How to Use a Self-Tanner on Your Face Instead of Wearing Makeup

Self-tanner gives your skin a healthy glow.

Applying harsh makeup to your face every day can prematurely age your skin. Using self-tanner instead will protect your delicate facial skin because you only apply it a few days a week, which also saves you time. Self-tanner gives your skin the appearance of a healthy, sun-kissed glow without exposing your face to the sun.

Things You'll Need

• Hair tie (optional)
• Exfoliating facial cleanser
• 2 clean face towels
• Lighted makeup mirror
• Petroleum jelly
• Liquid self-tanner with moisturizer

Instructions

1. Tie your hair back to prevent it from touching your facial cleanser or self-tanner.

2. Wash your hands to prevent lotion, dirt and oil transfer.

3. Apply a silver dollar-sized amount of facial cleanser to a towel to wash your face and neck to remove makeup, excess oil, and dirt. The exfoliating agent in the cleanser removes dead skill cells. Let your skin dry.

4. Apply a moisturizer lotion, which provides a malleable surface suitable for the tint. According to Web MD, some tanners have a built-in moisturizing lotion, which helps you see which areas have been moisturized and tinted; however, if yours does not, this step is essential to maintain healthy skin.

5. Apply petroleum jelly to your lips and eyelids to prevent them from tinting. Another option is to have a clean, damp cloth readily available to immediately wipe areas mistakenly exposed to the tanner.

6. Apply self-tanner evenly to your face and neck using your fingertips, a tissue or a damp sponge, which help absorbs the excess liquid. Use the sponge to smooth the lotion evenly around your nose, under your eyes and around your lips to ensure even color.

7. Look at your reflection to detect streaks. Use a clean, dark cloth to buff darker areas and even out your tan. Let your skin air dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a combination tanner and moisturizer lotion to save time.

• Use the self-tanner daily until you achieve the desired tone, then use approximately three times per week.

• Wash your hands immediately after application to prevent staining.

• Allow tanner to dry before getting dressed.

• Self-tanner will not protect you from UV rays, so apply sunscreen whenever you step outside.

References

• Webmd.com: Self-Tanning Products and Benefits, How to Avoid Looking Orange and Streaky