DIY Beauty - Self Tanner

Before you get ready to apply a self tanner always remember to exfoliate your skin. Pay special attention to places on your body that skin is more rough (elbows, knees, tops of feet, knuckles) because this is where self tanner tends to show up darker, especially if not properly exfoliated. DO NOT apply lotion or any type of moisturizer to the skin before application, the lotion acts as a barrier and doesn't allow for proper absorption. Make sure that your skin is completely dry, if there is even slight moisture on your skin it can cause streaking. Use the lotion sparingly, you can always add more later. If you use too much the color may turn out a lot darker (and more orange) than what you were going for. Take note Lindsay Lohan!

Though it would be ideal to use gloves when applying self tanner, they are more likely to streak than using your hands. So just make sure to wash your hands every five minutes or so to keep from having orange hands. Make sure to apply the self tanner AT LEAST a week prior to the event. That way if there are any mishaps the lotion has time to fade and you still have time to repeat. When applying, make sure to start from the feet and work your way up.

In my experience I've had really good luck with Neutrogena Instant Bronze and Tan Towel. They both went on very evenly and the tan looked more natural than any other brand I've tried. I haven't had much luck with a lot of store brand self tanners because they are very thick and no matter how often I washed my hands, in between my fingers and the palms of my hands always ended up with an orangey tone. If you know anyone that has used a self tanner, ask them what brands they liked and didn't.

This video should be very helpful in the preparation and application of the lotion.