How To Get A Salon-Worthy Fake Tan At Home. Plus An Exclusive Tanning Discount For STELLAR Readers

The flights are booked and you’re jetting off to sunnier climes. There’s just one snag; all those long winter months hiding under bulky coats and chunky knits, has you looking a tad on the, um, pasty side. Don’t wanna look pale in your bikini? We asked Benefit make-up artist and professional fake tanner Mark Rogers for his top tips on getting a pro-worthy fake tan at home before you jet off.

Preparation

The secret to an even tan starts in the prep steps. First up, you’ll need to get scrubbin’ in your shower. “Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate,” instructs Mark. “It’s so important that there are no dead skin cells. It’s especially necessary to focus on knees and elbows where the skin tends to be dryer.”

Lotions have added oils and will act like a barrier to the tan.

Next up, resist the urge to slap on the moisturiser. “Lotions have added oils and will act like a barrier to the tan,” Mark explains. Instead, “on the day of application wash yourself only with water and don’t use perfumed or scented products as they’ll react with the tan and cause streaks.”

Want the perfect faux glow? Mark says it’s important to look for quality when picking your tan. “Don’t skimp on it,” he recommends. “I know there are a lot of budget brands on the market, but if you want an even application it’s important to get a good quality tan.”

Application

Now it’s time to tan. “Be systematic in your application,” instructs Mark. “Before you begin, make a plan of where on your body you’re tanning, to avoid those dreaded white patches.”

You should apply tanning mousse with a tanning mitt and apply tanning lotion with latex gloves

How you apply depends on the tan you’re using too. As a rule of thumb, “you should apply tanning mousse with a tanning mitt and apply tanning lotion with latex gloves,” Mark clarifies. A pro trick? Apply upwards in circular motions to get it even.

As for orange hands? To avoid tangoed palms “mix the tan with a moisturiser and apply all over hands,” instructs Mark. “Wipe your nails with a baby wipe and then do the same to your palms too.”

Aftercare

Now you’ve got your pre-holiday glow you’ll wanna make it last past touchdown. “Don’t use products with oil as they remove the tan. That includes suncreams too,” Mark explains. “Instead, have a light wash everyday with non-scented products, and avoid using anything fragranced on your skin.”

Still not feeling confident at self-tanning? STELLAR readers can get a professional spray tan with Mark at Benefit Boutique on South William Street, Dublin, for the discounted price of €20 (Full price €30) from now until July 19th. Just quote STELLAR when making your appointment.

• Benefit
• Benefit Boutique
• Bronze
• Fake Tan
• make-up artist
• Mark Rogers
• MUA
• Tan