Choose a tanning color just a few shades darker than your normal skin tone. If you go from snow white to burnt orange in a day, the transition won’t necessarily be positive. The goal is to look a few shades darker, as though you just spent a week in a warm, beachy locale. Consider whether to get a spray can or lotion dispenser. If your skin is on the dry side, you might want to choose a lotion for the added moisture. Some people find it easier to evenly distribute the tanning solution through a spray nozzle - it’s totally up to your personal preference.
Start by dry brushing your body to remove all the dead skin flakes and help your circulation a bit. Both the brush and your body should be dry. Brush your arms and legs in short strokes toward your heart. Don’t forget your torso, back, and any other areas you plan on tanning. Take a lukewarm shower and use an exfoliating body cleanser. Scrub areas like your knees and elbows, and any other spots that tend to get dry or scaly, especially well. Make sure to exfoliate at least 8 hours before tanning, to allow your skin’s pH balance to neutralize, which is ideal for the color to develop.
Start with one leg and apply the tanning solution from the toes up to the thighs, then do the other leg. Follow the directions on your bottle of solution, making sure to hold the spray bottle the correct distance from your skin. If you’re applying lotion, spread it on smoothly instead of rubbing it in too deeply in one spot. Next do your torso, back and neck. You can have a friend work on hard-to-reach spots, or use a “back spatula” (available at drugstores) to apply the solution to your back. It’s shaped like a body brush, but with a smooth buffer instead of a brush on the end. Apply it to your arms. Finish your hands by removing the gloves and applying the solution carefully with a cotton ball. Take special care with your face. You can use a little vaseline around the edges of your hairline to make sure the solution doesn’t build up there. [3] X Research source Spot treat difficult areas. Apply a barrier lotion to some areas of your skin that the product can build up and become saturated—areas like your feet, hands, elbows, etc.
The solution needs anywhere from 6-8 hours to develop. Check the manufacturer’s recommendation for exact timing. Make sure you remain in your house, as rain and sweat can cause self-tanner to drip—and dry streaked. Avoid showering for 10 hours.
If your back yard is private, consider tanning in the nude. Nothing’s sexier than no tan lines!
Don’t use tanning lotion below SPF-15. Prolonged tanning without some protection from UV rays is very bad, and is a major cause of skin cancer. Apply the oil about 20 minutes before you go out into the sun, and repeat every hour or so—or if you go into the water. This h olds true even if your sunscreen is waterproof. [5] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Find a chair that lets your skin breath, and wicks away moisture (sweat) for the most comfort. Bring a towel outside with you to cover parts of your body you don’t want to tan.
Lay out for 2-4 hours, reapplying your tanning oil hourly. If you get hot, run through your sprinklers or jump in the pool. [7] X Research source Remember that the longer you’re outside, the greater chance the sun will damage your skin. Be smart and go inside if it feels like you’re getting burned.
An aloe-based moisturizer will not only keep your tan in place, it’ll also keep your skin moist and soft.
