How to Get a Perfect Tan at Home (FakeBake Sunless Tanner #Review)

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

I received a product free of charge in order to facilitate this review.  All opinions are my own.

I'm pale.  I used to use the term "fair-skinned" when I was younger, but the truth is - the only time my skin sees the sunlight is in between picking the kids up from daycare and running into the grocery store.  We're talking about the kind of skin color that should only appear in the undead movies, highlighted by a spattering of enough freckles to fill a swimming pool.  I can remember one time in my life when I had an actual tan, but that was from a week in Hawaii when I was 17.

As you can see, I was still pretty pale

My problem is that I burn, peel, and then freckle.  There is no actual tan involved in the process.  Now that I'm older, the dangers of UV rays has fully sunk in and I'm terrified of getting skin cancer.  So, I started using self tanner to achieve a healthy glow without the risks.  I'm happy to share my tips for getting a perfect summer glow using a sunless tanner.

Preparing Your Skin

This sounds scary, but the truth is that preparing your skin for a sunless tanner is pretty easy.  

• Shower (or bathe)

You'll need to have a completely clean canvas to apply your tanner, with no deodorants, fragrances, or oils 

• Shave, don't wax

Waxing leaves the pores open too much and can cause irritation, or an uneven tan.  If you do choose to wax, make sure it's at least 24 hours before applying your tanner.

• Exfoliate

You'll want your skin as smooth as possible before applying a sunless tanner to make sure that your tan comes out evenly.

• Moisturize

Use a moisturizer, preferably an oil free one, on hard to tan areas like your knees, elbows, and heels.  If you have dry skin, you'll want to apply your moisturizer all over right after bathing, and then towel dry any excess off.

Applying the Sunless Tanner

• Choose a self-tanner that works for you.  

I tried the FakeBake Self-Tanning Mousse, which is perfect for my pale, sensitive skin.  It's lightweight and dries super fast, and even has a built-in "color guide" - a darker application color that lets you know exactly where you're applying the tanner so you don't end up with streaks or pale spots.

• Use gloves

Using gloves helps you smooth the tanning mousse evenly, while preventing your hands from absorbing too much color.  FakeBake even comes with a pair of latex gloves to help make this a little easier!

• Start at the bottom and work up, rubbing in a small circular motion

Because FakeBake dries so quickly, it's best to work in small areas, beginning with your ankles and working upwards.  This keeps any weird lines from forming when you bend over.  Save your arms and hands for last.

• Clean up 

Using a towel, buff off any areas that might have gotten extra tanner.  This helps make sure your tan will be as sooth and even as possible.  Wait at least 6 hours before showering so the tanner has time to develop.

What I liked best about FakeBake's Self-Tanning Mousse is that it's easy to apply and doesn't leave any orange-ish tint or streaks.  Since I started using it, my self esteem is definitely higher, and I'm not ashamed to leave the house in shorts.

You can check out FakeBake's complete line at the FakeBake Store and connect with them on Facebook and Twitter.

Disclaimer: I received the aforementioned product in exchange for an honest review.  No other compensation was received.  All opinions are my own and may not reflect those of others.