Bestsellers for Self-Tanning & Bronzing
Stepping into the world of self-tanning can be exciting and a bit overwhelming, especially if your teen is new to makeup and skincare. It's not just about picking a product off the shelf; it involves understanding what type suits their skin best, mastering techniques for an even glow, and maintaining that sun-kissed look without damaging skin. Whether your teen is aiming for a subtle bronze or a deeper tan, this guide will walk you both through choosing and applying the right tanner at Ulta Beauty.
Understanding Different Types of Self-Tanners
Navigating the array of self-tanners can feel daunting at first. Each type offers a unique application method and result, so it's important to select one that aligns with your teen's desired level of tan and skin's needs. From lotions that hydrate to mists that offer a quick-dry solution, understanding the differences between self-tanning products is key to achieving a natural-looking tan.
- Lotions and Creams: These are perfect for beginners due to their easy-to-spread, buildable formula, which minimizes streaks. Lotions and creams often contain moisturizers, which keep the skin hydrated while the tan develops.
Mousses: Mousses are lightweight and typically dry faster than lotions or creams. They're great for those with a bit more self-tanning experience, as they require quick work to avoid unevenness but provide a deeper color quicker.
Sprays and Mists: If your teen will apply self-tanner without help, sprays and mists make achieving a consistent, even tan in hard-to-reach places easier. They also dry quickly, making them convenient for those on the go.
Towelettes: Towelettes are pre-soaked in a tanning solution, offering a no-mess, travel-friendly application. They're best for touch-ups or a subtle glow but may require practice to apply evenly over larger areas.
Serums and Drops: These can be mixed with your teen's regular skincare products, allowing them to start subtly and customize the intensity of their tan. They're suitable for face and body use, providing a versatile option for those looking to incorporate tanning into their daily routine.
How to Prep Skin Before Self-Tanning
Proper skin preparation is essential for achieving a flawless self-tan. It ensures the product applies evenly, lasts longer, and looks as natural as possible. Here's how your teen should prep their skin before applying self-tanner:
Exfoliate: Use a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin cells. This step prevents patchiness and helps achieve an even tan. Focus on areas with rougher skin, such as knees, elbows, and ankles.
Shave: If your teen plans to shave, do it a day before applying self-tanner. Shaving on the same day can open pores, leading to an uneven application.
Moisturize: Apply a light moisturizer to dry areas like hands, feet, elbows, and knees. Moisturizing these areas prevents the tanner from absorbing too much and turning those spots darker than the rest of your body.
Avoid Deodorants and Perfumes: Before application, ensure skin is free from deodorants, perfumes, or any products that might create a barrier between the skin and the tanner.
Wear Gloves or a Tanning Mitt: When applying the product, wear gloves or a tanning mitt to avoid orange palms. This tool also helps distribute the tanner more evenly.
Patch Test: Do a patch test 24 hours before full application to ensure your teen doesn't react negatively to the product. This is especially important for teen's with sensitive skin.
By following these steps, you're setting your teen up for success with their self-tanning routine. Remember, taking care of the skin doesn't stop after applying tanner; maintaining hydration with regular moisturizing will keep your tan looking fresh and extend its longevity.
Step-by-Step Guide on Applying Tanners
Applying self-tanner might seem tricky, but your teen can achieve a streak-free, natural-looking tan with the right steps. The key is to work quickly and efficiently, ensuring the product is evenly spread. Here's a straightforward guide to help your teen master the application process:
Choose Your Environment: Start in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes, especially when using sprays or mists. A bathroom with a fan or an open window is ideal.
Apply in Sections: Work in sections (arms, legs, torso, back) and apply the tanner one at a time. This method ensures thorough coverage and prevents missing spots.
Use Circular Motions: Blend the product in small circular motions using your hands, a mitt, or another applicator. This technique helps distribute the tanner evenly and avoids streaks.
