The secret to the perfect tan: How to prepare your skin for self-tanner application?
You dream of a natural golden tan all year round? Self-tanner is a great solution! It is what allows you to get the effect of a natural tan without exposure to harmful UV rays. The secret to a beautiful and long-lasting tan? Proper skin preparation for bronzing product application!
Why skin preparation matters?
Self-tanner works only on the outermost layer of the skin – dead skin. This is where the active ingredient (usually DHA) reacts with the amino acids. If the skin is dry, uneven or exfoliated irregularly, the tanning effect may be uneven – streaks, spots or patches will appear. Proper skin preparation increases the chances of a natural and uniform result!
Exfoliation of the epidermis – when, how and with what?
Exfoliation of dead skin cells is the most important step in preparing the skin for self-tanner application. It is best to perform a scrub 24 hours before applying the product – the skin then has time to calm down and rest. You can use a scrub SILKY SMOOTH BODY or equally effective – a body scrubbing glove I gLOVE PEEL.
Smoothing and moisturizing body mask in the form of a 2-in-1 scrub with 3% betaine SILKY SMOOTH BODY exfoliates dead skin, preparing the skin to receive bronzing ingredients. The natural scrub-mask with a rich formula contains 3% betaine, which provides a moisturizing feeling to the skin, and the unique combination of natural exfoliating ingredients works in two ways, perceptibly cleansing and removing keratinized skin cells, so that the skin regains a youthful glow.
The most important active ingredients
- Beet betaine – moisturizes and protects cell membranes from damage, soothes irritated skin.
- Vegetable collagen – is responsible for the healthy appearance of the skin and keeping it in good condition.
- Squalane – has a number of skin care properties: smooths, moisturizes, oxygenates the skin, reduces fine wrinkles and discoloration and acne scars. Softens the skin and seals the intercellular spaces, preventing excessive evaporation of water from the epidermis.
- Jojoba oil – thanks to its structure, it is compatible with epidermal lipids and supports the reconstruction of the hydrolipid barrier.
- Sweet almond oil – forms an occlusive layer that prevents excessive evaporation of water from the surface. As a result, it conditions the skin, softens and smoothens it.
- Vitamin E (Tocopherol) – by stimulating antioxidant processes, it protects the skin from signs of aging and visibly prevents hair damage.
Moisturize and regenerate skin before applying self-tanner
Well-hydrated skin absorbs self-tanner evenly. If the skin is overdried, self-tanner may penetrate deeper in some areas, causing unnatural, darker spots. For a few days before application, it is advisable to take care of regular, light moisturization of the skin, for example, with the help of a moisturizing-regenerating body lotion with lipids LIPID SOLVE BODY.
The most important active ingredients
- Sk Influxe Evolve – ceramide complex, which strengthens the hydrolipid barrier, promotes regeneration and protects the skin from water loss.
- Vitaolis plus – complex, containing coconut oil, flaxseed oil, avocado oil, argan oil, macadamia oil, sunflower oil and olive oil, which regenerate and moisturize the skin.
- Fucocert® – natural polysaccharide with soothing, moisturizing and smoothing properties.
- Squalane – has a number of skin care properties: smooths, moisturizes, oxygenates the skin, reduces fine wrinkles and discoloration and acne scars. Softens the skin and seals the intercellular spaces, preventing excessive evaporation of water from the epidermis.
- Vitamin E (Tocopherol) – by stimulating antioxidant processes, it protects the skin from signs of aging and visibly prevents hair damage.
- Fermented aloe vera extract – moisturizes even the deepest layers of the skin and increases skin tone, making it firmer and more elastic.
- Green tea leaf hydrolate – prevents premature aging of the skin, influences hydration and has a refreshing effect.
- Grapeseed oil – inhibits excessive sebum secretion, contains a high content of linoleic acid, known for its non-comedogenic properties.
In the evening before the application of self-tanner, you can use a light regenerating cream, but the next day, after the application, abandon the use of other products.
Shaving/depilation – when is the best time to do them?
If you plan to depilate or shave, do it a minimum of 24 hours before applying self-tanner. Immediately after shaving, the skin is irritated and may contain micro-injuries that absorb self-tanner more intensely – causing the effect of darker dots or spots. In addition, depilation can damage the hydrolipid barrier, increasing the risk of irritation.
Application day – what you can and what to avoid?
On the day of application, the skin should be clean, dry and free of cosmetic products. Avoid lotions, creams, oils, antiperspirants. The skin should be 100% dry before starting the application. Also, give up hot baths, saunas or intense exercise, which require exertion and stimulate sweat glands.
Gentle moisturization of problematic areas
Just before application, you can slightly deviate from the general rule and do just one thing: gently moisturize the areas most prone to dryness – elbows, knees, ankles, wrists and feet. In these areas, the skin is thicker and rougher, so it can absorb more self-tanner, giving an unnatural effect. Spot moisturizing (with a light cream or lotion) will reduce the penetration of self-tanner and help avoid darker spots.
Tips from the expert
Remember that proper skin preparation before applying self-tanner is key to enjoying the effect of a natural and even tan. Don't forget to exfoliate dead skin, moisturize your skin, get your hair depilated early enough, and forgo applying cosmetics before applying a bronzing product. With these steps, your skin will be fully ready for self-tanner, and you will be able to enjoy a beautiful tan for a long time!
Author: Zuzanna Panuszewska
Certified Cosmetologist
Skincare Expert
konsultacje@veolibotanica.pl
Substantive editing: Katarzyna Leoniak
Certified Cosmetologist
Skincare Expert
konsultacje@veolibotanica.pl