GOLDEN HOUR

To nail that bronzed glow, there are fake tan rules every woman must follow.

Whether you follow the ritual of “Tanning Thursday” or are more of a spray tan devotee, the most important thing is to prep your skin before application. We all know we should exfoliate and moisturise our skin, but what’s the best method to ensure our fake tan goes on smoothly, and most importantly, stays on longer?

We asked salon owner Olivia Foley, of Allure Beauty and Nail Spa, who is nominated in the Best Tanning Professional category at the IMAGE Business of Beauty Awards 2020, powered by Dyson, for her insider tips.

1

PREPARATION IS KEY

Keep your skin well prepped by moisturising every day. A few days before applying fake tan, exfoliate your skin all over. When it comes to the day of applying fake tan, it’s important that you don’t exfoliate, spray deodorant or apply any body lotion (except for hands and feet). This will affect the application process. You should ensure all hair removal and tinting is done at least 24 hours before tanning.

2

BOTTOMS UP!

If applying tan at home, work from the feet up. Apply a moisturiser to hands and feet as these are places tan clings to. Use a brush to apply tan to these areas. If you’re opting for a spray tan, wait at least six to eight hours before showering. Remove all guide colour in the shower. Moisturise your skin after the shower to keep your tan looking its best.

3

DON’T FORGET YOUR FACE

I always recommend tanning the face lightly. Fake tan will fade quite quickly from your face but it can be topped up after a couple of days. Using a brush on your face will ensure a light base.

4

FADE OUT

As your tan starts to fade, begin exfoliating the skin gently to help even removal. The last thing you want is patchy tan!

Allure Beauty and Nail Spa in Drumcondra, Dublin, offers spray tans using Bellamianta, Dripping Gold, HeShi and Catwalk HQ. If you can’t quite commit to the full fake tan prep yourself, the salon also offers waxing, facials and eyelash extensions as well as manicures, pedicures and eyebrow treatments.

For more details on the IMAGE Business of Beauty Awards 2020, powered by Dyson, see bob.image.ie.