Skin Prep For the Perfect At-Home Tan

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I have graced the bikini stage in the bodybuilding world for about a decade.  As I have gone along, I have tested, tried, and got getting stage ready down to a science.  This includes tips and tricks that I still use today when doing a self-tanner at-home.  The below steps help me have an even, dark, and long lasting tan every time.

  1. Shower & Shave:  Enjoy a nice long shower and give yourself time to shave.  Shaving is a way to start the exfoliating process.  Most shave gels/creams/lotions leave a residue, so use a soap without any oils in it after you shave.  I like to use a Japanese washcloth with a little soap on it.  Liquid Dial is great as well as Liquid Sun Rayz pH Balancing Body Wash.
  2. Balance & Exfoliate:  If you use a pH balancing soap like the one mentioned above, you can skip this step.  Our body requires balance to function.  This includes the pH of the skin.  To help buffer your skin, I suggest using Baking Soda.  Not only does it help with pH, it is also a gentle exfoliator that can be used on even the most sensitive areas.  I pour a little soap in my palm and about the same amount of Baking Soda and rub all over.  Pay special attention to areas like the arm pits, knees, ankles, heels, and groin area.  Make sure to rinse really well!  You want to stay away from scrubs that have oils [many do!] as well as exfoliators like walnut shells.  These are harsh and can cause more harm than good to the skin.
  3. Products:  Dry off and get your tan mitt (I like skinerals mitt found on Amazon) & product ready.  I really like Bondi Sands Ultra Dark.  I have used Jantana, Pro Tan, and Liquid Sunrayz at-home products and nothing compares to Bondi Sands.  Let's keep the competition tan on the stage!
  4. Application:  I like to start from the feet up this way you don't crease at the stomach or accidentally swipe color away.  Go slow and get a rhythm going!  Long, gentle swipes up avoiding places like ankles, knees, elbows.  Make sure majority of the product is off the mitt before working in those areas-they like to soak up the solution!  Work your body in sections: Legs, hips & glutes, stomach, back, chest, arms. . .you may need help with the middle back, so invite a friend whom you are comfortable with.  I prefer the naked approach but wearing small undies is also an option.
  5. More color!:  If you want to do another layer, make sure you are completely dry otherwise you will wipe off or make splotches on the first coat.  Sleep in your color. . .wear baggy clothing that does not hug the skin too much.  NO TANK TOPS  If you are worried about color transfer on blankets or sheets, sleep with other bedding just for the night.
  6. Good morning tan:  In the morning, you will want to shower off.  Do not use a wash cloth, loufa, mitt, or anything that is going to rub harshly.  I use my hand and some of the same soap from the night before.  Some color will come off-not to worry!  Pat dry, moisturize, and enjoy your new tan!  Repeat this process about every 7-10 days for a crisp, natural looking tan all year round!

Questions about products, steps, or want to share some tricks that have helped you-comment below!

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