How to apply fake tan like a pro

Self-tan is a difficult thing to master, but done well has a great effect. It can make you look thinner, younger and more glowing, so a must-have in our bathroom cupboards. Some of the best tips come from GettheGloss, who have them here…

FAKE TAN TIP 1: SCRUB UP

Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate! This will remove dead skin cells and create a smooth and uniform surface on the skin for the tan to be applied to, which will, in turn, result in an even golden colour. Steer clear of exfoliators that contain oils, as these will only act as a film on the skin and while wonderful for locking in moisture, isn’t ideal for tanning.

For maximum exfoliation, use exfoliating gloves, working the scrub in circular and lengthways motions. Pay extra special attention to your elbows, knees and décolletage. An easy-to-use glove that can be used in the shower to remove dead cells and quickly reveal smooth skin underneath, it’s the once a week exfoliating treat for days when a loofah alone won’t do.

FAKE TAN TIP 2: AVOID WAXING WOES

Any hair removal should be carried out 24 hours prior to tanning,” advises Jules. “This is done to ensure the skin has calmed and any cuts have healed. Do not get waxed immediately after a spray tan – it defeats the whole point as the wax will whip off the tan in no time!

FAKE TAN TIP 3: BE MOISTURISER SAVVY

On the day of your tan application, be it at-home or in a salon, don’t moisturise your body or wear deodorant or perfume. Some tanners tell you not to moisturise your face, I personally can’t do it – I feel like my skin will crack! Just don’t use a facial oil on the morning of tanning.

FAKE TAN TIP 4: WATER WORKS

If you’re tanning at home and shower just before your tan application, blast your skin with cold water before you get out. It might wake you up a little yes, but it will also shrink all of your pores and therefore reduce the chance of them getting blocked.

FAKE TAN TIP 5: SAY HELLO VERA

Moisturise your hands, elbows, knees and feet as well as your nails with an aloe vera based moisturiser. If you have fair hair, add a light layer to your hairline and eyebrows to stop them from absorbing tan and changing colour.

One of the best self tanners that we’ve come across, Guinot Autobronzant Visage d’Ete – Summer Radiance Self-Tan for Face is a self-tanning gel cream which gives an even, natural sunkissed look to all skin types. The moisturising active ingredients combined with a youth-renewing effect make Visage d’été the ‘healthy-look’ treatment to be used all year round.