Be Light on Joints: Knees, elbows, ankles, and wrists tend to absorb more product, leading to darker areas. Apply sparingly on these joints or use a damp cloth to lightly dab after application for an even tone.
Don't Forget Your Back: For hard-to-reach areas, either use a spray with a 360-degree nozzle or enlist the help of someone else to ensure even application.
Wait Before Dressing: To avoid staining clothes, allow the tanner to dry completely before wearing them. Follow the product's recommended drying time, which usually ranges from 10 minutes to an hour.
Wash Your Hands: Wash hands immediately after application with soap and water to prevent orange palms.
Moisturize Daily: After your tan has developed (usually within 6-8 hours), keep skin hydrated by applying moisturizer daily. This step helps prolong a self-tan and keeps skin looking healthy.
By following these steps carefully, your teen can enjoy a beautiful tan without any telltale signs of self-tanning gone wrong. Remember that practice makes perfect; remind them not to get discouraged if their first attempt isn't flawless. With each try, they'll get better at achieving that sun-kissed glow safely at home.
Caring For A Self-Tan: Do's and Don'ts
Maintaining a self-tan requires a balance of the right practices and products to ensure it lasts longer and fades evenly. Here are some essential do's and don'ts to help your teen care for your tan effectively.
Do's:
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and moisturize your skin daily. Hydrated skin retains a tan better and helps it fade evenly.
Use Gentle Skin Care Products: Opt for mild, hydrating body washes after tanning and avoid harsh exfoliants or scrubs. This prevents premature fading.
Pat Dry: After showering, gently dry your skin with a towel by patting it instead of rubbing it, which may remove your tan.
Apply Sunscreen: Protecting skin from the sun is crucial. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent sun damage.
Wear Loose Clothing: After applying self-tanner and during its development time, wear loose, dark clothing to avoid streaks or stains.
Don'ts:
Avoid Long Baths: Soaking in water for extended periods can cause a self-tan to fade faster. Stick to quick showers.
Skip Chlorine Pools: Chlorinated water can strip away self-tanner. Limit pool time or shower immediately after swimming to minimize the effect.
Don't Apply Perfumes Directly on Skin: Spraying perfumes or alcohol-based products directly on tanned skin can cause patchiness. Instead, apply them to clothes.
Avoid Waxing: Waxing exfoliates the top layer of your skin, likely removing any self-tanner. If necessary, wax before applying self-tanner.
By following these guidelines, your teen will enjoy a beautiful glow for longer. Remember, taking care of tanned skin doesn't have to be complicated; just a few adjustments to their regular skincare routine can make all the difference.
Ulta Beauty Buying Guide
Self-tanning and bronzing products offer a safe and convenient way to achieve a natural-looking tan without the harmful effects of UV rays. These products come in various forms, including foams, mousses, lotions, and sprays, allowing you to choose the application method that works best for you. When selecting a self-tanning or bronzing product, consider factors such as your skin type, desired level of color, and any additional skincare benefits you may be looking for. Look for products that are formulated with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera to keep your skin moisturized and nourished. Additionally, consider whether you want a product that offers instant color or one that gradually develops over time. Finally, don't forget to read reviews and check for any potential allergens or irritants in the product's ingredients list. With the right self-tanning or bronzing product, you can achieve a beautiful, sun-kissed glow all year round. Here are some products we recommend.
Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse
Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse from St. Tropez is a great product for achieving a natural-looking tan with ease. It is tinted, easy-to-apply, and streak-free, and it wears for up to 10 days without any self tan smell. Its formula adapts to your skin tone for a personalized look.
- Provides a natural-looking, sun-kissed glow without the harmful UV rays
- The mousse formula allows for easy application and even coverage
- Dries quickly, allowing you to dress shortly after application
- Long-lasting tan that fades evenly and subtly over time
- Infused with nourishing ingredients to promote a healthy skin
- Perfect for all skin tones, offering a customizable level of tan
- Leaves a refreshing scent, unlike many other self-tanners
Salon Quality Self Tanning Foam
This Salon Quality Self Tanning Foam from Bondi Sands is a great choice for achieving a sun-kissed tan, as it is enriched with aloe vera and has a delightful coconut scent. It is lightweight and easy to apply, leaving your skin glowing like you've spent the day at the beach. Plus, it's salon quality so you know it will last!
