How to Properly Apply Self-Tanner
From:
India-Jewel Jackson
57 days 17 hours 19 minutes ago
Two thumbs up to everyone who opts for a self-tanner over baking outside in the sun, but if your faux tan ends up with embarrassing streaks and uneven skin coloring, chances are you won't be too inclined to show it off. Luckily, renowned Manhattan skin pathologist & dermatologist, Dr. Craig Austin shares tips for an easy, even at-home self-tanning session. Take notes on how to properly get a gorgeous faux glow!
First, make sure you exfoliate thoroughly. Since self tanner doesn't penetrate the skin deeply, you want to make sure to remove dead cells from the surface of the skin. The more of the top layer you scrub off, the better. Some tanners come with an exfoliator; if your's doesn't, just use a loofah or a scrub. Pay special attention to the knees and elbows, as the cornified layer of skin is very thick in these areas. Hands and feet are important to exfoliate too, but are often overlooked. For these areas, Dr. Austin recommends
AB hands ($95) and
AB happy feet ($95) from his AB Skincare line. The glycolic acid treatment pads thoroughly exfoliate and prep these areas prior to applying self-tanner.
When applying self tanner, make sure you apply it evenly. The active ingredient, dihydroacetone (DHA), reacts with cells to pigment the top layer of skin, which is why the pre-tan exfoliation routing is so important. Apply only a thin layer to elbows and knees. Some tanners are applied with towelettes, which helps the user apply tanner evenly. Since tanner tends to dye the palms of hands, you might want to wear gloves while applying tanner.
It's important to moisturize the skin after tanning.The more you moisturize, the longer your tan will last. Don't moisturize right away though; if you apply self tanner at night, then beginning your moisturizing regimen the following day. Avoid exercise, steam baths, and saunas right after tanning, as sweat will cause self tanner to run off the skin. You should also wait to dress until tanner is dry, and then avoid tight clothes immediately after applying tanner, as it can cause your tan to streak. Tanner should last for about 3 days; re-apply as needed to maintain tan.
Remember, self tanner won't protect you from the sun.Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen
every time you go outside!
Dr. Craig Austin, M.D.
