Achieving a flawless, sun-kissed glow with tanning cream is a fantastic alternative to sunbathing or tanning beds. However, using tanning cream incorrectly can result in streaks, patches, or an uneven tan that doesn’t look natural. To help you get the perfect tan every time, here are the top five mistakes to avoid when using tanning cream.
1. Skipping Proper Skin Preparation
One of the most common mistakes people make is applying tanning cream on unprepared skin. If you don’t exfoliate and moisturize beforehand, your tan may turn out blotchy and uneven.
How to Prepare Your Skin:
- Exfoliate: Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt to remove dead skin cells, especially on dry areas like knees, elbows, and ankles.
- Moisturize Dry Areas: Apply a lightweight moisturizer on dry patches to prevent them from absorbing too much product.
- Shave or Wax in Advance: If you plan to remove body hair, do it at least 24 hours before applying tanning cream to avoid irritation.
Proper skin preparation ensures your tan goes on smoothly and lasts longer.
2. Applying Too Much or Too Little Product
Using the right amount of tanning cream is key to an even tan. Applying too much product can make your skin look unnaturally dark or streaky, while too little can result in an uneven color.
Tips for Applying the Right Amount:
- Use a Tanning Mitt: A mitt helps distribute the cream evenly and prevents staining your hands.
- Start with a Small Amount: You can always build up the color by adding more layers rather than applying too much at once.
- Blend Well: Use circular motions to blend the cream evenly across your skin.
Applying an appropriate amount of product will help you achieve a natural and streak-free tan.
3. Ignoring Dry Spots and Joints
Certain areas of the body, such as knees, elbows, and ankles, tend to absorb more tanning cream, leading to dark patches. If you don’t take extra care in these areas, your tan may look uneven.
How to Avoid Dark Patches:
- Lightly Moisturize Beforehand: Applying a small amount of moisturizer on dry spots helps prevent them from absorbing too much product.
- Use a Lighter Touch: When applying tanning cream to joints, use a lighter amount and blend well.
- Wipe Excess Product: After applying tanning cream, use a damp cloth or makeup sponge to lightly blend or remove excess product from dry areas.
Taking these precautions will ensure a more even, natural-looking tan.
4. Not Allowing Enough Drying Time
Another common mistake is rushing the drying process. If you put on clothes or go to bed too soon after applying tanning cream, you risk smudging or transferring the product, leading to an uneven tan.
How to Let Your Tan Set Properly:
- Wait at Least 10-15 Minutes: Allow the tanning cream to dry before putting on loose-fitting clothes.
- Avoid Water and Sweat: Stay away from water, excessive sweating, or tight clothing for at least 6-8 hours.
- Use a Fan or Hairdryer on Cool Setting: This can help speed up the drying process if you’re in a hurry.
Letting your tan dry properly will prevent streaks and smudges, ensuring a flawless glow.
5. Neglecting Maintenance and Aftercare
Many people forget that maintaining their tan is just as important as applying it correctly. If you don’t follow proper aftercare, your tan may fade unevenly or develop patchy areas.
Tips for Maintaining Your Tan:
- Moisturize Daily: Keeping your skin hydrated helps extend the life of your tan and prevents it from flaking.
- Avoid Harsh Soaps and Scrubs: Use mild body washes instead of exfoliating scrubs, which can strip away your tan.
- Pat Dry After Showering: Rubbing with a towel can cause your tan to fade unevenly, so gently pat your skin dry instead.
With proper maintenance, your tan can stay fresh and radiant for longer.
Conclusion
Using tanning cream correctly can give you a flawless, sun-kissed look without the risk of sun damage. By avoiding these five common mistakes—skipping skin preparation, applying too much or too little product, ignoring dry spots, rushing the drying process, and neglecting aftercare—you can achieve a natural, even tan every time.
At So Damn Tanned, we believe in helping you look and feel your best with a perfect glow. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to a beautifully bronzed complexion without any mishaps!
