Health: Self-tanning Is Only Way To Tan

Tanning beds are a huge no-no, but it is nice to have a little glow for prom. The safest alternative is using a sunless tanner, also known as a self-tanning lotion. They deliver colour that typically lasts three to five days and, unlike tanning beds, there aren't any dangerous ultraviolet rays involved. Instead the lotions are usually made up of common ingredients you find in most regular moisturizers.

Here are the steps to achieving a perfect sunless tan:

1. Exfoliate

Use a body scrub to remove dead skin. This will help the self-tanner spread on smoothly and will make your colour last longer. Pay extra attention to rough areas like elbows, knees, wrists, ankles and feet!

2. Defuzz

Shaving helps get skin even smoother. Do it the day before applying your self-tanner, not after, to avoid removing some of your colour.

3. Take your time

Don't apply self-tanner when you're in a hurry. A rush job can cause streaks, and you may even miss spots. Apply the lotion two or three days before your prom night, and let it dry completely before redressing.

4. Rub, rub, rub

Blend the lotion into your skin using a circular motion (to avoid streaks) and in different directions (to avoid missing a spot). It's also best to start at your feet and work your way up methodically - bottom to top, left to right - so you cover all ground. A foam lotion, like Jergens Natural Glow Foaming Daily Moisturizer, makes streaks and missed spots much less likely.

6. Scrub, scrub, scrub

Wash your hands right after you're done applying. Orange palms are a giveaway that your tan isn't from the sun.

7. Waiting game

After applying, hold off for at least eight hours before showering, sweating or wearing tight-fitting clothes. Your glow will be worth the wait!

We're lovin' the latest sunless tanners from Jergens. Their line of Natural Glow products has just expanded to include a Foaming Daily Moisturizer, which will help you get great coverage, and they've updated the Face Daily Moisturizer to provide colour even faster.

For more prom beauty advice, check out louloumagazine.com

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