Sunless Tanning Lotion – How To Apply A Sunless Tanning Product Perfectly
In part 1 of this 2 part series, we uncovered the reasons why sunless tanners can leave you with streaks and blotchy skin. We also outlined specific and simple steps to take to avoid these two potential problems.
Now, let’s talk about how to apply your sunless lotion step by step for the best application you’ve ever had. Step by step, how complicated is sunless tanning anyway? Applying a sunless lotion is not rocket science by any means and prepping your skin before hand goes a long way in ensuring a great looking tan. With a few simple techniques, you’ll be a quiz in no time.
To better understand why exfoliation is so important before and in between sunless applications, we first must understand exactly how a sunless tanner works whether it is a spray or lotion.
Sunless tanning lotions and sprays are most effective when they contain a very special ingredient called dihydroxyacetone or DHA for short. DHA is a form of colorless sugar that interacts with the skin cells located on the most outer layer of the body. This most outer layer is where all of the dead skin cells are. (are you seeing a connection here?)
So basically, DHA interacts with the skin cells on your skin’s surface to create your sunless tan. In order to have a good foundation for the sunless tanner to have the best effect, you need to get rid of all those loose, flaking cells revealing a smoother surface that will have an immediate effect on how well your sunless tan looks and how long it lasts. Depending on your own skin’s rate of sloughing off the dead cells, your sunless tan will last somewhere between 3 to 7 days from the initial application.
Now on to our step by step guide. First up? Exfoliation!
Step 1: Exfoliation - Prepping the skin
Use a good exfoliation soap or sugar scrub (my personal favorite) over the entire body (or the part you would like to tan) in the bath or shower to remove dead skin cells. As we have already discussed, this is essential for sunless tanners to work properly. It’s hard for a product to tan skin that is in the processing of flaking off. Exfoliation will also help soften the skin so that the tanning application is smoother (give extra attention to the knees, elbows, ankles, and tops of hands & feet). Use approximately 2 to 4 times per week to keep the dead cells removed as you CONTINUE with Step 2.
Step 2 is the actual application process. It may read a bit long, but once you understand the process, you will no longer need instructions and will be a pro sunless tanner in no time. The assumption here is that you are using a product that contains a color guide so that you can see where you are applying the product.
Step 2: Application - Sunless Tanning Lotion, Spray or Mousse
A sunless tanner can be applied at any time of the day. P.M. application is usually recommend (to start with) to achieve the maximum benefits from the product. Use an applicator (or your hands) and smooth over entire body while bending knees and elbows and glazing lightly over hands and feet. (if you apply using your bare hands, be sure to wash thoroughly - immediately after use because your palms are very porous and will absorb the product quickly)
Moisten the applicator with water and blot out excess water with a cloth if need be. Then apply the tanner to the applicator (or body part) and smooth out almost like you are painting. Start in the center of your shin and work around to your calf in upward strokes (from just above your ankle toward your knee) until all of the product is blended together with your skin. Then taper remaining lightly over your foot. If there are any spots that look wet, use your applicator to blend them in until it is all absorbed. All areas should be blended well into one solid color. Apply additional product to any lighter areas (which are probably missed spots) and blend in any darker areas (which are probably spots with too much product in one area).
Next, move to your thigh. Apply (in the same way as above) to the front and back of your thigh area. Then taper remaining lightly over the front and back of your knee (while bending) - tapering further into the top of your calf. Use these same tips on whatever body part you would like to tan.
Use the tanner approximately 2 to 5 consecutive nights the first week to build your own custom sunless tan. Thereafter, simply use the tanner for maintenance (1-3 times per week or as desired). Adjust the application amounts and frequency according to your preference.
NOTE: When showering the following morning, you will notice a small amount of coloration in the water - you are not washing away your tan. This color pigment is a great tool used to guide the product on in a “streak-free” manner. For most products on the market, the color guide is not a stain or dye and is removable when washed. If you notice a larger amount of coloration in the water when you shower, you are probably putting on too thick of a coat at one time. Not a problem, but it works better when thin coats are applied. Since the guide coat is removable, some may rub off onto your sheets at night. This can be avoided by wearing loose pajamas when going to bed. Don’t wash off the color guide until the following morning.
Don’t forget to apply a moisturizing body lotion in between applications to extend the life of your tan. (As recommended in Part 1, a shea butter or cocoa butter lotion is best or any you might have handy… provided it does not contain alpha hydroxy acid)
Additional tips for your Feet and Hands:
The same suggestions apply for the feet and the hands. Apply approximately one small drop to the moistened applicator. Start in the center of the top of your hand or foot and apply the product (with the applicator or hand) in a circular motion until just about all of the product is absorbed in the center. Then use the applicator (or hand) and taper the edges of the product down and around the fingers and toes. Avoid applying large amounts of the product directly to the fingers and toes.
Additional tips for your Face:
Exfoliate gently for best results. Apply morning or night after bathing or cleansing your face. Dampen a flocked facial sponge with a little water and apply the product directly onto it (or you may use your finger tips). Blend in clockwise motions to ensure absorption. Taper the edges of the product outward toward your hair line and ears. Avoid applying a thick coat around the hair line. It will look more natural when the product is applied very lightly around the hair line, ears, neck etc. Apply a small amount at first to see how dark your tan will be.
Well there you have it. Long but thorough. Learn these simply techniques and you will be a pro in no time. So go ahead, step into the world of sunless tanning. You’ll be glad you did. You will truly get the best of both worlds. A great looking tan without the damage that the Sun or tanning beds can cause.
Lynn Hopkins is co-founder of Spa Sentiments, owner and distributor of MyTan Sunless Lotion - designed for the face and body. MyTan contains a special, water soluble “color guide” to help eliminate streaking and provide even application. Learn more about MyTan, sugar scrubs and other professional spa treatments you can use at home by visiting Spa Sentiments online: www.spasentiments.com