Spray, cream, oil... self-tanning products are the perfect way to give yourself a tanned complexion without exposure to the sun. And rest assured: today's self-tanning formulas are a far cry from the orange hue of the 90s! New-generation products deliver a natural-looking tan in no time.
Here are a few tips on how to correctly use self-tanners and find the options that best suit your needs.
How do self-tanners work?
Self-tanning products contain substances such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and erythrulose, which react with amino acids and keratin in the skin to produce brown pigments on the surface. After a few hours, a more or less darker shade is achieved. It is temporary, however, and will gradually fade if the self-tanner is not reapplied.
DHA, erythrulose... what are they?
They are, in fact, natural active ingredients. The former can be found in wheat, rapeseed or beet, while the latter, a plant sugar, is found in raspberries.
Is it a good idea to use a self-tanner?
Using a self-tanner can be an excellent option for those who want a tan without the risks associated with the sun's UV rays, as long as you choose a product suited to your skin type and follow the application instructions to avoid demarcations or uneven colour. Thanks to advances in technology, today's self-tanning formulas eliminate the orange hue and deliver the most natural, even tan.
How long will it take?
In general, the colour begins to appear about 2 to 4 hours after application. For optimum results, the colour continues to develop and reaches its maximum intensity within 24 hours of application. It is therefore advisable to avoid showering or exposure to water for at least 4 to 8 hours after application, to allow the product to react fully with the skin.
Is it possible to apply self-tanner every day?
You can definitely apply self-tanner every day, especially if you want to maintain a continuous tan or gradually intensify your glow. But be sure to choose self-tanning products specially formulated for daily use. These are generally lighter and are integrated with moisturizers, ensuring a gentle application that nourishes the skin while gradually colouring it.
Good exfoliation and moisturizing of the skin are required before each application of self-tanner to guarantee an even, natural result at every stage of your beauty routine.
What's the most effective self-tanner?
Choosing the most effective self-tanner depends largely on your needs and skin type. In fact, applying a self-tanner does not give the same result from one person to another, even with similar complexions: factors such as skin pH, temperature, stress levels, diet and hormonal cycle can all have an impact on colour.
To get an idea of the shade and finish of a self-tanning product, take the time to read consumer reviews and test by applying a small amount of product to different areas of the body, in places that are easy to conceal. Make sure that the concentration of active tanning ingredients is suited to your skin tone:
- For pale skin, opt for a gradual tan formula containing 1-3% DHA, which helps control tanning and maintain a natural look.
- For darker skins, you can aim for 5% DHA.
- Avoid going higher in winter: the most concentrated products (up to 8% DHA) are best used to maintain an existing tan.
Formulas that moisturize as well as tan the skin, such as those enriched with aloe vera or essential fatty acids, are also popular for their dual action.
Make sure you don't leave any excess product on your lashes and eyebrows, and gently pat the area around your eyes to avoid the "glasses effect"!
A few rules to follow when applying your self-tanner
Exfoliating your skin before applying self-tanner is one of the application rules to follow to achieve an effect in line with your expectations: the result will be more even, and more pronounced, on an epidermis free of dead skin.
To give yourself the best chance of success, make sure you use your daily moisturizer after applying the self-tanner. And don't forget to wash your hands - especially your palms!
For busy mornings
You don't have the time to apply a self-tanning cream while taking all the necessary precautions? Choose an express solution with a self-tanning spray, which diffuses easily and covers all angles in no time at all. The steps are simple: simply hold the bottle about twenty centimetres from the body and spray onto clean, dry skin, making sure to cover the entire target area.
Another option
Choose a lotion that can be applied in the shower after cleansing. Spread the formula over damp skin using circular movements, leave on for 3 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. Your tan will then develop with each wash.
Find the best self-tanning spray for your needs!
Bioderma Photoderm Self-Tanner
L'Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Airbrush (Medium)
For parched skin
Quenched skin means a long-lasting, radiant tan. That's why many self-tanners also come with a moisturizing factor, especially those with a creamy, melting or milky texture. These moisturizing self-tanners are used for smooth, soft legs and to enhance the neck and décolleté.
Suggestions for moisturizing self-tanners for body and face
Vichy Idéal Soleil Moisturizing self-tanning milk
For delicate facial skin
There are several different self-tanners with different textures, specially designed for the delicate skin of the face. Apply before your day or night cream, taking care to go down to the neck and cover the ears well.
Make sure you don't leave any excess product on your lashes and eyebrows, and gently pat the area around your eyes to avoid the "glasses effect"!
Some of the best self-tanners for the face
St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist (Medium)
Sun protection
Remember this important fact: Self-tanning products do not replace sunscreens and do not protect against UV rays! Thus, consider using a product with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to adequately protect your skin from sun exposure.
And don't forget to ask our beauty consultants for advice on finding the best self-tanning product for your needs!
