Self-tanning cream and other products for a perfect summer tan

A gently tanned, shiny body is one of the most desirable attributes of every summer. As soon as the weather warms up, we rush to treat ourselves to the first rays of the sun to  create a tan that we could enjoy during the warm season and after it ends. However, sometimes the weather is not kind and does not provide opportunities to enjoy naturally brown skin. That's when self-tanning cream and other products that ensures the desired look without much effort, come to the rescue.

How to use self-tanning cream?

Applying a self-tanning cream begins with proper preparation of the skin - it must be exfoliated responsibly by removing all dead cells and excess oil on its surface. This can be done in one of two ways - mechanically, using various facial scrubs, and chemically, with the help of acidic facial care products. After cleansing, it is important to moisturize the skin, so a moisturizer or lotion will be useful.

Before using the self-tanner, let the skin rest for at least a day - do not sunbathe, do not visit the sun beds.

Self-tanning cream should be applied the night before, as its effects become apparent after about 4-5 hours. It is best to start applying the cream from the feet and move from the bottom upwards, rubbing it in with light, circular movements. It can be applied by hand or with a sponge. It is important to make sure that you have covered the entire surface of the skin and have not left any patches or thicker, thinner spots - if you do not, you will regret it once the cream has set. If you can't reach certain areas of your body yourself, ask friends or family for help. It's much better to trust someone else's eyes than to try to reach your own shoulder blades and risk them becoming unevenly stained. Experts recommend applying the cream especially thoroughly to the hairline, eyebrows and lips, as well as to the bends of the body - elbows and knees.

What is the difference between a cream and a lotion?

The difference between a self-tanning cream and a lotion, fluid or spray is in texture and consistency. In general, a cream is recommended for dry, irritated skin, as it has a moisturising effect, and its natural oiliness makes it easier to apply. Lotions, fluids and other light-textured self-tanners are more suitable for oily and normal skin.

The creams are ideal for quick effects, for example when going to a party or celebration. It takes 4-5 hours to take full effect and lasts up to 5 days, but a self-tanning cream is ideal for looking tanned even before it's fully developed, so you can leave the house even less time after application.

Lotion or fluid-type products need to be used more often than creams, but gradually create and maintain a subtle tan and glow on the skin. They can also be used as a skincare product after sunbathing to moisturize dry skin. Self-tanning oil also works.

An increasingly popular self-tanning product is drops, which are attractive because you can set your own colour intensity. However, it is highly concentrated and should be used with caution and avoid mixing it with other strong beauty products.

Spray tanning aid is a great alternative to lotions and creams if you don't want to apply the product by hand and are looking for a more convenient way. Spray tanners provide easier application and allow you to reach harder-to-reach areas, such as the back or the inside of the calves.

It is important to remember that no matter what kind of self-tanner you use, your skin must be washed and cleaned beforehand. Water won't do the trick here - a cleanser or toner is best for this. Only then can you be sure that the product will apply evenly and give you the desired result.

Can a self-tanning mitt replace a cream?

A self-tanning mitt is a product designed to make the application of a cream, lotion, fluid or foam easier and more convenient. It is not a substitute to any of these products, but it certainly makes them easier to use, especially if you are trying sunless tanning for the first time and are not experienced. Using a self-tanning mitt will help you avoid unevenly distributed products causing uneven bumps, darker areas of skin and oddly shaped bands.

Using the glove also protects your palms - unlike applying the product by hand, using the glove will keep your palms clean. The most important thing is to remember after putting the gloves aside is to apply the product to your hands and pay enough attention to the gaps between the fingers.

Although the self-tanning mitt is ideal for use with any type of tanning product, reviews show that it works best with foam. Applying a small amount of foam to the glove and rubbing it over the body in a circular motion gives the desired result - a smooth and even tan.