How to Apply Fake Tan

avoiding streaks and patches

Step 1 - Exfoliate

Before even thinking about applying fake tan make sure that you have exfoliated well.  Because fake tan changes the colour of the outer layers of skin you need to get rid of any dead skin cells.  If you haven't been exfoliating on a regular basis then you should exfoliate every day for a week.  Exfoliating is vitally important otherwise you could end up with streaks and patches. 

Step 2 - Moisturise

Apply moisturiser the day before applying fake tan.  Don't moisturise the same day except for knees, elbows, feet and hands.  The problem when applying the moisturiser on the same day is that it stops the fake tan penetrating the skin.

Step 3 - Fake Tan

When washing your skin use a PH neutral soap because if you use an alkaline soap you will turn orange.  Alternatively wait for 30 minutes so that your skin will become neutral again. 

Make sure that you have purchased the best fake tan for your skin.  If you have very pale skin then look for a fake tan which will give a lighter colour or mix it in with moisturiser otherwise you could end up orange.  Look out for a tanning product which has a tint in it otherwise you will have difficulty in knowing where you have applied it.

Apply the fake tan over your body (sparingly on areas such as hands and feet).  After 5 minutes gently rub over the whole body to blend.  You can use a tanning mitt if you are worried about your hands becoming too orange.

Don't put on any clothes for 5-10 minutes afterwards, or if you have to make sure that they are baggy.  Be aware that a tan can take several hours to develop so plan ahead if you are tanning for a special occasion.

If you want a darker tan then you will have to apply 2 or 3 coats - just make sure you don't apply the coats too soon after each other as this can cause flaking.

Step 4 - Maintenance

To keep your tan looking good continue to moisturise your skin.  About 5 days after applying the tan gently exfoliate to prevent blotchy patches.