We all like nicely tanned skin, even in winter. Tanning booths are an option, but doctors do not recommend them. Fake tan is the most effective way to tan in winter. But you need to know how to apply it so that it is not obvious. And you have to use sunscreen.
Most fake tan products contain between 5% and 9% of dihydroxyacetone (DHA), an ingredient extracted from sugar cane. This is a safe product that rarely causes adverse reactions. It is important to buy a quality product that matches your skin tone so that the result is as similar as possible to that of sunbathing in moderation in summer. It is also crucial to avoid the blotches that appear when the fake tan is not properly applied, which happens if you rush the process and do not follow these simple tips:
A. Lightly exfoliate all your skin with a dry towel to remove dead cells and smoothen the surface. Apply moisturizer and allow it to act for about 15 minutes. Pass a dry cloth over your body to remove any excess cream.
B. Apply the fake tan wearing latex gloves, as these will prevent the nails and fingers from getting stained. Apply product sparingly to the elbows and knees, because the skin there is thicker and may absorb too much color.
C. Apply the fake tan focusing on specific areas: legs, stomach, back, arms, etc. Apply the product evenly and make sure to avoid streaking and leaving under- or over-colored areas. It is not a bad idea to get someone to help ensure that application to your back is even.
D. Massage the folds of the wrists and inside the elbows and ankles well so as to achieve a natural look.
E. Wait 20 minutes before dressing so that the fake tan can take effect and dry. Avoid sweating and showering in the four or five hours after application.
F. At the beginning you will need to be patient. The treatment should be repeated three or four times in the first week until the desired tone is achieved. After that, all you need to do is repeat the application once or twice weekly.
G. It is essential to use sunscreen. Fake tan offers no protection at all from the sun’s UV rays. Rather, DHA enhances the release of free radicals and subsequent photoageing. For this reason you should use a sunscreen with SPF-30 and apply it several times daily, especially if you perspire from physical activity.
Source: The Derm Blog
