As the seasons shift, the desire for a sun-kissed complexion doesn’t have to wane. You can achieve a healthy glow easily with the help of sunless tanners. These products allow you to bypass harmful UV rays, which can lead to skin damage and premature aging, and offer a controlled, even tan from the comfort of your own home.
Choosing the right sunless tanner can be daunting with the myriad of options available. Whether you prefer lotions, mousses, or sprays, there’s a formulation suited to your skin type and desired level of tan. Some products are designed for a gradual tan that builds over time, while others can provide immediate results for a last-minute event or when you’re short on time.
When it comes to application, achieving a streak-free finish is within reach. Thorough exfoliation and moisturizing are key steps before applying any tanning product to ensure an even canvas. For those hard-to-reach areas and to ensure a seamless application, consider using an application mitt. Additionally, some sunless tanners come with built-in bronzers that give a temporary tint, making it easier to see where you’ve applied the product, reducing the risk of missed spots or patchiness.
Understanding Sunless Tanners
In pursuit of a sun-kissed glow without UV exposure, sunless tanners can provide you with a safe alternative. Selecting the best product and comprehending how they work will set the stage for a radiant look.
Types of Sunless Tanning Products
Sunless tanning products are diverse, including lotions, mousses, and sprays, each suited for different preferences and outcomes. Lotions are hydrating and often preferred for gradual tan build-up, while mousses provide a more immediate bronze and are easier to apply evenly. Spray tans, or manually applied tans offer a salon-quality application, commonly used by professionals like Kerry Spindler at Bespoke Aesthetics Spa in the Greater Boston area. Their precise application ensures an even coverage that mirrors a natural tan.
How Sunless Tanners Work
The active ingredient in most sunless tanners is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a sugar compound that reacts with the amino acids in the dead layer of your skin, resulting in a color change that mimics a tan. This process usually takes a few hours to develop and can last several days. To achieve the best results, it’s crucial to exfoliate before applying sunless tanners and moisturize regularly afterwards, maintaining the tan and ensuring an even fade.
Application Techniques for Best Results
Achieving a sun-kissed glow with sunless tanners relies heavily on correct application techniques. From preparing your skin to ensuring your tan lasts, the following steps are critical to flaunt a flawless tan.
Preparation for Sunless Tanning
To lay the ideal foundation for your sunless tanner, exfoliate your skin. This will remove dead skin cells and create a smooth canvas. It’s especially important to focus on areas like the knees, elbows, and ankles. Kerry Spindler from Bespoke Aesthetics Spa in the Greater Boston area emphasizes the importance of moisturizing these areas post-exfoliation, but ensure it’s done a day ahead to let the lotion fully absorb.
Application Tips
When applying the tanner, start with a small amount on the mitt and apply in sections, using circular motions for even coverage. During application:
- Avoid applying too much product on dry areas like knees and elbows.
- Wear gloves or wash your hands immediately after to prevent staining.
- For a streak-free tan, refer to tips from leading specialists like Kerry Spindler for tailored advice.
Post-Application Care
After application:
- Wait at least 10 minutes before dressing to allow the tanner to dry.
- Wear loose clothing to avoid smudging the tanner.
- Refrain from showering for at least 12 hours to let your tan develop fully. Maintain your tan with daily moisturization and reapply the tanner every few days as needed. Bespoke Aesthetics Spa advocates for ongoing skincare to prolong the effects of your sunless tanner.
Kerry Spindler is a well-recognized aesthetician with more than 30 years of experience in the beauty and fashion industry. Kerry has been featured on high-end media platforms like Fox Health, Telemundo, Weather Channel, etc. Kerry finds joy in making people feel confident with her vast knowledge of the beauty industry. She runs one of the best spas in Boston providing skincare, facial treatments and holistic wellness for a whole-body experience.