Safe Sun: Sunless Tanners

By now we've all heard about the dangers of excessive sun & UV exposure. Melanoma is a serious threat to everyone's health. Thankfully you can still have your golden tan without baking in the sun! (Or worse, in a tanning bed!)
Most self-tanners contain an ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA is a colourless sugar that interacts with the skin cells located on the surface of the skin. As the sugar interacts with these cells, a colour change occurs. This change in colour resembles a natural tan & usually lasts about 5-7 days from the initial application.

1. Pick

First, decide which type of self-tanner is best for you. A gradual self-tanner is perfect for those who want to slowly build the intensity of their tan, and who don't mind having to reapply a few days in a row. An "instant" self-tanner is great if you need a deep, bronzed glow - FAST! (Well, in 6-8 hours) Next, you'll need to choose which texture to use. If you have dry skin, stick with a lotion or cream. Skin types with a tendency to break out should use a gel or mousse formula. 

2. Prepare 

Exfoliate the skin regularly before starting a self-tanning regimen. Use either an exfoliating body scrub on an exfoliating mitt with regular bodywash in the shower. This will remove any dead skin cells from the surface of the skin and will give you a smoother, more even tan. It is best to shave your legs the morning before as self-tanners tend to settle into open hair follicles - resulting in spotted legs. Make sure that your skin is completely dry before applying your tanner. Any moisture left on the skin will result in an uneven and blotchy tan.

3. Apply

I like to apply my self-tanner in the evening so it has time to develop while I sleep. Start by applying the prodcut to your legs and work your way up the rest of your body. Use long, even strokes and keep your fingers pressed firmly together to avoid streaks. Apply sparingly around the ankles, knees, & elbows as these areas tend to be drier & will soak up more product. Be sure to BLEND well. Do not apply to the soles of the feet. Lightly blend whatever product is left on your legs down to the tops of your feet. 

Apply to your face, avoiding your eyebrows & hairline. Blend down to your neck & chest. Thoroughly wash hands, concentrating on the palms & in between the fingers. To avoid that telltale line between your wrist & hand, apply a very small (tiny! a lot less than you think you need) amount to one hand & rub the backs of both hands together. Lightly blend into the wrists. 

4. Extend

Allow to dry completely before getting dressed. Avoid wearing light coloured clothing for at least 4 hours. Do not shower, swim, etc. for at least 4-6 hours after application. In order to extend the life of your tan, try not to aggressively exfoliate the skin until you're ready for your next application. Keep shaving to a minimum & use an ultra-hydrating lotion daily. Reapply every 3 days to maintain your tan.

Happy Tanning!! :)

xoxo,