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I sunless tan all year round, but my routine in the summer is a bit different because it's all about maintenance and limiting my sun exposure.
While I always incorporate SPF to protect my skin, I also want a nice sunless tan that lasts me all season long! I’ve tried a ton of different products, but I have been on the hunt for years to find products that a) don’t have a gross self-tanning scent, b) don’t streak, and c) don't turn you orange. It took me a while to master the application process as well, and to find products that mix well with self-tanner for a really natural distribution.
I am not a fan of wearing makeup when I get hot, especially in the summer, so I love self-tanning products because they give you a sun-kissed glow without using foundation or bronzer. Today, I'm sharing my step-by-step sunless tanning routine and my go-to products.
I like to do my body routine before bed so I don’t have to worry about my clothing messing up the tan. But, if you are doing it during the day, these products do not streak or get on your clothes! I do this routine every 2-3 days, especially in the summer to maintain a sun-kissed glow.
Step 1: Exfoliate your body in the shower using body wash and an exfoliating mitt or brush.
Step 2: Pat dry.
Step 3: I use + Lux Unfiltered No.32 Gradual Self-Tanning Cream most frequently on my body, but I also The Gradual Tan Lotion from Tan-Luxe regularly as well. Rub the product onto your body in circular motions–I start at my feet and move upward so that nothing streaks while applying.
Step 4: Wash hands thoroughly after applying. If I wake up with any darker patches, I use Tan-Luxe's Glyco Water Tan Remover to lighten the area.
I have an entirely separate routine for my face! I apply sunless tanning products to my face after a shower, usually every 2-3 days.
Step 1: I start by cleansing my face thoroughly using an everyday cleanser by Cerave, followed by a toner–I love this one by Mario Badescu.
Step 2: Pat dry.
Step 3: I mix 3-4 drops of Tan-Luxe's The Face Illuminating Self Tan Drops with my moisturizer and 1 or 2 drops of face oil to make sure it mixes and blends evenly on my face. Make sure you cover your neck, underneath your chin, and the area by your ears, so everything is evenly distributed!
Step 4: Wash hands thoroughly after. If I wake up with any darker patches, I use the Glyco Water Tan Remover from Tan-Luxe to lighten the area.
