If you want to add a little bit of color to your skin, you don’t have to sunbathe at the beach or go to a tanning salon. Exposing your skin to ultraviolet (UVA/UVB) rays is very dangerous and can cause skin cancer in the future. Instead of letting the sun hit your skin, use a self-tanning product. Self-tanning products have become increasingly popular in recent years and can look very natural. If you haven’t used a self-tanner before, follow the tips below so that you avoid getting streaks and dark patches.

Exfoliate Your Skin

It is important to exfoliate your skin before applying self-tanner. An exfoliating product will get rid of dead skin cells, which will make your skin much smoother. Having smooth skin will prevent you from getting splotches from the self-tanner.

Don’t Use Moisturizer

Avoid moisturizing your skin before applying self-tanner; your skin should be completely dry. It is okay, however, to moisturize extreme dry patches on your skin.

Put On Gloves or Wash After Each Section

To prevent your hands from getting orange, put on some latex gloves before applying self-tanner. If you don’t have any latex gloves, make sure to wash your hands with soap and water immediately after you apply the self-tanner to each section of your body. Washing your hands in between applying the tanner to arms, legs, torso, and face will help minimize your chances of ending up with those dreaded orange hands!

Choose the Right Formula

There are many types of self-tanning formulas out there, so it is important to pick one that’s right for you. If you have never used self-tanner before, you should use a gradual formula. Once you have built a light glow that you are happy with, you can use products that will give you a deeper tan.

Tone Down Streaks With a Shower

If you end up with any streaks, take a quick shower to fade them away. If that doesn’t work, add a cup of milk to your bath water; it will help fade the color.

Reapply Self-tanner Every Three Days

To maintain your tan, reapply the self-tanner every three days. It’s a good idea to exfoliate your skin a few times a week to keep your skin smooth and moisturized.

Not Sure What Brand to Start with?

Fake Bake “Airbrush”

Applying self-tanner is not difficult at all once you get the hang of it. Wearing self-tanner can give you that sun-kissed glow you’ve been wanting. Once you get used to putting on self-tanner, you won’t even think about using a tanning bed again. Avoiding tanning beds will not just lower your risk of getting skin cancer; it will also help you avoid getting premature wrinkles.