If you’re looking for a healthy, natural glow without the sun damage, fake tan is the safest way to enhance your skin tone or go full-on bronze.
We know it’s a bit of an art for those wanting to self-tan at home, but with a few simple steps (and perhaps a bit of trial and error), you’ll be sure to achieve the perfect tan every time.
We speak to the king of all tanning experts and owner and co-founder of Bondi Sands, Blair James, who shares his five top tips to achieve the perfect golden glow.
1. Prep and prime
As they say, all art begins with a good canvas. When it comes to tanning, it’s essential to start by exfoliating to remove dry skin and ensure the tan is applied on a smooth base.
Pro tip: use the Bondi Sands Coconut & Sea Salt body scrub in the shower, and focus on particularly dry areas, such as knees, elbows, and ankles.
2. Use a tanning mitt
Unless you’re after orange palms, use a tanning mitt! Whether it’s an oil, cream or mousse, applying the tan with a good quality mitt will assist with evenly coating the tan all over.
3. Check the product label
Check how long you should leave the self-tan product on for the face or body. Many tanning products continue to develop even after you have washed it off, so stick to the recommended time frame. If you’re after a deeper colour, it’s better to select a product for this purpose, like the Bondi Sands Pure Self Tan foaming water in dark, rather than applying multiple layers.
4. Don’t forget to moisturise and apply sunscreen
Once you’ve washed the tanning product off, remember to moisturise! I recommend a pH balanced formulation to help your tan stay on for longer. And never forget the importance of applying sunscreen — even with a fake tan, you still need to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
5. Self Tan Eraser
When next week rolls around and you’re ready for a fresh layer, remember to remove any residual tan first, revealing a clean canvas. I recommend the Bondi Sands Self Tan eraser gel — apply five minutes before you have a shower, wipe off with a wet cloth, and you’ll be good to rinse and repeat!
