I’m a self-tanning expert – my tips to get even color and avoid ‘dotting,’ don’t miss one of the most underrated steps
A TANNING expert has revealed the underrated step that should be taken for smooth, streak-free color.
Rosie Greenhalgh shared her must-try tips for the perfect complexion when using self-tanners.
Greenhalgh is a tanning expert and founder of the UK-based skin prep company Rose & Caramel.
Speaking to The U.S. Sun, she shared little-known secrets for achieving the perfect glow at home.
PERFECT PREPARATION
Greenhalgh said preparing the skin is just as important as the application of the product when it comes to tanning.
“Your tan will only look as good as the skin it is applied to, so always start by making sure it is in the best condition possible,” she said.
“This means regularly exfoliating and moisturizing, as well as drinking plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.”
She said any old self-tan needs to be removed at least one day before applying a new tan.
Shaving and waxing must also be done well in advance.
“Hair removal should be done at least 24 hours before to allow your pores to close and avoid any ‘dotting’ on the skin,” she said.
“Black dots are a self-tanner’s nightmare and are caused by the tan sitting in open pores and creating the so-called ‘strawberry legs’ effect.
“Similarly, dots can also appear if you’ve had a hot shower and then immediately applied self-tan afterward.
“Instead, have a cold rinse before you get out to help close pores and reduce the chances of them getting clogged with self-tan formula.”
She revealed that “dotting” can also be avoided by using a clear tanning mousse underneath a dark mousse.
Rose & Caramel Clear Golden Tanning Foam is currently reduced from $26 to just $13.
PRO TIP
Greenhalgh revealed there’s an additional step that should be taken on the day the tan is applied for best results.
“One of the most underrated steps in preparing your skin for self-tan is dry body brushing,” she said.
“Immediately before application, use a dry body brush to gently exfoliate the skin, concentrating on hard-to-tan areas such as the chest and shins.
“This will help to remove any excess oils and dead skin cells that will otherwise get in the way of a smooth, even development.
“After you apply your tan, you can also use your mitt to lightly pat a little extra onto these areas too.”
CLEVER COVERAGE
Hands, wrists, elbows, knees, and feet are the “biggest tell-tale” signs of a fake tan.
Greenhalgh said an oil-free moisturizer should be applied to these areas of the skin because they are prone to going darker than the rest of the body.
“Always remember, less is more when it comes to the hands and feet, use any excess product from the mitt and make sure to blend, blend, blend,” she said.
“To avoid any harsh lines, buff in between your fingers and toes with a blending brush.”
A circular motion should be used when applying self-tan to avoid any streaking.
For a long-lasting, even color, make sure to use oil-free body care to enhance your tan and prevent fading.
Greenhalgh recommended using a mitt to avoid staining hands and get even coverage.
“Be sure to use a clean mitt,” she said. “They can often get loaded with old products if they are not washed every time, leading to an uneven finish.
“Start with your legs, working your way from your thighs down to your ankle.
“Then apply to your stomach, working up to your chest and arms.
“Make sure you have enough product on the mitt to provide a full, even coverage. Too little can cause streaking.
“If you’re after a darker tan, apply one full body layer and wait 30 minutes for your tan to set before reapplying another layer.”
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FLAWLESS FINISH
Greenhalgh said mitts should be left to air dry after applying self-tan as the protective layer inside will be affected if placed in a tumble dryer.
She warned that oil should be avoided on the body to keep the tan intact.
“Most self-tan formulas are broken down with heavy, oily products,” she said
“So, for a long-lasting, even color, make sure to use oil-free body care to enhance your tan and prevent fading.
“This includes bath and shower gels.”