideal self-tanner will depend on what works for your skin type, tone and the style of application that you find most convenient.
If you are a self-tanning beginner, opting for a gradual tanner may be the most inviting option. These formulas offer a subtle and natural colour change that you can build up to your desired colour. They come in a variety of options, lotions, mousses and oils and applied on a daily basis will build a natural glow over time.
If you want a stronger tan, quickly then you may opt for a deeper tanning product such as a tanning spray, mousse or foam formula that gives results after only a couple of hours. This gives less control over colour but quick and even results when applied correctly.
Acing your tan doesn’t stop there. Tanning your face should also be done with caution if you want to avoid your face looking a drastically different colour to the rest of your body. Lots of brands offer self-tanning products specifically for facial use and matching the shade and formula to that used on your body is essential to getting an even tan. Using facial tanning drops can allow greater control over the intensity of the tan as they are mixed with your moisturizer to leave skin with a subtle sun kissed glow, without residue.
Top tan products to ace your glow
Now we have established that self-tanning isn’t all sticky formulas and unrealistic tones, we have chosen some of the best products on the market for whatever your preference or occasion. Whether you need a glow fast or want something that builds gradually and perfectly emulates a natural, holiday tan, there’s a product for you.
This Australian brand is favoured by self-tanning obsessives the world over and it’s clear to see why. Their newest addition is a milky formula that gradually builds a natural, all-over glow. Enriched with skin-loving ingredients such as, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C and Vitamin E, it brightens, smooths and nourishes skin at the same time. The perfect addition to your summer skin routine if a healthy glow is your goal.
It may be small but it sure is mighty. This Sisley facial self-tanner is the gold standard for luxurious face tanning. Not only will it give the ultimate golden glow in just a couple of hours, it has great skincare benefits too. Ingredients such as wild pansy and chestnut will help to keep skin hydrated, so you won’t experience dryness post fake-tan.
This one stop, quick-fix helps to blur imperfections, even tone and smooth skin whilst leaving a gorgeous, golden tint. It gives results in an instant and won’t transfer onto clothes. It is available in five shades to suit a range of skin tones and the formula has been designed to reflect light, leaving skin with a glossy and luminous finish.
Isle Of Paradise has quickly become a cult tanning range. This mousse has colour correcting actives to help even out and brighten sallow skin tones and create your most natural looking tan ever. Developing over 4-6 hours, this mousse gives a rich, bronzed glow and is packed with organic botanicals such as coconut oil and avocado to care for skin whilst you glow.
For quick and easy application, tanning wipes will be your new summer essential. Famed skincare brand, Dr Dennis Gross may be known for its facial exfoliating pads, but these tanning wipes are here for their moment to shine. The anti-ageing pack of 20 self-tanning pads contain hyaluronic acid to keep the skin supple and hydrated whilst offering a subtle, sun-kissed glow in no time.
