Your tanning SOLUTIONS
1 I HATE THE SMELL Self-tanners contain DHA, which has an unpleasant odour. These days companies try to mask the DHA smell with essential oils, but every self-tanner we’ve tried has some sort of DHA odour, so if you really can’t stand the smell, your best bet is a wash-off version. UK Brand Isle of Paradise has the least lingering scent we’ve tried.
WE LIKE: Isle of Paradise SelfTanning Drops, $44.
2 I NEED TO GET RID OF PATCHY REMNANTS If you have stained areas or the colour is wearing off unevenly, apply a body oil and leave on for a few minutes before buffing gently with a face cloth. If you have larger areas or you want to remove your tan evenly before reapplying, try a tan eraser product which quickly and effectively exfoliates the top layer of skin using an active ingredient (usually urea). One downside is that it works better on tan that’s been on longer, so it’s less useful if you’ve had an application mishap.
WE LIKE: Bondi Sands Tan Eraser, $25.
3 I WANT TO TAN MY FACE You can use body products on your face but they can be incredibly drying and block pores so it’s best to choose one designed for the job, or stick to applying powder bronzer if you wear make-up. Drops you mix with your daily moisturiser are a good gentle, tentative option.
WE LIKE: Clarins Radiance Plus Golden Glow Booster Face, $50.
4 I DON’T WANT TO STAIN MY SHEETS Choose a product that has no guide colour in it – seeing where you’ve missed a spot can be trickier, but it’ll save those expensive Egyptian cotton sheets.
WE LIKE: Eco Tan Invisible Tan, $42.
5 I WANT AN EVEN APPLICATION Exfoliate and shave the day before application. If you want to avoid tell-tale stained palms and achieve an even, streak-free tan, a velvet tanning mitt is non-negotiable, whether you’re applying a cream or a mousse formula. Dispense the product into the palm of your mitt, scrunch your hand so it spreads across the mitt and then run over your skin, buffing as you go. Use what’s left on the mitt after you’ve done your legs or body to give your hands and feet a light once over. Gradual tanning moisturisers can be rubbed in with your hands, but don’t forget to wash them thoroughly afterwards.
WE LIKE: St Tropez Velvet Luxe Tan Applicator Mitt, $15.