Many people dream of that gorgeous sun-kissed glowing skin without the harmful effects of excessive sun exposure. Anyone eager to rock a stunning tan without the sunburn risks and harmful UV exposure turns to self-tanning. With more people realizing the importance of protecting their skin, many have been using gradual tanning lotions as a safer alternative.
Attaining a gradual tan is all about taking a patient and measured approach. Gradual tanning allows you to achieve a natural-looking tan by building up your color gradually over time. It’s about embracing the process and ensuring your skin stays healthy and nourished. Following the five tips in this article can help you achieve a natural-looking tan that will leave everyone asking about your secret.
1. Exfoliate And Moisturize First
Before applying a gradual tan, the first thing to do is prep your skin by exfoliating and moisturizing. Exfoliating 2-3 times a week helps maintain your gradual tan and show better results. Gradual tanning can hydrate your skin, especially around commonly dry areas like wrists and between your fingers. Moisturizing also helps hydrate your skin when you aren’t gradually tanning and to maintain your tan in the most natural-looking way possible.
2. Use Your Hands When Applying Gradual Tan
Gradual tanners are typically lotions that you apply on your body after showering. Unlike other self-tanning products, gradual tanning doesn’t require an application mitt. Using a mitt risks streaks on your body since the mitts will likely absorb the gradual tanner. But you can use mitts for hard-to-reach areas. Use your hands when applying the product to your body for better results.
You should wash your hands with a bar of gentle soap after applying gradual tanning lotion to prevent too much product from seeping into your palms. This may result in your hands being more tanned than the rest of your body. The gentle soap can wash away excess gradual tan without entirely removing the tan.
3. Apply Gradual Tan In A Circular Motion
When applying a gradual tanning lotion, it’s best to rub the product on your body in a circular motion. Instead of up and down or sideways, the circular motion can provide better coverage and help achieve an even application. Make sure to use firm strokes when applying gradual tan to properly work on hard-to-reach areas and ensure an even finish throughout.
4. Use The Right Amount Of Product On Certain Areas
There are areas in your body that may require more gradual tanning than other areas of your body. Apply more product on your back by starting at the top and gradually moving down. Your hands, wrist, elbows, knees, and feet should use less gradual tan products. The best way to do this is by using leftovers from applying all over your body. Remember that these areas are always the last ones to cover.
5. Reapply Gradual Tan Everyday
Gradual tanning is all about patience when it comes to results in building your desired tan. A light and even tan should develop after 2-3 days if you apply a gradual tan every day. Moisturizing and exfoliating daily also helps lock in your tan better. Once you’ve achieved your desired color, you can reapply gradual tan 2-3 times a week instead of daily.
Get That Sun-Kissed Glow
Achieving that natural-looking tan by building up the color gradually over time has never been this easy. Gradual tanning can give you the confidence to rock that golden complexion all year round. Remember that patience is influential when it comes to gradual tanning. Rushing the process can lead to streaky results or an unnatural appearance.