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The goal when self tanning instead of sun tanning is to get a "natural" looking tan without the sun. Here are a few self tanning tips to help you achieve that goal.
How long does it take?
Maximum color is usually reached in 7 days. To keep the tan, continued use of the self-tanning product is required 2 or 3 times a week.
Tanning special areas
When using self-tanning lotions, use less tanning product on the elbows, knees, ankles, and knuckles to avoid an uneven "tan". These areas are naturally darker. Also, over-application to these areas can make the skin look dirty.
Avoid stained hands
Wash tanning lotion from the palms of your hands immediately after application to avoid staining.
Drying time
Allow tanning lotion to dry completely before dressing - usually 10 minutes, however, time varies due to atmospheric conditions. If you dress before the lotion has time to completely dry, the lotion will rub off onto anything it touches; if it does, you could end up with an uneven tan.
If you hate the smell of self tanner's there are a few on the market with little scent. I am especially fond of Mary Kay™ Subtle Tanning Lotion. It has a pleasant and gentle smell, moisturizes the skin, applies easily and the "tan" looks very natural.
Self Tanning Do's and Don'ts
Do's
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Do exfoliate your skin two or three times the same week you intend to apply a self tanning product, but not the same day of your initial application.
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Do shave the day before applying self tanning products.
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Do stick to a serious regimen of moisturizing your body before applying a self tanning product. Because dry skin cells flake and fall off, so will your "tan".
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Do apply self-tanning lotion to clean and dry skin.
Don'ts
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Do not exfoliate your skin the same day you use a self tanning product.
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Do not shave or use a hair remover the same day you use a self tanning product. I used a hair remover and a self-tanning lotion the same day and suffered a severe burn to my skin. Coincidence? I am not sure, but I will never take that chance again.
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Do not moisturize the skin immediately before applying a self tanning product.
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Do not use self-tanning lotion on irritated or broken skin.
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