I love being tanned. I fake tan all year round, especially for nights out, but as summer slowly approaches (emphasis on the slowly), I get even more into my tanning routine. I wouldn’t necessarily deem myself an ‘expert’ on fake tan, but I feel like I’ve been doing it long enough that I don’t often make horrendous mistakes, and I have picked up a few tips and tricks along the way.
The star of the show. This is an incredible fake tan, and the hype surrounding it proves that. I apply it with the Xen-Tan mitt and it is extremely easy to apply. The guide colour is quite dark, so it’s easy to see where you haven’t applied yet. On initial application, it does have that biscuit-esque fake tan smell, but after you leave to develop for around eight hours (I usually leave it overnight) the smell does disappear after washing it off. I find that it lasts around a week, and fades evenly in that period. I use this for both my body and my face, and surprisingly, even though I have relatively sensitive skin, it doesn’t break me out. Unfortunately, this is not a purse-friendly product, and if you are planning on buying this, try not to buy it for the RRP. Sites like feel unique and beauty bay always have this on offer.
But before applying fake tan, it is important to prep the skin properly. The first step is to exfoliate. My favourite scrubs are from Soap and Glory – the current one I’m using is the Breakfast Scrub. They come in a range of scents, and they’re all great. Exfoliating the skin is important, as it creates a smooth surface and gets rid of any flakey dry skin. This will prevent the tan from looking patchy.
The next step after exfoliating is to shave. Since using this shower oil, I have been getting a much closer and smoother shave and it leaves my skin really soft. I also use this as a shower gel on the days after I have applied my fake tan. I find that some shower gels can be quite stripping and cause my tan to go quite patchy, but this oil is incredibly moisturising and helps maintain my tan. Although it is an oil, it doesn’t leave any greasy residue on the skin.
The final prep step would be to moisturise. The reason I haven’t included any in particular is because I haven’t found one that I love and that I would entirely recommend. I tend to use body butters – particular those from The Body Shop – and anything really rich in texture. It is important to have your skin moisturised before you apply your tan and to keep moisturising on the days after you have applied. This is to help extend the wear of your tan, and help it fade more evenly.
I hope that this post was useful to both you tan-lovers and newbies. One day I may venture from my beloved Xen-Tan, but for now (3 bottles later) I am completely smitten. What is your favourite fake tan?
–RachelElizabeth