Summer is here and everyone is looking forward to soaking up the sun and getting that perfect tan. However, achieving a golden glow requires some preparation and care. Here are five essential steps to help you get the perfect tan.

1. Exfoliate Your Skin

Before you start your tanning journey, it’s important to exfoliate your skin. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and prepares your skin for an even tan. You can use a gentle scrub or a loofah to exfoliate your body.

Pay special attention to rough areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. For your face, use a facial scrub or a soft brush to exfoliate gently.

2. Hydrate Your Skin

Hydrating your skin is crucial for achieving a long-lasting and even tan. Moisturized skin helps the tanning product to spread evenly and prevents dry patches. Use a good quality moisturizer on your body, paying extra attention to dry areas.

For your face, opt for a lightweight facial moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type. Moisturize your skin daily leading up to your tanning session.

3. Choose the Right Tanning Product

Choosing the right tanning product is essential for getting the perfect tan. There are various options available, including self-tanning lotions, sprays, and mousses. Consider your skin tone and the level of tan you want to achieve.

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If you’re new to self-tanning, start with a gradual tanner to avoid any drastic changes in color. It’s also advisable to do a patch test to ensure you don’t have any allergies or skin reactions to the product.

4. Apply the Tanning Product Correctly

Proper application is the key to achieving a flawless tan. Start by exfoliating and moisturizing your skin as mentioned earlier. Before applying the tanning product, wear a pair of disposable gloves to protect your hands from staining.

Apply the product in circular motions, working your way from your feet up to your neck. Take extra care while applying the tanner to tricky areas like knees, elbows, and ankles to avoid uneven patches. For your face, use a smaller amount of the tanning product and blend it well.

Be gentle around your eyebrows and hairline to achieve a natural look.

5. Maintain Your Tan

Once you’ve achieved your desired tan, it’s important to maintain it for as long as possible. Moisturizing your skin daily is key to keeping your tan looking fresh and vibrant. Avoid hot baths or showers as they can fade your tan quickly.

Use a gentle cleanser and pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it. To extend the life of your tan, you can also use a gradual tanning moisturizer every few days or as needed. Remember to exfoliate your skin gently every week to ensure an even fading process.