ADVICE
Sunless Tanning
Achieving an even-toned, natural-looking tan when using a self-tanner can be a bit frustrating. Perhaps you, too, can testify to the horrors of waking up to orange, streaky legs on the day you planned to wear that great short skirt you just bought. But don’t lose hope. Here are some tips from the experts who perform self-tanning treatments at the best known spas. Follow these simple tips, and emerge looking bronzed, beautiful and ready for even the most revealing fashions.

1. Be sure to exfoliate your skin and shave your legs prior to the application of any self-tanner. This removes any dead skin cells, allowing for a more even penetration, and a longer lasting tan. For best results, try Loofah Body Scrub by Ole Henriksen. Apply it in the shower with our one-of-a-kind Ayate Body Smoother.

2. Apply a body moisturizer to dry areas like knees, ankles and elbows to prevent them from becoming too dark.

3. Wearing surgical gloves, and using long, upward motions, apply a thin layer of the self-tanner one area at a time. Thoroughly work the tanner in before moving to the next area. Blot off any excess product with a tissue, paying close attention to your knees, elbows and ankles. If you think you’ve applied too much self-tanner to an area, or if you start seeing streaks shortly after application, apply body oil and blend it in.

For a lighter application, a self-tanner can be combined with your favorite body moisturizer and the two can be applied simultaneously to the skin. For a deeper-looking tan, apply a second layer of the self-tanner and work it thoroughly into the skin.

4. Let your body dry, and allow the self-tanner to absorb into the skin for approximately 15 minutes before getting dressed. Wear loose clothing for the first few hours to prevent the self-tanner from being rubbed off. Typically, it takes 3 to 4 hours for the tan to fully develop. Don’t exercise or shower during this time.

5. Wipe off any resulting streaks with a cotton ball and an alcohol-based astringent or nail polish remover. If you’ve missed a spot, carefully apply a small amount of the self-tanner to that area only.