Tips for Self-Tanning

Rather than exposing your skin to the harmful rays of the sun or dealing with a potential spray tan mishap, try a self-tanning method that is safe and easy. The following tips will help you get a natural glow that can last all summer.

Moisturize

Moisturizing your skin is the first step to achieving an even tan. Be sure to apply extra moisturizer to your hands, feet, elbows and knees, since these areas tend to be drier than other areas of your skin. Try using SeneDerm® Advanced Hydration Body Lotion, which contains sodium hyaluronate — which functions as a tissue lubricant — and French plum oil to promote smooth, healthy skin.

Exfoliate

The next step is to exfoliate. You want to ensure that dead skin cells are buffed away to ensure that the self-tanner goes on to smooth, healthy skin to lengthen the results. Use an exfoliating wash in the shower, such as SeneDerm Body Scrub, focusing on thicker areas of skin like knees, elbows, and ankles, to make sure skin is smooth and prepared for self-tanner application.

Use gloves or wash hands frequently

When applying the tanning lotion, it’s best to use latex gloves to avoid staining your hands or allowing it to accumulate between your fingers and on your cuticles. If you don’t have gloves or prefer not to use them, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests washing your hands with soap and water frequently during the self-tanning process.

Work from the bottom up

Select a moisturizing, streak-free self-tanner such as SeneDerm Self-Tanning Bronzing Coconut Milk and apply it from the bottom up. If you begin with your upper body, you may risk creating streaks around your torso when bending over to do your legs and feet. By starting from the bottom, you’ll ensure a more even tan.

Dilute over your joints

When applying self-tanner to your knees, elbows and ankles, dilute it with regular lotion or apply a thin layer with a damp washcloth. This will help you avoid tanning these areas too darkly, which is easy to do since they tend to absorb more lotion than other regions on your body.

Be patient

Wait at least 10 minutes before getting dressed to avoid rubbing off the lotion before your skin has fully absorbed it. You should also avoid sweating and opt for loose clothing for the next three hours, as recommended by the AAD.

Continue to wear sunscreen

Even though you’ll have achieved a lovely glow in a safe way, you still need to apply sunscreen each day to avoid skin damage and help maintain your new tan. The AAD advises to select a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, like SeneDerm® SeneSun™ SPF 30 SunScreen.

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