Launching the application of a self-tanner can very quickly become a hell: lack of patience, bad technique, unsuitable product, in short, a successful application requires that you control a minimum of this product.

Dominique Rist, expert in the field, enlighten us on the subject.

  • Step 1: carefully erase

Whether it's a cream, mist, mousse or jelly texture, the secret to a self-tanner adhering properly to the skin is to take the time to scrub before each application.

In this way, the dead cells disappear and the skin texture is refined. Thus, our "tan" is more harmonious and more radiant.

No more famous orange traces that would bring to light our subterfuge to look good. The must ? If he adheres better, he will also hold longer. QED.

The trick plus: favor a semi-thick grain scrub and use a kessa glove to apply it in circular motions.

  • Step 2: we hydrate generously

Another essential step for optimal adhesion: hydration. But for the self-tanning product to pose correctly the same day and without marks, hydration must not be greasy.

To do this, apply its moisturizer by smoothing the skin with circular movements.

Finally, apply your day care on the face 10 to 15 minutes before the self-tanner. Another possibility: moisturize your body with an ultra rich texture 24 hours in advance.

The trick in addition: insist on areas where the self-tanner tends to make traces in the image of the elbows or knees.

  • Step 3: we start the application by the face

For an application without demarcations, there are some key gestures.

First, spread the product on the wings of the nose, then on the cheekbones, the cheeks, the forehead and the chin.

In order not to load the contour of the eye, one avoids the eyelids and the eyebrows, as well as the implantation of the hair.

For extra care, you can also apply a moisturizer or petrolatum to these areas. If the pores are dilated, an astringent serum is applied under its day care.

The trick too: if our self-tanning is in the form of foam, we use an old medium-sized makeup brush to apply it. The secret is to make small circular motions to melt it to the skin. And we do not forget the neck.

  • Step 4: The body then

To apply the self-tanning on the body, we start with the feet, then, we go back gradually to the top of the thigh. No need to insist on the folds (ankles, knees, elbows), because the skin is thicker and therefore colors more strongly.

The trick in addition: as for the face, one can bring an old makeup brush for the areas at risk (traces) mentioned above but also the neckline, the top of the hands and feet.

  • Step 5: protect yourself from UV

Even if you use a self-tanning "light", you rinse your hands immediately after application.

Otherwise, we equip ourselves like a pro and put on latex gloves before proceeding with the application. Although the formulas dry up quickly enough, it is best to wait a few minutes before getting dressed and avoid wearing tight pants and a white shirt.

Otherwise, hello marks on the skin and clothes.

Note: the color result is closely related to the pH of the skin. To avoid turning orange, it is stabilized using a soap or a neutral pH shower gel. If the smell of DHA is annoying, use formulas containing oils or plant extracts that mask it.

Finally, we do not give up its sunscreen when we expose ourselves. The self-tanner does not protect the skin, so getting a sunburn is always possible.