Fake tan guide: Exfoliate to avoid looking like a chipmunk
Using self-tanner is the quickest way to get rid of the winter pallor without risking painful sunburn.
Self-tanners come as creams, sprays or gels. They contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a sugar derived from glycerine that reacts with the free amino acids and proteins in the skin to give you a glowing complexion.
The choice of product depends on your skin type. Fake tan creams are ideal for dry skin, according to German industry association IKW. People with greasy skin should use oil-free self-tanning lotions or gels. Fake tan emulsions and sprays are suitable for all skin types.
Special creams are available to make your face look less pale. The suitability of a product for different skin tones depends on the amount of DHA.
However, the best self-tanner is useless if you don't apply it right and end up looking like a chipmunk. To ensure that your tan is as even as possible, cleanse and exfoliate your skin thoroughly before applying cream or spraying on self-tanner. It can make sense to remove the hairs on your legs and forearms the evening before, as they can cause a blotchy brown colour, according to the IKW. That allows the skin to calm down overnight.
When applying a tanner, make sure to carefully blur the transition from the chin to the neck. Avoid the eyebrows and hairline. Otherwise, self-tanner sticking between the hair can make your skin seem darker. If you have accidentally daubed the product onto bodily hair, remove it immediately with a damp cloth.
Exfoliation can also help with spots that only appear later, says the IKW. The spots or streaks cannot be fully retouched, but can be alleviated somewhat. Once your body has fully absorbed the self-tanner, apply rich body lotions or moisturising creams regularly to keep your skin evenly tanned for as long as possible.
After applying self-tanner, give your skin enough time to react with the ingredients. Wait three hours before showering or exercising. Otherwise, you may end up with spots. Remember that self-tanners do not protect from UV rays, so always use sunscreen.
