Today I would like to give you my tips and how to self-tan at home and get professional-looking results. Enjoy these tricks, and product recommendations that will make you look sun-kissed as if you just got back from holidays. Let’s get started…
DO EVERYTHING ELSE FIRST
If you need to get a wax or shave your legs (do it at least one day in advance), get a manicure or touch up your hair color, do it before applying any self-tanner, as those treatments could remove the self-tanner.
EXFOLIATE
The most important thing to do in advance is exfoliate in order to achieve an even self-tan! Self-tanner sinks easily into dry skin, leaving dark patches that look horrible. I use the Aromatherapy Associates Rose Triple Exfoliator for my face and body. Don’t forget too focus on rough spots like the knees, elbows, ankles, and heels.
MOISTURIZE
First of all, let your skin be completely dry after showering. Then I like to moisturize my skin before the application with a light texture (The Reparative Body Lotion). For the rough spots (knees, elbows, and ankles), I dab Crème de la Mer The Moisturizing Cream and rub it well in. For the face, I mix it with self-tan drops. You will be amazed how well the self-tan application works afterwards. Say goodbye to those orange tones …
For my Swiss readers, don’t forget my special promo code VSASANDRALAMER, that is only valid until May 30, 2021. You will receive CHF 40 off any purchase of minimum CHF 200. This code is a one time use and not combinable with other offers or codes. It works only in the Swiss La Mer website. Just use vsasandralamer at checkout. It will be applied automatically.
PICK YOUR SELF-TANNER
After La Mer discontinued their amazing self-tan lotion (still furious about this), I have been looking for something equally easy to use. My search ended when I tried TAN-LUXE
for the first time. The brand has seriously changed the tanning game with its product range. It is all about personalization as their cult self-tan drops can be added to your favorite skincare. Developed by a team of chemists at its lab, the formulas are odorless and enriched with organic active complexes to create the most natural sun-kissed glow. I use them daily to build my desired tan tone. The revolutionary dropper system allows for total control; the more you drop, the more you glow!
Customize your self-tan routine (from left to right): The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops (my favorite), The Face Anti-Age Rejuvenating Self-Tan Drops, (both are available for different skin tones), and Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum.
FIRST THE FACE
First thing, I do in the morning, I start by tanning my face because it’s the easiest area to apply self-tanner with your bare hands, especially as the drops can be mixed with your favorite moisturizer. Like this, you can customize the intensity. However, wash your hands immediately to prevent any staining. Don’t forget to tan everywhere, including under the eyes, over eyelids, on the tips of the ears, on the neck, and even around the back of the ears, which can be seen when long hair is tied back.
You can also customize also your body self-tan routine: Hydra-Mousse Hydrating Self-Tan Mousse (my favorite, no stains on clothes or bedding!), The Water Hydrating Self-Tan Water, (bothe are available for different skin ones), and The Gradual Illuminating Gradual Tan Lotion.
BODY SELF-TAN
Starting the self-tanner application process way down your ankles is probably one of the most important tips to give when it comes to doing your own faux glow. Another great one is to tan the feet with any excess self-tanner from that initial application. Then work your way up the body. Take your time and blend it well. By using the moisturizer on the rough spots, you will see how much easier the application becomes. Wash your hands in between and extensively after the application is finished.
For the lazy ones among you, mix a few drops of The Body Illuminating Self-Tan Drops with your body lotion.
SPOT-MOISTURIZE
Just as moisturizer is important for priming the skin for self-tanner, it can help perfect the results after you’re done applying it. Apply your moisturizer (Crème de la Mer The Moisturizing Cream) over the tan from the palm up to the crease in the wrist and over the heel and up to the crease to finish.
CLEAN UP MISTAKES
Self-tanner mistakes happen, but there’s no need to start from scratch when they do. Use Nannette de Gaspé’s Treating & Cleansing Facial Cloths (you can also use baby wipes) for quick clean-ups during the application process. They can also help you to clear your nails and cuticles of self-tanner.
For dark streaks and patches, you can start exfoliating them off during your first shower after with circular motions on wet skin to help lift the color.
NO TIME TO SELF-TAN
No time to self-tan? Here is your savior! Perfect for parties and events, TAN-LUXE’s Instant Hero
is the secret to flawless, sun-kissed skin in seconds. This quick-drying formula delivers a full-coverage tan that can be washed off at the end of the night. The light-reflecting nanoparticles and micro-pigments blur imperfections like redness, cellulite and spider veins, while Aloe Vera smooths and hydrates.
MAINTAIN YOUR GLOW
After you achieve the flawless, sunless tan you sought, certain measures can be taken to prolong it. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser, make sure your skin, also on your body, is always well moisturized, and avoid using retinols and acne treatments, which can dissolve color on your face. This will guarantee a flawless, seamless, professional result every time.
LoL, Sandra
Photos: Courtesy of the Brands, © Sandra Bauknecht
DISCLOSURE: All products featured on Sandra’s Closet are independently selected by my humble self. However, when you buy something through the retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
One of the best exfoliators I know: The Renewal Oil Exfoliator by LA MER.
