A lot of people ask about the proper application of self-tanners. Are they safe? How do self-tanners work? Can you put a self-tanner on your face? These and more questions shall be answered in this article.
Can you put self-tanner on your face?
You can put self-tanner on your face, just as you would on the rest of your body. But it can be scary because tanning mistakes on the face are difficult to hide compared to any mistakes on the legs or arms. To help you do it the right way on your face, here are some tips for applying a self-tanner on your face:
- Before applying a self-tanner, make sure that you remove makeup, dirt and other impurities on your facial skin. If you need to scrub your skin, do it gently. Scrubbing is a great way to remove excess dead skin cells that may cause a streaky tan.
- After scrubbing and cleansing, moisturize your skin. Moisturizer creates a smooth base for the self-tanner. Also, moisturize your neck as you will also apply self-tanner to this area.
- Choose the desired self-tanner. You can choose between a make-up based bronzer or the more traditional self-tanner. One good self-tanner specially formulated for the face is the Christian Dior Bronze Self-tanner for Face Cream. It is suitable for all skin types and creates a natural looking tan.
- Match the tan of your body to your face. Once you are finished tanning your face, next tackle your body. To ensure a believable tan, choose the depth of tan exactly the same with your face. Apply the self-tanner to your body exactly the same way you did it to your face.
Are self-tanners safe?
Many dermatologists recommend the application of self-tanners rather than sunbathing. Sunbathing increases the risk of skin problems and is a major risk factor for skin cancer. Meanwhile, you can apply self-tanners right inside your home.
Self-tanners contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), an active ingredient that reacts to dead skin cells. The result of the reaction is the darkening of the skin. DHA is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a color additive for the skin. DHA has been used by cosmetics laboratories for many years.
How long does a self-tanner last?
Self-tanning happens on the outermost layer of the epidermis, or skin while sunbathing affects the innermost layer of the epidermis. This makes a tan caused by sunbathing to last longer than the tan caused by self-tanners.
As the dead skin cells begin to slough off, the tan wears off too. It lasts for a few days, usually 4-6 days, depending on the product. If you want to maintain the tan, reapplication is recommended.
What are safe and effective self-tanners?
Not all self-tanners are safe; some contain harsh chemicals that may damage your skin, while others have a strong scent that is too strong or leaves a stain on the skin and clothes. Some cheap self-tanners give the skin an orange undertone will look completely ridiculous.
Get a natural looking tan with the safest and most reliable self-tanning products. Here are some of them:
Christian Dior Bronze Self-tanner for Face Cream
The Christian Dior Bronze Self-tanner for Face Cream is formulated as a gel cream that is lightweight and easily absorbed by the skin. It is tinted so you will see the evenness of the tan as you apply the gel cream. It is 100% streak free and leaves the skin with a natural looking tan.
Tropez Self Tan Advanced Bronzing Mousse
The St. Tropez Self Tan Advanced Bronzing Mousse is a bit expensive but it’s a very cost effective self-tanner. It gives you the choice of the level of tan you want without any reapplication. As a soft mousse, it is easy to apply and feels lightweight on the skin. It can make the skin bronze or a natural tone, depending on your choice or skin complexion.
Anjou Self-tanner and Tanning Application Kit
The Anjou Self-tanner and Tanning Application Kit comes in a complete self-tanning kit with a soft mitt for even application. It is enriched with jojoba oil, argan oil, vitamin C, and other nourishing ingredients to make skin smoother and moisturized. It makes the skin a naturally golden olive tan. It does not leave steaks on the skin or clothes, making it easy and safe to apply.
