How to Apply Sunless Tanner
Applying Sunless Tanning Products Without Streaks
The following fool-proof steps make applying sunless tanning products easy and worry-free.
Sunless tanning products are a wonderful alternative to the damaging rays of the sun, but worries of streaks and uneven application make using these products intimidating. By following just a few simple steps and taking your time, you too, can have the perfect sun-kissed glow without the side effects of the sun.
Step One - Exfoliate the Body
Your body is constantly working to shed dry, dead skin cells. But some of them linger, and they can cause body care products to absorb at different rates throughout the body. While you may not notice it with your everyday lotions, the coloring agent in sunless tanning will make it obvious. This is what causes patchy color results from sunless tanning products. To avoid this, always exfoliate your body first.
Using a body scrub, stand in the shower without turning on any water. Apply the scrub to your dry skin and massage over the entire body. Add a little water if it feels too abrasive. Then, rinse off and shower as usual. The sloughing agents in the scrub remove the dead skin cells and smooth the surface of your skin.
Step Two - Applying the Sunless Tanning Product
While it is important to always follow the manufacturer's instructions, the essential ingredients for a successful sunless tanning application remain the same: gloves, time, and patience. Rushing through the application only creates a recipe for streaks and splotches.
Dry your skin completely before application. Then, using a regular body lotion, apply a small amount to the knees, elbows, and ankles. These areas tend to turn darker than other areas, and are typically where streaks can be found. By absorbing a regular lotion first, these areas won't absorb an overdose of sunless tanner, and as a result, the appearance will blend better with the rest of your body and lessen the risk of noticeable streaks.
Wearing gloves, begin to apply the sunless tanning product. Work in one small area at a time. For instance, knee to ankle of one leg, then knee to ankle of the other. Do not be afraid of over-rubbing the product. You want to make sure that you have completely massaged the tanning agent into the skin.
Step Three - Hands and Feet
When working around the ankles and wrists, use a lighter touch, almost as if you are "brushing off" the tops of the hands and feet. Avoid applying the product to areas that would not normally tan from the sun: in between fingers and toes, and the palms of the hands and feet.
After you remove the gloves, apply a small amount of tanning lotion to a cotton ball. Lightly apply the product to the tops of each hand, using a clean cotton ball to blend the product softly and evenly.
Step Four - Waiting
One of the most crucial steps involves no work at all - waiting for the tanner to dry. By following the manufacturer's advice, or waiting at least 15 minutes, you avoid ruining your tanning application by creating smears with your clothing. This also prevents any unwanted discoloration of your clothes.
Once you've dried off, you're ready to go! The color will develop slowly over the course of a few hours, and you can reapply as often as needed to deepen your shade. Remember, sunless tanners do not provide protection from the sun, and should always be used in conjunction with a sunscreen product.
You can find more information on how to choose a sunless tanner here.
