With the recent spell of beautiful sunshine most of us dug out our summer clothes & found our skin looking a little dull and lacking the healthy glow we would like. We now know that any change in skin colour caused by the sun is actually harmful but a “healthy” tan is so flattering. So, this month I decided to talk self tan and all the options. This ended up being a longer topic than expected as there are so many options & I am sure, one to suit everyone. 

A lot of self tans contain the chemical DHA which reacts with amino acids in the skin to produce the colour, this can happen quickly with DHA products causing the slightly orange effect. 

As the top layers of our skin compromise of dead skin cells any self tan will only last a week. This colouring gives no protection from the sun and an SPF should also be used. 

The guidance on applying self tans is generally the same & is as follows-

1. Wax or shave 2 days before application as both these exfoliate the skin.

2. Use an exfoliating mitt either the day before or the morning of the self tan application.

3. Here I will describe how to apply Tropic Sun Drench self tan. Sun Drench does not contain DHA but contains plant allo-melanin which replicates your natural colour giving a natural looking tan.

Using a tanning mitt apply sun drench in circular motions to dry, unmoisturised skin, buff off edges of feet and behind the knees. Use the leftover product on the mitt to go over heels, wrists & elbows (areas where the tan can cling & be darker).

4. Leave the tan on overnight and shower in the morning. No product will be left on your sheets. 

If this just sounds too scary then explore the alternatives below to create a gradual tan and is also a great way to maintain a self tan. 

1. Moisturise daily with Tropic Summer Sun, this is a gradual tanning lotion with mango butter & coconut oil to brighten & moisturise the skin. If you are only using Summer Sun to achieve a gradual tan then exfoliate before the first application.

2. Every 2 or 3 days gently exfoliate to remove dead skin cells. If your tan fades and you want a darker colour then re apply Sun Drench. 

If you just want to add a little extra colour to your face then you can just add a few drops of Tropic Sun Drops. The colour can be completely controlled by the number of drops you use. 

But if you just need an instant colour then Instant Glow is a wash off bronzing serum which gives instant colour and again you can build the shade you desire by layering up the application. 

 I am always happy to help with any queries & have products for you to try or Tropic always have a 30 day return policy.

www.tropicskincare.com/juliegriffin