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Kristen Freeberg: Beginner's Guide to the Perfect Tan

Anytime we try something new weall start in the “beginner” category! When it comes to applying a self tanner, tanning for beginners can be extremely intimidating—so don’t worry, you’re not alone. When I decided to be a first-time self tanning user… I had NO idea what I was doing, where to start, and how to take care of my tan properly. I literally asked questions like, “Where do I start?” and “How do I avoid looking orange?” and even, “When’s the best time to apply self tanner?” 

Don’t worry! I got you covered (literally) answering those very same questions I had when I was trying to figure out self tanning as a beginner myself. So if you are looking for tips and tricks to achieving that perfect glow, you’ve come to the right place to learn all about tanning for beginners, especially sharing what I learned along the way being a self tanning newbie once! Let’s jump right in…

Where do I start as a beginner to self tanning?

It iscrucial that youprep your skin before applying your self tanner the first time and every time after that.

  1. Start the self tanning process by showering and exfoliating your skin. Dove or Aveeno work great. Make sure to pay extra attention to the trouble spots like your elbows, ankles, wrists, knees really good while exfoliating to get the most even and perfect tan. 
  2. After you shower, you need to be completely dry before beginning to apply the self tanner.
  3. Once you are dried off, use yourtanning mitt to apply the tanning mousse. Make sure to move in circulation motions and to blend, blend, blend! (If you need help tanning your back, tanning beginners should check out thisblog post.)

Pro Tip: I like to use exfoliating gloves and a gentle body wash while preparing my skin for self tanning application.

How do I avoid having orange hands and feet when applying self tanner?

This is a common question of many self tanning beginners, but the good news is there is a way to eliminate this fear! When I am using GlowPro Tans tanning mousse, I begin by applying the self tanner directly to the tanning mitt and then to my main areas: legs, arms, stomach, and back. I initially avoid mywrists, ankles and feet since the skin is different in these nooks and crannies, but then with whatever is left on the tanning mitt, I will lightly go over those areas to blend the tan in nicely.

 

Pro Tip: Do not apply self tanner directly to hands and feet, but use the remaining tanning mousse on the tanning mitt after application to larger body areas to avoid an orange look.

When is the best time to apply self tanner?

As a newbie with self tanner, finding the right time to apply self tanner can be stressful. Personally, I like to apply my GlowPro Tans tanning mousse in the evening to allow my tan to set over night.

Pro Tip: Wait at least one hour before crawling into bed to ensure the tanning mousse has dried and will stay on your skin—not your sheets.

How do I maintain my self tan to look good?

This is HUGE for self tanning beginners to learn how to take care of and maintain their tans. I moisturize daily. Use a gentle moisturizing cleanser. Dove or Aveeno are my go-to cleansers. For those who like to spend time at the gym withsweaty workouts, there are a few more tips and tricks for you to keep your self tan glowing.

Pro Tip: Apply the GlowPro Tan’s6% DHA Tan Extending Lotion every few days to keep your tan lasting longer.

What is the best way to ensure an even tan after my first self tanning application?

So, you loved your self tan so much the first time that you want to apply it again? Great! After about 7-10 days, I will load my entire body up with baby oil, let it soak for about 30 minutes, and then hit the shower. I will exfoliate my skin until all of the self tanner is completely off, so I can then apply a fresh layer of self tanner the next day. This helps keep the tan looking flawless every time!

Pro Tip: Follow these steps to exfoliate andprep your skin before application.

Although tanning for beginners can seem a bit daunting, don’t let it scare you away from looking and feeling your best. We all have to start somewhere, and self tanner is no different. Visit GlowPro Tans’full catalog online to get your tanning products now, and get started self tanning!