It’s cold, I’m pale, and if I cannot be in St. Barts sipping champagne, then it’s time to get glowing, right where I am!
Let’s face it, tan fat is better, especially after the holidays. If you’re like me, I’m always dreading the process of self-tanning and the stinky smell. Ugh.
Sometimes, I’m wearing pants and an asymmetrical blouse and simply need my right arm tan and not my whole body. Other times, it’s just the legs below the knees. You know the drill. Why bother with your whole body if you only need a tan here and there?
As it turns out, there are a lot of options in sunless tanning. You can break them down into five categories:
- Creams and lotions: These are the most common types of sunless tanners and are typically applied to the skin like any other lotion or cream. They can be applied to the face and body and are generally easy to use. Some creams and lotions may have a slight guide color to help with application, but the final color will typically develop over the course of several hours.
- Gels and sprays: Sunless tanning gels and sprays are applied to the skin using a nozzle or spray bottle. These products tend to dry quickly and can be easier to apply to hard-to-reach areas, such as the back. However, they may be more difficult to control and can result in a less even application if not used carefully.
- Mousses and foams: These sunless tanners have the consistency of a mousse and are typically applied using a sponge or mitt. They tend to be easy to apply and produce a natural-looking tan.
- Towelettes: Sunless tanning towelettes are pre-moistened wipes that can be used to apply self-tanner to the skin. They are convenient and easy to use, but may not provide as even coverage as other forms of sunless tanners.
- Gradual tanners: These sunless tanners are designed to be used daily or every other day to gradually build up a tan over time. They are generally less harsh on the skin and can be a good option for those with sensitive skin or for those who are new to self-tanning.
Regardless of the type of sunless tanner you choose, it is important to follow the instructions for use carefully to ensure the best results and to avoid any potential side effects. It is also a good idea to exfoliate the skin before applying a sunless tanner to help ensure an even application.
I’ve tried just about everything, and when I need a full-body tan before a vacation, I’m not going to lie, I do the Versa Sunless Booth, specifically the double legs, dark, pre- and post-moisturizer. It’s approximately $50 and takes about 15 minutes. I’ve found it to be the best overall tan, while being very convenient and private.
When I’m not in need of a full-body tan, I generally use a foam tanner, like Vita Liberata, and apply it with a mitt, which is a game-changer — you must use the tanning mitt! I also use their Body Blur MakeUp to cover age spots on my chest, but remember that makeup will stain, so be careful to apply this away from your clothing.
When I travel somewhere sunny, I always bring along my Farmhouse Fresh Bronze Fox Tanning Drops and Lustre Drench Instant Glow Dry Oil. I love these two products and always get compliments on them. The tanning drops are clear and gradually produce a very realistic tan over a few hours. So, if I apply them just out of the shower in the morning, I’m all set for the evening. They are also great to maintain a spray tan while away on vacation or over the summer. Once dressed and ready, I top off with the Instant Glow Dry Oil, which adds another layer of sun-kissed glow and shimmer.