Fake Tan Hacks: Follow This Guide for a Flawless Faux Glow

Drinking plenty of water, applying petroleum jelly and patting yourself with a towel are just some of the best hacks for applying streak-free fake tan. That’s according to online hair and beauty retailer Hairtrade.com who have put together their top tips for fake tanning. These are the top fake tan hacks:

Prep to Avoid Patchiness

It’s important that you undertake the necessary steps before applying your fake tan. Wax or shave at least 24 hours before tanning, to give your skins pores a chance to close up. It’s also important to get your nails and hair done before you tan, as a pedicure (with soaking and scrubbing) will leave your feet patchy and hair dye will strip the tan around your hairline.

You should also exfoliate and moisturise 24 hours before you apply the false tan, to avoid patchiness around your knees, elbows and any other places where you have dry skin.

Avoid Hair Removal Creams

Avoid using hair removal creams when you have fake tan on, as this will strip the tan from the skin, which will cause an uneven, patchy mess.

Drink Plenty of Water

According to research, it’s important to drink plenty of water when you are fake tanning, as the DHA ingredient that’s found in most tans can dehydrate your skin.

Do your Face First

If you’re spot-prone, avoid using the same fake tanner on your body that you do on your face. Instead, use one which has hydrating ingredients, which will stop the tan from clogging your pores.

The tan on your face should also much lighter than on your body, so avoid putting too much on. This is because it’ll end up looking too dark against your skin once you have added colour to your face with make-up.

Apply Petroleum Jelly

Many beauticians who do spray tans professionally rub a thin layer of petroleum jelly to dry areas on your body before applying fake tan. This includes places like your elbows, knees and the back of your heels, and it is done to prevent darker stains on these areas.

Never Rub With a Towel

After showering, never rub yourself with your towel, as this will only strip off your tan. Instead, pat yourself down with your towel until your skin dries.

Add some Baby Powder

If you’re heading out in the sun whilst wearing fake tan, always apply some baby powder to any part of your body that sweats more than the others. This will stop your fake tan from stripping in the areas where your body collects the most moisture.

Avoid Baths and Swimming Pools

The less time spent in water, the better for your fake tan. Chlorine is known for stripping off your false tan, so avoid spending too much time in swimming pools and Jacuzzis.

Remove Splotchy Tan With Milk

If you’re tan has become patchy over time, remove it by using a homemade mask made from lemon and milk. Simply add a lemon slice to a glass of milk and apply to your skin. Leave it on for 15 mins before rinsing off. This should remove your streaky tan in no time.

Wear Gloves

When applying fake tan, always make sure you wear some disposable gloves. This will stop it from streaking and will avoid those dreaded orange hands.

Alicia Joy