Self tanning tips from start to finish

Step 1: Preparation
If something’s worth doing then it’s worth doing well, and before even a hint of tan can be applied you must make sure that your skin is primed and ready to receive the colour. Exfoliating is the key to an even application, removing areas of dry skin to leave behind a smooth even surface. A good body scrub will work brilliantly, see our 5 of the best for inspiration, or why not try using a textured mitt or body brush. This will stimulate the circulation and exfoliate the skin; for best results use on dry skin, working in short, sharp strokes towards the heart.

Once scrubbed, the skin will need moisturising. Pay particular attention to areas prone to dryness such as the elbows and knees; tanning products can collect on dry patches of skin which can lead to to a patchy colour. Allow your moisturiser to sink in completely before reaching for the tan, this will avoid streaks and diluted colour.
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Step 2: Application
First of all it’s important to choose the correct type of self tan for your skin type and you should choose your colour carefully. As a general rule if you are looking to achieve a light tan tone on naturally pale skin, a gradual tanner is the perfect choice as the colour is subtle but can be built up over a few days. Several light layers, applied every few days, will result in longer lasting colour that fades evenly.

Gradual tanners are easy to apply, simply rub the product in smooth strokes over the skin and allow up to 24 hours for the colour to develop. For a more substantial colour on naturally darker skin try a self tan mousse or lotion. For either of these apply, in circular motions from the feet up, with a pair of latex gloves to avoid orange palms and try covering toes and eyebrows with a coat of Vaseline to keep the colour out of your cuticles. Once the colour has been applied use a buffing mitt to take off any excess product; this will also ensure that the colour is even. Keep a packet of baby wipes handy for correcting any mistakes.
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Tip: Gradual tanners make fantastic tan extenders for both fake and real sun tans as they provide all the moisture your skin needs as well as a hint of colour.

Step 3: Maintaining
Once you have a colour you are happy with you’ll want it to last for as long as possible. Moisturising the skin is important for extending the life of a tan as you are preventing the top layer of skin from becoming dry and flaky. Use an oil-free moisturiser in the mornings and then every 2-3 days use a gentle exfoliator to combat any dryness. Exfoliating the skin also prepares it for a top up of colour which can be applied once a week for as long as you would like the colour to last. You may want to avoid swimming pools after applying any type of self tan as the chlorine can strip the colour, as can a long bubble bath so showers it is, and try to pat yourself dry afterwards rather than rigorous rubbing. Remember that self tan only colours the top layer of skin so try to preserve this at all costs.
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