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Sun-tanning and
tanning salons cause damage to your skin which
can accumulate throughout the years making your
skin look older and more susceptible to skin
cancer. A healthier alternative is self-tanning.
Self-tanning products work by darkening the skin
through a chemical reaction when they come in
contact with dead skin cells and do not damage
healthy skin cells as the sun and uv light does.
Before buying a new self tanner, test swipe or
spray - this will give you an idea about the
color before your purchase.
For best results, scrub your skin in the shower
with a loofah. Wait until your skin is dry
before applying the self tanner.
TIPS:
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Moisturize your
body after the shower and wait until
skin dries - this will give a nice
subtle look.
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Use a light or
medium shade tanner because it's easier
to darken a tan than lighten it.
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When you apply the
tanner, use it sparingly on your toes
and around the ankles to prevent
blotches. |
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Remember that
thick skinned areas such as elbows and
knees absorb more than other parts of
your body, so do not apply too much
there. |
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Apply a mixture of
self-tanner and body lotion to those
rough areas.
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To maintain your
tan, apply a light layer every three to
four days and don't forget to moisturize
your skin regularly.
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Tanning Lotion:
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Best for dry skin
because they contain hydrating
ingredients. Lotions tend to last longer
as they contain more concentrated
pigments. |
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When applying a
tanning lotion, use a quarter-sized
amount at a time. Massage it in with
long strokes.
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Tanning Gel:
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Gels are best for
oily skin. They glide on smoothly and
will not clog pores or cause breakouts
because they are light and non-greasy.
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Apply just like
tanning lotions.
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Tanning Sprays:
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These are best for
first time tanners. Tanning sprays give
a natural, nice look, and as long as you
spray in long, even strokes, application
is very easy and smooth. TIP: Sprays are
great for correcting blotches caused by
other tanning products.
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When applying,
hold spray nozzle at least six inches
from your skin. After spraying, use your
hand to distribute it evenly.
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Tanning Mousse:
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They provide
instant gratification. Tanning mousse
offers the most control over the amount
used because you can see immediate
results. |
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Use a golf-ball
size amount at a time, apply in
vertical, then horizontal strokes for
even distribution.
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By Beverly Smith
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Skin & Body |
