How to Protect Self-Tans from the Sun

Self-tanning products work because they dye the top layer of your skin with chemicals. It appears to look like a tan. But the color slowly fades away within a week, and you return to your pre-tan look. You can prolong your tan by taking steps to protect it from the sun.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Read the label on the bottle of self-tanner. Even though the basic concept is the same, every brand is formulated different. The label will tell you how often you need to apply the self-tan, whether it's every couple of weeks or every few days.

2. Exfoliate before applying self-tanner so that it lasts as long as possible. By removing the dead skin cells first, you'll extend the life of the tan, even if you're out in the sun.

3. Apply moisturizing lotion to your skin to keep it from drying out. Many self-tanners are drying. You combine that with the sun and your skin will start to look like leather.

4. Slather on the sunscreen or sunblock. Don't assume that your self-tanner has SPF protection in it. Many don't.

5. Know that just because you look tan doesn't mean that you are tan. You will burn if under the sun's rays for too long.

6. Apply the self-tan as often as suggested so your tan stays consistent. There's little worse than being tan one day, white the next, and then tan again.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have dry skin, use a brand with emollients to add moisture to your skin. If you have oily skin, use an alcohol-based self tanner.
• Choose the right sunless tanning lotion for your skin tone. It will look more natural and won't be a really drastic look if and when it fades.