- Provides a natural-looking tan that many users love
- Easy to apply with its foam texture, making the tanning process smoother
- Offers a long-lasting tan, reducing the need for frequent reapplications
- Comes with a pleasant scent, unlike some other self-tanning products
- Suitable for all skin types, ensuring versatility and wide usability
- Dries quickly and doesn't leave any sticky residue, offering a clean and comfortable tanning experience
- Considered as a high-quality product comparable to salon tans, but at a more affordable price
Deluxe Bronzing Mousse
Deluxe Bronzing Mousse gives users a natural-looking, streak-free tan quickly.
Deluxe Bronzing Mousse is an ideal product for those looking to get a sun-kissed glow in minutes. It is easy to use and provides an even, streak-free coverage that looks natural. The mousse formula also allows you to build up the colour intensity as desired for a deeper, darker tan. Additionally, it has a pleasant scent making it even more enjoyable to use.
- Provides a natural-looking tan that users love.
- The mousse is easy to apply and dries quickly, allowing for a hassle-free application.
- Users have praised the long-lasting effect of the bronzing mousse.
- Many have appreciated its non-sticky texture, making it comfortable to wear all day.
- The product has a pleasant scent, unlike many other self-tanning products.
- It's suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, according to user reviews.
- Users appreciate the luxurious packaging, enhancing the overall experience of using the product.
FAQ
Can you get a natural tan or sunburn while wearing self-tanner?
Yes, self-tanners do not block the sun's rays. While they provide a tan appearance, they offer no protection from UV radiation. It's crucial to apply sunscreen when spending time outdoors to protect your skin from sun damage.
How do I choose the right shade of self-tanner?
Select a shade that complements your natural skin tone. If you're fair-skinned, start with a lighter shade to avoid an unnatural look. A deeper shade or buildable layers can provide a more vibrant tan for medium to dark skin tones. Test products on a small area to see the developed color.
How long should I wait to shower after applying self-tanner?
Wait at least 6-8 hours before showering to allow the self-tanner to develop fully. Showering too soon can cause the tan to streak or fade unevenly.
Can I use a self-tanner on my face?
Yes, there are self-tanners formulated for facial use. These are designed to be non-comedogenic and gentle on sensitive skin. For a subtle look, consider mixing facial tanner with your regular moisturizer.
How often should I reapply self-tanner?
To maintain your tan, reapply self-tanner every 3-7 days. The frequency will depend on your product, skin type, and desired tan intensity. Exfoliating before each reapplication ensures an even, long-lasting tan.
Will swimming affect a self-tan?
Chlorine and salt water can cause your tan to fade faster. Rinse off with fresh water after swimming and apply moisturizer to help extend the life of your tan.
Is it okay to use self-tanner with acne-prone skin?
If you have acne-prone skin, choose a non-comedogenic self-tanner to avoid clogging pores. Before full application, patch test an inconspicuous area to check for any adverse reaction.
How can I fix streaks or patches after self-tanning?
Gently exfoliate the areas with streaks or patches to even out the tan. For darker spots, a little lemon juice applied to a cotton pad can help lighten the tan. If needed, apply additional tanner carefully to lighter areas.
Can I use body lotion before applying self-tanner?
To prevent dark patches, apply a light moisturizer to dry areas like knees, elbows, and ankles just before tanning. Avoid applying lotion to the entire body, as it can prevent the tanner from absorbing evenly.
How do I protect my nails from staining during self-tan application?
Apply some petroleum jelly to your nails and cuticles before using self-tanner. This barrier prevents the product from staining your nails. Wash your hands thoroughly after application if you are not using gloves or a tanning mitt.
