Summer is starting to come to a close and the beautiful weather we have enjoyed will soon be a mere memory – but that doesn’t necessarily mean that we can’t have sexy, gorgeous tanned skin all year ‘round! Read on for some terrific self-tanning tips that can help you get that nice summer tan, even in the dead of winter!

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Unless you are living on another planet, I’m sure you’re aware of the dangers and results of sun exposure. Skin cancer, premature aging, discoloration, to name a few. It’s not good for you, as good as you may look rocking a deep tan. I am going to teach you the proper way to apply a self tanning lotion so that you look good, feel good, and preserve your skin as long as you possibly can.

STEP ONE

Exfoliate all the areas you plan to tan. If you plan on waxing or shaving do it a day or 2 before. Use a moisturizing body scrub or a loofah and shower gel. The idea here is to smooth out any rough patches so the self tanner doesn’t stain in the areas where you are dry. Pay special attention to the ankles, knees and elbows and anywhere near the feet.

STEP TWO

Pat your skin dry and moisturize all over, again paying more attention to the dryer parts like knees, elbows, ankles and feet.

STEP THREE

Apply the self tanner by massaging it on to your skin like you would a body lotion, being careful to apply and even application of product so the color comes up natural looking. Go easy on the lower ankles because self tanner tends to develop darker there. Wash your hands thoroughly (with lots of soap) including between your fingers and cuticles. The product should dry in about 3 minutes so if you need to get dressed more quickly, get out a hair dryer or fan and help this process along. Should I mention that it’s not recommended to put on white or very light colored clothing anytime soon after self tanning? If you sweat, get caught in the rain or if it’s not completely dry your clothes will stain. I like to self tan before bed so I know there will be no problems with my clothing, especially since I wear a white uniform to work most days.

STEP FOUR

Maintain the color every few days by doing another application (minus the exfoliation step). Once the color starts to look uneven and dull or orange, its time to start over with a fresh application and exfoliate again. Be careful not to become a self tan-o-rexic because it can build up unevenly and look dirty and unnatural.

HELPFUL HINTS:

• If your skin is very oily or you have large, congested pores, I do not recommend using self tanner on the face as it will draw more attention to the pores when the color starts to darken. You’re better off with a powder bronzer.

• If your application is messy and you’re color develops unevenly, fresh lemon juice and a gentle body scrub will speed up the fading process.

• Never use a new self tanner for the first time before a special event. Experiment at an earlier time to see how the color comes up on you.

• Wait at least 10-12 hours before showering to avoid washing away some of the color.

• Apply a little petroleum jelly or hand cream to your nails and cuticles to provide protection against staining.

Happy tanning!

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