Self-Tanning

– Men’s Grooming Guide

As the dark, gloomy winter months come closer, that attractive summer body tan starts fading. This basically leaves you with two options – staying with the pale-looking skin, or simply faking it by making use of self-tanning products. It’s true that there’s nothing wrong with a skin that looks pale; however, who doesn’t like a healthy and more natural skin colour? In recent years, an increasing number of men have exchanged the cumbersome process of baking out in the sun for artificial sprays, bottles, and tubes.

“A tan is the best accessory for any outfit.”

If you are planning to opt for the process of self-tanning, we have listed down a few simple steps to help you bid goodbye to your pale look:

Step 1 - Use an Exfoliator: To begin with, go for thorough scrubbing or exfoliation. Though not an integral part of the self-tanning process, exfoliation does help in removing dead skin cells. For optimal results, apply self-tan products for a clean and healthy skin, which acts as a primer and also ensures that the tanning lasts longer.

Step 2 - Moisturise: Wrists, knees, elbows, heels, and ankles are often the drier regions of a human body. Hence, to allow fake tanners to be absorbed faster, moisturising the dry areas of the body is definitely a better option!

Step 3 – Apply a Self-Tanning Product: When you opt for self-tanners, ensure that you choose the right products. To remain on the safer side, apply a fake tan on a small part of your body. This will help you ascertain whether there is any skin sensitivity and determine the colour of the tan too.

Again, if you’ve been looking for subtle tones, try out gradual tans, which will help you in getting a more natural skin colour.

A Note of Caution: While applying self-tanning products, remain extra-cautious in the hairy areas such as the hairline and the eyebrows. For more trusted results, apply a little moisturiser in the eyebrows and sideburns to protect them completely.

Step 4 - Post-Tanning Care: Self-tanning products often dry up quickly. However, before you put on your favourite white shirt, note that a self-tanning product is completely dry.  

If you go for self-tan, remember that no artificial tanner protects your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. So, DO NOT forget a sunscreen!