Sexy Sunless Tan Made Easy3 Comments

White, porcelain skin looks beautiful on some people. On others (myself included), it just looks pasty and unattractive, especially in a swimsuit. If you are in the latter category and prefer the look of a sun-kissed glow without the sun’s scary side-effects, tune in for some of this summer’s top products (for any budget) and simple self-tanning tips.

Here are the best options for Sunless Color:

Spray Tan
The average salon spray tan can cost around $20-$60 per session. Depending on your preference, there are the automatic stand-up machines that have timed tan sprayers, or you can opt for the more precise and generally costlier professional airbrush tan. Both options allow you to choose your shade of preference. The average spray tan lasts about 5-10 days.

Do-it-yourself
Foams, lotions, gels, bronzers, wipes, sprays… There are so many self-tanning options it may be hard to pick just one. But, depending on your application preference, they all offer something different and they are generally more convenient and inexpensive than a salon spray tan.

Clarins Self-Tanning Instant Gel $33, was voted the top self-tanner of 2010 in Allure’s Reader’s Choice Beauty Awards. This tanning favorite is a quick-drying gel which is great for those with quick hands, but it is more likely to leave streaks than a lotion.

Lotions, like Jergens Natural Glow $9, are generally easier for beginners to create a natural looking bronze shade, but takes longer to dry and has a stronger scent to it.

If you’re running short on time and need a quick, mess-free tan, tanning wipes like Loreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Towelettes $10, may become your best friend.

Fool-Proof Bronzing:
Don’t be intimated, even if you’ve had an orange or streaky experience before. Try, try again my pale friend! Here are some expert application tips recommended by the St. Tropez Tanning professionals:

1.    Exfoliate regularly.
2.    Wax/Shave no less than 24 hours before you ‘tan.’
3.    Moisturize generously the night before (especially dry areas like hands, elbows, knees, ankles and feet).
4.    To keep palms tan free, try using latex gloves while applying. Or you can use hand sanitizer or wipes.
5.    When applying the tanner, make sure to cover all areas of body. It will only be splotchy if you miss spots.
6.    Gently smooth the tanner on skin, different sections at a time.
7.    Let the product dry and do its work. (May take a few hours for the tan to fully set in).

My own tip: If for some reason your tan turns out splotchy or too dark in spots, try using lemon juice and a washcloth to gently rub those areas and remove some of the tanner.

Good Luck and Happy Tanning!

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