An article written for natural & organic healthcare & beauty retailer, Naturally Better You.
Holiday season is, sadly, behind us, but everyone wants to keep that gorgeous, golden glow. With lack of sun (and more knowledge now than ever about the health and aging issues sun exposure can cause), more of us are relying on the fake stuff for that beautiful, bronzed finish.
But with horrific, Oompa-Loompa style memories from (failed) past attempts, is there really a fake-but-natural-looking alternative to a sun-kissed glow?
Here, we’ve made the errors for you and brought together the tips you’ll need to be glowing in no time!
Firstly, preparation is key. Do get rid of any unwanted hair before your tan - but don’t wax just before or after! Waxing can take off some of the dead skin cells on the surface layer of the skin, making it more likely your tan will end up patchy. Leave a day in between waxing and tanning to ensure skin has adequate time to recover.
Next, exfoliating is an unmissable step. Do use a scrub on all areas you plan to tan, paying particular attention to drier areas of the body like the elbows, knees, hands and feet. Once complete, you’ll have removed all the dead skin cells and should have a lovely, smooth canvas on which to apply your tan. Giovanni Hot Chocolate Scrub not only sloughs away rough skin textures but also tightens, tones and enlivens the senses with its heady scent of coffee and coconut.
After scrubbing, do blast skin with cold water just before stepping out of the shower to ensure all pores are closed, reducing chances of getting them blocked.
Do use a body moisturiser before tanning, but don’t use any with oils in them as this will stop the tan from developing properly. Alba Botanica Hawaiian Papaya Mango Body Cream is perfect for a bit of exotic skin indulgence. (If you’re getting a professional spray tan, avoid moisturising altogether – it will stop the spray from sticking properly).
Once you’re prepped and ready, it’s time to choose which type of tanning formula is right for you. There are so many on the market – mousses, oils, creams, sprays – that choosing can be a daunting task! Choice is mostly made on personal preference and how much time you have.
Mousses tend to dry a lot quicker and can be easier to apply
Oils and lotions are more hydrating and better for drier skin types
Gradual tans are great for beginners, as they need layering to create a decent depth of colour
Instant tans are perfect for those who want the glow but none of the commitment – just wash off in the shower to get rid of it
Our favourites are by Eco by Sonya; for a believable bronzed tan, it’s best to stick to brands that know what they’re doing! Eco by Sonya has an internationally acclaimed, award-winning organic range that is not only good for your skin but provides a beautiful, healthy glow. Eco by Sonja is also:
Once you’ve decided, it’s on to application!
Do get a mitt or gloves to protect the palms of your hands from turning an unattractive orange hue. Use long, sweeping motions from bottom up to evenly spread the product onto each part of your body. Don’t try to get too much on at once – if you want a darker shade, layer up after the first coating has dried and developed.
Do mix a small amount of tanning solution into your face moisturiser for a bronzed glow on the face. Make sure to protect your hair line and eyebrows to avoid accidentally colouring them. Use whatever is left over on the back of the hands and tops of the feet for a natural, believable colour. Don’t forget fingers and toes!
To maintain your tan, do moisturise regularly and exfoliate gently to guarantee an even fade.