Probably one of the most frequently asked questions y’all ask is what I use to self-tan and how I maintain it! I naturally have very fair skin and have just always loved giving it a little extra glow and color. So, because of that self tanning is my JAM. Let’s chat all about my tanning routine!
PREP:
First things first, before you ever apply any kind of self tanner/go get a spray tan, you have to make sure your skin is prepped and in the best shape it can be to hold onto that optimal color! Exfoliate, Exfoliate, EXFOLIATE! Did I mention you should exfoliate thoroughly? My skin is very dry so this part is probably the most important for me. I love this exfoliating scrub and this dry brush. I first use the dry brush from head to toe (except my face) to remove any dry/dead skin cells sitting on the surface. Next, I will use my exfoliating scrub all over, really focusing on my arms and legs, since those areas seem to hold onto leftover tan the most for me. And then of course don’t forget to shave! I recommend doing all of this the night or day before, or it could sting a bit when you are applying self tanner.
TAN:
Over the years, I have tried every tanning product under the sun– the good, the bad, and the terrible. For every day tan, I apply tanner at home myself. I definitely think mousse and lotion based tanners work best (at least for me!).This mousse tanner is my absolute favorite in shade Dark Tan and this lotion is my favorite in Dark as well! I have found to hold onto my tan for a longer amount of time, the darker I tan initially the longer it will hold. Another a big factor in how your tan applies is what you use to apply it with! I have tried all the mitts that the tanners come with and ultimately this tanning mitt is the best + you can wash it with your laundry! My biggest application tip is to apply in circles and less is more. You can always add more tanner to the mitt to apply. Also, really make sure you pay attention to the tricky spots, such as the ankles and elbows.
For special occasions, I prefer to go get a spray tan at a tanning salon. When I go to a salon, I ask for a double spray (two medium/ dark sessions) with a Venetian undertone in the Versa Spa! The undertone is KEY in getting the right color that you want for your tan! Venetian has a bit of a purple undertone to it which makes your tan appear much more rich and sun kissed. I typically get a spray tan at the salon once a week and touch my tan up throughout the week at home.
In regards to my face, I try to keep a lot of products off of it because I do have extremely sensitive skin. The only product I have found that I truly love to use on my face/has not broken me out are these natural tanning drops. I personally use the shade dark, because it always blends best with my tan! I use them about 2-3 times per week.
The other ‘tanning’ related product that I like to use to complete my tan is this blurring lotion. The lotion is essentially like makeup for your skin– it helps blur imperfections and also provides a bit of color as well. This product was my love when I was pregnant, because my legs were pretty much the only thing showing most of the time! I still use this product to this day for special occasions, photoshoots, etc.
For any other questions regarding my tanning routine, feel free to leave below in the comments!
