Michal Cohen, (KickStart Beauty) is back giving us her superb expertise on how to get he “PERFECT” tan (note that I said perfect– because her tips are flawless) !!
Check out her tips and print this post out and take it with you shopping!!
Summer is just around the corner and its time to get your tan on. Check out my details on how you can transform yourself into the bronze sun goddess that you truly are.
For a streak-free tan:
Exfoliate!
Your skin needs to be in its best shape prior to applying self tanner, especially if you want to achieve an even application. By exfoliating the skin, you are providing yourself with an even “canvas” prior to applying the self tanner.
Moisturize!
The best way to prep your skin for application is to moisturize! Protein in dead skin cells will react to the self tanner formula and create a splotchy or streaky look. Be sure to stay on top of the driest parts of your body especially your toes, feet, knuckles and knees. After application, it’s important to moisturize at least twice a day. This will help prolong the effects of a self tanner for up to 3-4 days and a week for spray-tans!
Take a Seat!
Wait one hour between moisturizing and applying the self tan formula so that your body can return to its natural temperature. The skin will easily absorb the formula now that it’s been properly prepped.
Choose your Shade! Choose a formula that’s 1 shade darker than your skin. If you haven’t achieved the shade you like, feel free to apply a second coat. Make sure to apply the formula in a well-lit area so you can catch any unwanted mistakes!
Make it Easy!
If you’re lacking expertise when applying a self tanner, try a tinted formula to trace your steps. Not only can you see where you’re applying it, but there are no streaks! There is a huge plus of walking out with an instant bronze hue!
Application!
So you’re finally ready to go. Start by warming the product in your hand and massage into your skin with smooth even strokes.
Attention!
It’s not uncommon to miss a spot in your application. Don’t forget the back of your neck, sides of your waist, underarms, inner thighs, back of knees, feet and of course in between the goes (which can be the biggest giveaway).
Keep application lighter where you skin is the thickest such as: elbows, knees, toes, fingers and knuckles. If you find that some spots are a little darker than you expected, use a damp cotton cloth (or some extra moisturizer) to dilute the formula from penetrating the skin.
Wash your Hands!
To prevent that “white glove” look, wash your hands and then lightly swipe your hands over your body to pick up some of the formula.
In a rush?
Set your blow dryer on cool to speed up the drying process. Or try a gel formula which will absorb faster into the skin.
Keep it Up!
Probably the best tip you can have: self tanner or even a spray tan is best applied at night. The tanner takes about 3-4 hours to show up, but 9-12 hours will give you the maximum development. Do not exfoliate or shave after application, doing so will promote streaking.
Take it easy!
You should apply your self tanner when you are relaxed to prevent any perspiration which can result in streaking on the skin. After you’ve applied the formula, or just had your tan sprayed, be sure to wear loose dark clothing to let your body absorb the formula and prevent any staining of clothes.
Don’t worry!
Just like you, I’ve always wondered if self tanners were safe for the skin. How do they last so long? I’ve got the answer…self tanners contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA) which is a sugar-based chemical that reacts safely with skins amino acids to produce a darkened color.
Try a Tinted Self Tan Formula:
Clarins Delicious Self Tanning Cream, $40
Lancome Flash Bronzer Self-Tan for Legs, $30
Completely Bare Model Tan for the Face, $23
Victoria’s Secret Bare Bronze Gleaming Self-Tan Body Tint, $18
Try a Spray Self Tan Formula:
Mystic Tan Sunless Tanning Spray Face + Body, $38
Bliss A Tan For All Seasons, $36
L’Oreal Paris Sublime Glow Moisturizing Microfine Mist, $10
Coppertone Sunless Tanning Moisture Mist Tan Continuous Spray, $10
A great big hug of appreciation to Michal Cohen for her great tips on self-tanning. Hmmm, I wonder if she makes housecalls?
If you need advice or need a make-up artist check out KickStartBeauty.com for Michal Cohen. She’s fabulous!!
Now go out there and get bronzed and beautiful. Realize your makeup might need to be a bit bolder and don’t forget to really use some fab mascara too!
Stevie Wilson
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