subject: How to Get the Perfect Base for Your Fake Tan [print this page] How to Get the Perfect Base for Your Fake Tan
Maintaining the sun kissed look year round isn't easy, and can be impossible without a little help!Self-tanning is the perfect way to maintain your summer skin without the harmful effects of sun beds. But don't forget, getting both the preparation and application right is essential. If your skin isn't prepared correctly then your fake tan might streak, fade or look uneven.
If you make sure your skin is perfectly primed for false tan then your golden glow will look far more natural and last much longer. Just follow our easy steps to get your skin ready and get your perfect fake tan!
Shave or wax
It's important to remove hair from your legs; underarms and bikini line a couple of days before applying your false tan. This will prevent tan from accumulating around your body hair. If you're shaving leave at least 24 hours and waxing 48 hrs before applying false tan as both open your pores. This can cause tan to gather in them leaving unsightly dark spots in your tan.
Remember, never shave or wax soon after applying tan either as it can remove the colour from your skin.
Bath
Have a bath or shower the day before you intend to apply fake tan. This is the perfect time to cleanse your skin. If you bathe too soon before tanning it will open your pores and once again cause an uneven tan. This is also the ideal time to exfoliate.
Exfoliate
Exfoliation is essential if you want a natural looking and streak free tan. Use a dry body brush or exfoliating scrub all over your body, paying particular attention to dry areas like knees, elbows and heels. This will prevent tan from becoming too dark in dryer areas, which would leave a blotchy finish. The best time to do this is the day before tanning, once again giving your pores time to minimise.
Moisturise
Finally, moisturise. Once again, this stop is imperative to getting a smooth streak free tan. This, along with exfoliation, will minimise the risk of dry, blotchy patches. Moisturising is best done immediately after exfoliation. Apply a good quality moisturiser to any dry areas (elbows, feet, ankles, knees). Do not apply all over, as this will prevent your tan from developing properly. If you exfoliate and moisturise correctly as well as following our other steps you should achieve a smooth, streak-free tan all year round!
