It’s been a few weeks since we last touched base on all the “5 things” series and I have to admit our last venting session was my most favorite yet… reading your pet peeves helped me to realize we are ALL crazy and it’s OK to embrace the things that might seem a little bit odd and strange to others. That being said, today I’m excited to share 5 ways to get the best fake tan during these winter months or even year round!
Sequin Blazer | Pleated Top | Gold + White Clay Earrings | Big Love Sunglasses
As for today, I know I am not a connoisseur on much, but this gal does know all the details on how to get that fabulous looking faux glow. After spray tanning and wiping on the goods for a LONG time, I’ve found an area of expertise that I can share my wealth of knowledge and insight on = first world problems, but there is something about having a bit of color to my skin that helps me feel better about myself and so if that’s your case, too then read on my friends…
How to get the Best Fake Tan
Plus, the holidays call for lots of photoshoot and picture prep, so it’s perfect timing to help get your best faux glow yet:
ONE. Prep the Skin
So many people don’t think about what to do before they put on a faux glow, but it’s SUPER important to be sure to shave, exfoliate and scrub away any other “color” on your skin prior to application. Be sure to focus on the driest areas as well — the elbows, knees, hands and feet for sure! Another tip: shave the day BEFORE you apply self tanner… this will help prevent inflammation and give you that long lasting color.
I love this Exfoliating Sugar Scrub because it smells great, works to remove any excess dirt/oil from my skin and primes the palette perfectly! You can also score it for 15% off with my code NASHVILLETASH. And be sure to apply with exfoliating gloves for a soft and even-skinned canvas.
TWO. Find Your Perfect Match
Yes, this can be the hardest part and I cannot tell you how many products I’ve tried and tested over the years trying to find that PERFECT dark tan without streaking, looking orange or smelling like a total spray tan booth. So take my advice for what it’s worth but I assure you I’ve done ALL the due diligence and hands down these are my favorites specific to each area/need…
ALSO, keep in mind there are different shades of color for various skin types and tones… be sure to read the bottle and actually follow the instructions for the best application methods to avoid a mess! Another note that has served me well… start small and build up your tan, it will look far more natural to gain color gradually.
THREE. My Must-Have Products
Favorite Overall Body Product: Loving Tan Mousse in Ultra Dark | no orange look, easy to apply with great long-lasting color, this lightweight mousse gives you natural olive toned application with instant bronzing to show where you’ve applied… it also dries super quickly and develops into a deeper tan within a few hours without feelng sticky. Hands down my #1 body recommendation for all over application. Looking for something even faster?? Check out their 2-hour express option as well. P.S. use their applicator mitt which I love = easy peasy and the perfect way to apply!
Favorite Face Product: Tan Luxe Face Drops | I began using these gradual tan face drops a few months ago when I placed my first Tan Luxe order and I’ve been a big fan ever since. Even if you forego your tan in the winter, I always advise adding a few of these to your daily moisturizer for a bit of sunkissed, bronze glow… no winter blues over here! The more drops you add, the darker your color will be = I usually use two drops every few days. Just be sure to apply in a circular motion AND then wash your hands immediately after!!
Favorite Gradual Lotion: Tan Luxe Illuminating Body Butter | So good you’re going to want to grab the jumbo size of this gradual moisturizer… one thing I love is the quick dry formula for this thick body butter. It’s a great hydrator for your skin, but gradually evens out your skin tones and provides a bit of bronzed color that also helps reduce the appearance of cellulite. Again, apply in circular motions over your body and then allow 4-6 hours to develop [i.e. another good product to put on at night before bed and wash off in the shower the next morning]. If I am looking for subtle color, I apply this every 3-4 days.
Favorite Instant Body Makeup: Tarte Shape Tape Body Makeup | Finally, if you’re looking for INSTANT color when you realize you’re looking like Casper, this is my #1 recommendation for easy-to-apply body makeup that doesn’t rub off on your clothes AND is waterproof [rainy days don’t stand a chance!]. I use shade TAN and cannot say enough great things about this product… it evens out any blemishes/spots/veins and totally makes you look like you just left the beach. And yes, it’s totally appropriate to apply all over so your skin glows immediately! Even better, use code NATASHA for 20% off at Tarte, too.
FIVE. Moisturize and Reapply as Necessary
Now just like we talked about up above, you want to make sure to keep your skin hydrated and moisturized so that your tan LASTS! My favorite post-sunless product to moisturize with is this Cake Butter Lotion [again 20% off with code NATASHA]. It’s great in that it glides on easily with a thicker consistency, ensuring your tan stays put. As always, be sure to avoid body washes with exfoliants as they can shorten the life of your faux glow…
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