Self-Tanner

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Self-tanners add color to any area of the body, including the face. It’s an easy way to mask cellulite and veins in the legs. On the face, self-tanner can brighten up a tired complexion. It can be difficult to decide which product to use so it's important to test in a hidden spot before applying all over.[1]

All sunless tanners use DHA (dihydroxyacetone) to temporarily color skin. DHA is considered safe for skin. Sunless tanners do not protect from the sun's UV rays, so sunscreen should be used in tandem. Also, beware of SPF claims by sunless tanners. If the package doesn't list the ingredients of titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, Helioplex or avobenzone (or Mexoryl SX or Tinosorb outside the U.S.), then it doesn't protect against UVA rays, which are the most damaging to skin.[2]

If you're pregnant or nursing, experts recommend checking with your physician before applying sunless tanners, especially salon sprays. According to the American Pregnancy Association, DHA is considered safe for pregnant women. However, editors also say, "The only concern is whether the active ingredient, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), is able to penetrate the skin. Studies do not confirm that it can, but some healthcare providers encourage women to wait until after the first trimester, just to play it safe."[2]

Applying Self-Tanner

  1. Prepare the skin. Always spply self-tanner to clean, smooth, makeup-free skin. It is best to exfoliate first if there are any rough patches. Knees, elbows, and heels are often areas with coarse, dry skin.
  2. Apply a light, even layer. - Wait for the color to develop, and then apply a light second coat for a deeper tan. It is easier to build color than to fix mistakes. do not forget to apply the product to the neck and ears for a natural-looking result.
  3. Wash your hands immediately after using self-tanner. The product will stain palms and the skin between the fingers.
  4. Wait ten minutes after applying self-tanner to the face before applying any other makeup or getting dressed.
  5. Most self-tanners take an hour or more to develop into a "tan," so plan ahead.
  • Dark or streaky self-tanning results - Fade overly dark color by exfoliating the skin in the shower with a washcloth or loofah. Then, thoroughly clean the skin with cold cream or baby oil. Some self-tanners can be removed with lemon juice. Fix streaks by applying additional light coat of self-tanner on the lightest parts of the skin.

All material in this section is from "Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual" unless otherwise noted.[1]

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 Brown, Bobbi. "Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual." Pg. 73.
  2. 2.0 2.1 http://www.consumersearch.com/sunless-tanning/important-features