For most of us Latinas, tanning really isn't an issue. If we weren't already blessed with naturally tan skin (or darker), we can usually tan without that much effort. But you should probably know by now that having a little extra melanin in your skin won't necessarily ward off your chances of contracting skin cancer. Which is why I LOVE self-tanners.
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For years I thought self-tanners weren't even an option for me. I have a tan/caramel-y skin tone, so I never saw the need for them. That is, until I reluctantly tried a spray tan last summer that left my body super bronzy and even. I loved it and luckily I don't have to hit up another spa to get the same results. There are a ton of self-tanners out there that definitely get the job done. But before you run to your local beauty department store, remember that with self-tanning comes prepping and maintenance. Check out my guide below to get you the best summer tan without the sun damage!
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Shower
Make sure you shower and shave a few hours before applying your self-tanner. Use a body polish, like Bliss Spa Lemon and Sage Body Scrub ($36), to exfoliate and smooth your skin’s surface, this will help the color to go on evenly.
Moisturize
Rub a hydrating lotion all over your body, especially on those very dry areas, like knees, elbows, and feet. Not moisturizing can leave patches of uneven spotting. But be careful not to use an oil-based formula that can prevent the self-tanner from fully penetrating. I like Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion ($10).
Avoid certain products
Before applying self-tanner, avoid putting on any deodorant, body spray, or perfume which can later lead to discoloration. You want to start off completely bare.
Find your perfect formula
If you’re self-tanning for the first time, you might want to avoid sprays and instead look for formula that contains dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a colorless sugar that interacts with skin to darken it. It’s easier to apply and leaves skin looking even. Try Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel ($35).
Get some help
For DHA tanners, use sponge-applicator pads to help evenly apply the color to those super hard-to-reach areas like your back. Check out Xen Tan’s Hard to Reach Applicator ($18).
Maintain
Keep your tan from fading by applying a tan enhancing product throughout the week. I like St. Tropez Prep & Maintain Tan Enhancing Moisturizer ($18).
Remove
If after your first attempt at self-tanning you wind up with streaks, don’t stress! Just smooth on some baby oil, like Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Oil ($6), to help remove the color and follow with an exfoliating body scrub.
