Self Tanning Tips

Self-tanning, also known as sunless tanning, refers to applying chemical based creams, lotions and sprays to attain an effect similar to that resulting from a natural suntan. Self-tanning arose in response to the relation of prolonged exposure to sun with skin cancer and wrinkles. Self-tanners contain a compound called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA reacts with the amino groups and proteins present in the top layer of the skin, and causes the skin to tan as it would under the sun. Knowing the following suntanning tips may help you to understand why despite having the best product in the market, you can't get the tan you want.

Sunless Tanning Tips

• Before applying any self-tanning cream or lotion one must exfoliate the skin. This removes any dead skin cells and excess body oils that may hinder proper absorption of the self-tanning product. Try using a mild soap as this will maintain the pH of the skin.
• Follow exfoliation with moisturizing the body with a good water-based moisturizer. Any oil-based moisturizer should be avoided as the oil will interfere with the absorption of the self-tanner into the skin.
• One should remember that perspiration will cause uneven tanning. Hence, at any point of a self-tanning session, hot and stuffy rooms must be avoided.
• It is very important to buy the right shade of self-tanning lotion or cream according to one's natural complexion and skin type.
• Before using the self-tanner, the bottle must be shaken well. This is to allow the ingredients to mix evenly within the whole solution, so that the solution in the higher levels in the bottle produces the same effect as that at the bottom.
• Use a pair of gloves while applying a self-tanning product to avoid the palms getting bronzed. If you do not wish to wear gloves, wash hands frequently.
• Whether one is using a gel, lotion or spray, the best technique to apply a self-tanning product is to rub it on the skin in a circular motion. Avoid rubbing it in up and down strokes.
• Always apply the lotion or the spray in the amount specified on the instructions of the tanning product. Applying more of it may cause the skin to darken more than you want , while using insufficient amounts may not bring about the desired tan.
• It is very important not to apply the self-tanning product directly on the elbows and the knees. Instead one must apply the solution in nearby areas and then with a moist tissue the tanner should be spread from these areas over to the knees and elbows.
• Always be careful about the face and neck. These areas get tanned very easily. So it is best to use the self-tanners sparingly in these areas. Extra care has to be taken of the hairline. The tanning should be done so that the color of the forehead seems to blend into the hair along the hairline.
• What you wear determines how much area of your body gets tanned. Cover the area you do not want to tan. It is always advisable to wear tight fitting clothes so that the self-tanning cream or lotion does not seep under the dress you are wearing. Wear a shower cap to keep the sun tanning product out of your hair.
• After having applied the tanning cream or lotion wait for 15 minutes. Do not do any work and give some time for the self-tanning product you are using to dry.
• For the tan to last longer, avoid water for another 4-6 hours. This also includes perspiration. The tan will darken by a period of 24 hours giving you a nice golden bronze complexion. Using a moisturizer will also help the tan to last longer.
• It is best to remain indoors when doing self-tanning, as these products do not protect the skin from sunburns.

A glowing golden brown tan is every one's dream. Having the right self-tanning product and having the correct information, like how and when to apply the tanning product, is all that is required to have that perfect tan.