Guide

5 self-tanning tips for a streak-free summer complexion

Natalie Hemengül
26.5.2019
Translation: machine translated

An intense summer tan in just a few hours? It's possible - you just need to know how and with what. After many years of self-experimentation, I am now finally able to answer both questions.

First published on 07/06/2018

The fact that I have Armenian roots doesn't seem to affect my DNA. Quite the opposite: my parents' southern touch has stayed away from me, as has the predisposition to quickly take on colour. My family only turn brown when they flick through a holiday catalogue. And me? Well, I go on holiday, lie on a lounger and lie and lie and lie - and come back feeling lighter than when I went there.

A few years ago, in my "young, wild and fake from head to toe" days, I discovered self-tanning for myself. Just after my first experience with the solarium (the claustrophobia I've gained in the meantime says hello). In my opinion, the best invention since ice cream. So the self-tanner, not the solarium. However, before I could really enjoy my "Speedy Gonzales tan", I had to test a number of products. On some days, there were clear parallels between my appearance and the visual appearance of an orange. On other days, I could easily keep up with a giraffe in terms of staining. Today, I know exactly how and with what I can conjure up a streak- and spot-free tan. I would like to share this knowledge with you.

Products that make it easy for you

Garnier's self-tanner is perfect for beginners and one of my long-time favourites. It's a cream that you can apply before going to bed and doesn't need to be washed off. Only the scent is not very pleasant, but there are far worse - trust me! You can also build up your tan very well by repeating the application over several days. [[productlist:6996768]]

Foaming textures are generally more suitable for advanced users as they require more practice. The "Cacao Firming Mousse" from Eco By Sonya is an exception. You can find out more about this certified organic product in my review here: [[marketingpage:8763]] [[productlist:8853057]]

The magic formula is ...

Using the right products is only half the battle. In combination with the following 5 tips, however, nothing should go wrong.

Tip 1
Exfoliate and shave your skin thoroughly before applying the self-tanner. This will prevent the colour from accumulating on dead skin cells and hair stubble.

Tip 2
Apply a little body lotion to wrinkled, dry areas such as elbows, knees, ankles and wrists beforehand. This will ensure that your skin doesn't absorb too much self-tanner in these areas
.
Tip 3
If you are using a cream self-tanner, apply the product by hand. To avoid unsightly stains on the palm of your hand, I recommend rubbing it with a little disinfectant alcohol after application and then washing it. With mousse products, you should never use your hands, as the product is absorbed extremely quickly. You cannot avoid using a special applicator here:

St. Tropez Tan Applicator Mitt (Accessories self tanning)
Self-tanning

St. Tropez Tan Applicator Mitt

Accessories self tanning

I always work from body part to body part and from the inside out. For the abdomen, this means I start at the navel and spread the product in a star shape. Delicate areas such as the neck, hands and feet, which can quickly develop unsightly edges, are best treated at the end, using whatever is left on your applicator. This will ensure a smooth transition.

Tip 4
If you also want to apply the products to your face, it's best to work them in with a make-up brush. Otherwise, there are also special tanners for the face: [[productlist:6513847]]

Tip 5
To ensure that your hard-earned tan lasts as long as possible, apply moisturiser regularly after showering.

And here's another free insider tip (number 6, so to speak): By clicking on the black "Follow author" button next to my profile, you won't miss any of my articles in future.😛

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As a massive Disney fan, I see the world through rose-tinted glasses. I worship series from the 90s and consider mermaids a religion. When I’m not dancing in glitter rain, I’m either hanging out at pyjama parties or sitting at my make-up table. P.S. I love you, bacon, garlic and onions. 


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