How to use self-tanning?

How to use self-tanning?

Self-tanning gives you the opportunity to create or keep a natural glow in your skin all year round, regardless of the weather. Tanned skin is ideal for periods when you feel pale and windy. Self-tanning can give just as good a result as sunbathing.

What is self-tanning?

Most self-tanners contain the substance dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is a sugar substance. The amount of DHA determines how strong the self-tanning effect of the product is, in combination with the pH value in the skin. A high pH in the skin gives an orange-like colour, while a lower pH gives a more natural tan. DHA reacts with proteins and amino acids in the skin, causing the skin to take on a brownish colour. Self-tanning products only color the very outermost layer of the skin, which consists of dead skin cells. 

As a rule, you will start to see a color change after one hour, and the color develops gradually for up to 24 hours. 

DHA is a safe substance to apply to the skin. In rare cases, allergic reactions have been seen, but this can also be due to perfume or other substances in the self-tanner. Self-tanning is not dangerous, and can be safely used over time instead of excessive tanning.

Remember that self-tanning does not provide any form of sun protection! You should use sunscreen even if your skin is tan. 

Good advice before using self-tanning cream

• Choose a color shade that suits your skin so that the result looks as natural as possible. First try on a small area, and see the next day how the color has turned out.

• Start by using a good scrub . A scrub removes dead skin cells and contributes to a more even result of self-tanning.

• Moisturize dry skin areas before applying the self-tanning cream. Dry skin absorbs more of the colour, and can produce darker spots.

• Cuticles, eyebrows and hairline easily take color from self-tanning products, a tip is to apply a little Vaseline to these areas before using self-tanning.

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How long does self-tanning last?

The color from self-tanning develops gradually in the first 24 hours after application, then diminishes over time. Depending on the type of self-tan and how the skin is treated before and after application, the color can stay in the skin for up to a week. To maintain the color, you may want to reapply self-tanner every other day.  

How to remove self-tanning?

Self-tanning accidents, such as visible, dark spots and shields on hands and feet, can be frustrating and embarrassing when they occur. If you don't have a self-tan remover to hand, you can easily remove self-tan with just two ingredients:

• Baking soda

• Water

Make a thick paste/mixture of baking soda and a little water, then rub the mixture into the affected area. Leave on for a few minutes before washing off the mixture. It doesn't get any easier!