Fake tan remains a firm favourite across our summer beauty routines, but it can also prove tricky to master and just one mistake could leave you with an uneven or streaky tan. Luckily, there are some easy tips and tricks to follow that can leave you looking like a golden goddess while avoiding any mishaps. Hairtrade.com reveal their best fake tan hacks that are sure to revolutionise your summer…
© Photo: iStockThere are some easy fake tan hacks that could revolutionise your summer beauty routine
1. Plan your hair removal
If you know when you’ll be tanning, always try and wax or shave at least 24 hours before applying. This will give your skin a chance to recuperate after hair removal and will allow the pores to close.
2. Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate
It's the most well-known rule in the book – exfoliating your body from head to toe before applying fake tan couldn't be more important. This prevents the tan from looking uneven around dry skin, as the exfoliator will polish away any dead skin cells.
3. Start in the centre
When applying on the arms, legs, chest and stomach, always remember to start in the middle and work your way outwards using your mitt. This will prevent any darker patches.
© Photo: iStockExfoliation is key to ensuring your fake tan lasts
4. Cover your feet
A clear sign of fake tan is noticeable orange spots on the soles of your feet. To avoid this, try putting gaffer tape across the bottoms of your feet so they are fully covered. This tape is thick, so will keep the tan away from your feet, and it is easy to remove afterwards.
5. Use the right applicators
A tanning mitt is the perfect companion to help you apply your fake tan, but it can be tricky reaching areas such as your back. Try sticking your mitt to the end of a wooden spoon or a backscratcher if you need the extra length.
6. Try contouring
Fake tan isn't just for giving you a glowing complexion – it can also be used to define areas and angles of the body including your abs, bottom, legs and arms. Using a tanning spray, follow the natural curves of your muscles to make them look more defined.
© Photo: iStockWax or shave at least 24 hours before applying fake tan
7. Speed up the drying process
Waiting for your fake tan to dry can be a drag, so speed up the process using your hairdryer on a cool setting. Just lightly blast across the areas you have tanned.
8. Check your hands
Making sure your hands look in tip-top shape after tanning is equally as important. Before applying, use a hand lotion to stop the tan from being absorbed into your palms. After applying, use a make-up wipe to clean your palms and also sweep over your nails and cuticles. This will help prevent orange hands.
9. Wear loose clothing
What you wear after you tan will make or break your finished look. Always remember to opt for loose clothing, such as a light T-shirt and pyjama shorts or bottoms. This will stop any tan from getting absorbed into your clothing and will prevent any unwanted lines on your skin because of tight seams. If you're planning on nipping to the shop, wear flip-flops on your feet.
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