Face Self-tanners and Bronzers

Maintaining a tan all year round is possible with facial self-tanners

In recent years, there has been a surge in the demand for self-tanners . Users want to achieve a perfect tan without spending long hours in the sun, either due to lack of time or the potential damage caused by excessive sun exposure.

Self-tanners are the ideal product for achieving a tan without damaging your skin. These products don't tan or dye the skin; instead, they work by oxidizing its outer layer, providing a golden color.

Self-tanners typically don't contain sun protection factor (SPF), so if you use these products, you should always use sunscreen to protect yourself from ultraviolet rays. However, they usually include ingredients that moisturize the skin.

Self-tanners have a specific duration, depending on the type of product; they can last from hours to even weeks. Therefore, we must choose the product that best suits our needs.

How to apply a facial self-tanner

Using a self-tanning product requires a series of steps to achieve the best results, regardless of its texture:

• The day before applying self-tanning product, exfoliate the area to be treated. This will help the product penetrate the skin better and result in a more even color. Exfoliation will also help remove any remaining makeup.
• In drier areas, such as around the nostrils, apply a moisturizer. These areas absorb more product than others and can develop blemishes; using moisturizer will prevent uneven tanning.
• The exfoliants and moisturizers used must be oil-free formulations; this ensures that the self-tanning product can properly penetrate the skin and fulfill its function.
• With clean, dry hands, apply the self-tanning product evenly to your face, making sure to cover all areas. Focus on applying it to your forehead, cheeks, chin, and nose, as these areas tend to tan more easily. Avoid applying the product to your eyebrows or eyelids, and use less product around your nostrils and lips to prevent them from becoming darker.
• Once you've applied the tanning cream , you need to thoroughly clean your hands of the product. This will prevent your hands from tanning as well.
• To prolong the effect of a tan, we must apply a moisturizing treatment every day, to help slow down the appearance of dead skin cells, and consequently, the disappearance of the tan.
• It's also advisable to avoid wearing makeup for the first few hours if you've applied a self-tanning product. These types of products don't usually stain if applied correctly. Stains appear as the product fades.

To remove the tanning product, simply wash your face with soap and water. If the product is long-lasting, you should use an exfoliant to completely remove it.

Types of facial self-tanners

Currently, self-tanners are available in a variety of formats and textures. Below, we'll explain which type of product to use.

• Self-tanning wipes : these are the easiest format to apply and it's simpler to apply the product evenly. They are often recommended as a first introduction to tanning products.
• Self-tanning creams : These are the most common and usually contain moisturizing ingredients. They are recommended for mature and dry skin.
• Bronzing gels or mousses : provide shine and greater color coverage to our skin. They are recommended for oily or combination skin.
• Self-tanning spray : it's easy to apply, but be careful not to get it on the surrounding area. Also, make sure your skin tone is suitable.
• Bronzing powder : This cosmetic, similar to makeup, gives your face a natural tan. It can be used as a complement to makeup and is typically used for darker skin tones.