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Ive always loved the look of tan skin, which makes me feel like I just returned from vacation.
Angela Trakoshis
(Im the person at the beach parked under the umbrella, reapplyingsunscreenlike its my full-time job.
I mean, technically it is, since I work forAllure.)
During testing, I patch-tested each tanner on one arm to compare to my other, lesser-tan arm.
Applying the Dolce Glow Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse
(No jokemy fiance can vouch that this self-tanner has none of the tan smell everyone dreads.)
This gives me the most realistic, olive-toned tan Ive ever had from a bottle.
This self-tanner was made to mimic that deep, just-back-from-vacation glow without looking fake.
Applying the Dolce Glow Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse
The program is so smooth and easy.
I use a mitt to blend it, and it glides on like silk without streaks or patchiness.
Plus, the tropical scent upon software makes it enjoyable to apply.
The ingredients are what truly elevate this tanner to be one of the best.
(I use shade medium, which contains green undertones to help balance out any redness I have.)
Why, you ask?
Applying the St. Tropez Self-Tan Supreme Violet
That makes it ideal for maintaining color after a big self-tan session or adding a soft glow from scratch.
After utility, I double-check I wash my hands so I don’t get any tan palms.
The smell of this tanner is super tropicalthink mangos and coconuts.
Once thats done, its time to prep.
Self-tanner sinks into dry skin, leaving dark patches that look unnatural.
Then she recommends tanning the feet with any excess self-tanner from that initial system.
Applying the +Lux Unfiltered N°36 Supernatural Tanning Mousse
Is self-tanner bad for you?
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the active ingredient in most self-tanners is considered safe for topical use.
Overall, self-tanners are a much safer alternative to UV tanning.
Mixing the Isle of Paradise Body Self-Tanning Drops with body cream
How does self-tanner work?
“It’s a typical chemical reaction called the Maillard reaction,” she said.
What should you look for in the best self-tanners?
DHA reacts with the amino acids on the top layer of the skin to provide a gradual tan.
It can be challenging to stabilize, hence the dreaded tangerine tint, cosmetic chemist Randy Schueller previously toldAllure.
How long does self-tanner last?
Here’s the thing: every self-tanner’s longevity depends on its formula and pigment intensity.
Evans previously toldAllurethatfaux tan products typically last between five to 10 days.
All of those treatments can remove self-tanner, Stankiewicz ofLouise O’Connor Salonin New York City toldAllure.
Stankiewicz suggests sloughing dead skin with an oil-free cleanser laced withglycolicorsalicylic acid.
Post-program, err on the safe side when it comes to drying time.
“If the directions say five minutes, wait 10,” Stankiewicz said.
Finally, avoid showering or sweating for six to eight hours.
Can you put self-tanner on your face?
In short: No.
“I would not use body self-tanner on the face,” he previously toldAllure.
“It’s much more comedogenic and oily and can often break you out.”
She advises using an exfoliating mitt on wet skin to lift unwanted color when dealing with patches and streaks.
When reviewing self-tanning products, we also take into account testers' experience levels.
Testers considered performance across three primary categories: efficacy, ease of use, and value.
For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our completereviews process and methodology page.
About our staff and testers
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