There are two things I know to be true about self-tanners. The first thing is that you should really nix the cheap stuff and invest in quality brands. Second— they smell TERRIBLE!
Since I ditched the tanning bed years ago, I have always been on the hunt to find a quality self-tanning lotion. I never had the best luck in finding a brand that didn’t have that stench we all hate. During the summer, I decided to upgrade and purchase the Bondi Sands Dark Self Tanning Foam made in Australia. I’m totally obsessed; this product smells like coconut and vacation— it’s amazing! Today I want to share with you my favorite self-tanning product and my process!
Step One
For the best results, shower and exfoliate your skin prior to self tanning. Avoid any lotion or body products after your shower (you can apply a very light amount of lotion and/or vaseline to your elbows, wrists and knees to avoid extra collection of tanning product). Exfoliating removes dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, unclogs pores and prevents an uneven tan!
Step Two
Pump some of the product in your hand while wearing the Bondi Sands Application Mitt or rubber glove. Apply the product to your skin in circular motions until you have covered your entire body. Use any leftover product for your face and hands. I also like to use a Morphe M438 brush to blend everything in. I got this trick from Jaclyn Hill and it truly helps with blending!
Step Three
For maximum results, leave the product to set on your body for six to eight hours before showering. Do not use a washcloth or a loofah in the shower at the risk of scrubbing off your new tan!
Step Four
Apply lotion after your shower! (and every shower after that). It helps with longevity and locking your tan in. I like to use the ARUBA Coconut Lotion from Bath and Body Works— trying to keep that vacation smell with me!
So that’s my favorite self-tanning brand and routine that I have finally perfected! It can be hard to find the right brand for you, but I love this one. The best part is you truly do not get that “self tan smell” that most brands leave after they dry. Leave it up to Australia to create the perfect tanning products, right?
