Snookie Orange?!

It goes without saying, that if I'm going to blog about self-tanners, that Jersey Shore's, Snookie will be mentioned.  I know that my spray-tanning salon of choice offered the color "Snookie Dark" on Halloween, bur c'mon now, that was Halloween!  So, today I'm going to explain to you how to get your glow on (minus the streaks and Snookie orange).  I'll also share with you a few of my personal favorite products that I have found to be tried and true.  I promise, you won't walk away looking like an Oompa Loompa.

The first thing you'll want to do is your homework.  Ah ha!  You've come to the right place.  First, decide what kind of sunless tanner will be best for you.  I love to get spray tanned, but at $25 a pop, it can get pricy.   So, what do you like?  Foam?  Lotion?  Tan towel? Aerosol?  I've tried them all and personally have found better results with the foam, tan towels, and aerosols.  The lotion goes on a bit heavier and I have found that to be a greater risk for streakiness.  Besides the product itself, you'll want to look at the color.  And, to be honest, it's a whole heck of a lot easier to build up a tan than to get it rid of one.  Basically, what I'm saying is, start with a lighter color.  Comprehende?

Now, for the steps....

PREP: Prior to applying any self-tanner, it's a good idea to exfoliate and to make sure that your skin is free of other lotions and make-up (don't forget to take off your jewelry!).  How you will apply the product will also depend on the product that you choose to use (whether that be a lotion, foam, tan towel, or aerosol).  However, whenever I apply a self-tanner, I always try to wear gloves to protect my hands.  Generally speaking, the skin around the nail bed and cuticles can tend to be dry, and the product will attract to those areas, which will leave you with orangey fingers.  If I don't have gloves, I always make sure to thoroughly wash my hands after application!  So you'll want to make sure to have a sink nearby if you don't have gloves.  Finally, depending on your choice of self-tanner, you may also want a sponge to help you blend in the product.  

APPLICATION:  When applying the product, I recommend blending it in (either with gloves, a sponge, or your hands) using sweeping circular motions.  It's also easiest if you focus on one body part at a time (left arm, right arm, etc.).  When it comes time for you to "tan" your back, enlisting help from someone you trust will ensure the most even coverage.  If not, just do your best to reach back there (I blend the product from reaching behind my back and then from behind my shoulders).  As you complete the application, make sure to lightly apply the product on the tops of your feet and hands as well as the insides of your arms.  Try and think about what you look like when you naturally tan (Usually your feet, hands, and the insides of your arms are lighter in color).  Don't rush this process or you could be left with streaky handprints!  *The most important thing to remember is to take your time. *  You'll be happier with your end result, I promise. Hint:  During application, it really helps if you pick out a product that has a color guide (color that goes on, but will later rinse off with water and leave behind your "tan").  

POST-APPLICATION:  Let the product absorb into your skin according the product instructions.  During this time, make sure to stay away from water (i.e. rain or showering) or you could risk an uneven streaky tan.  However, once you have let the product absorb and left it on for the recommended activation time (I usually apply the product at night and sleep with it on), go ahead and rinse off (try and stay away from hot water).  Don't exfoliate (this means no loofa!) - it will lessen the life of your tan.  Instead, make sure to moisturize!  This will ultimately increase the life of your bronzed bod.   Now, enjoy your golden glow!  

DISCLAIMER: These are merely suggestions and recommendations from my own personal experience. Keep in mind, that my skin type may be different than yours & your skin may react differently than mine.  Try & self-tan at your own risk.