Getting ready for summer with self-tanner: our tips for applying it properly

After the long winter months, our skin sometimes tends to look a dull complexion and a tired complexion. So, to counter the effects of lack of sunshine and achieve a luminous complexion, we opt for Vitamin Cthe star active ingredient that promises a radiant complexion as summer approaches. But if you want a truly tanned complexion, theself-tanner remains our best ally.

This treatment, which allows you to obtain a light tan without exposing yourself to the sun's UV rays, is generally composed of a tanning agent called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). Of natural or synthetic origin, it reacts on contact with dead cells in the upper layer of the skin, producing a browning effect. With the frequent renewal of the stratum corneum, the browning effect gradually fades and theself-tanner applied to the skin will disappear after 5 to 7 days.  

At Oh My Cream, both Rudolph Care or Tan Adaptive Mist Oskiayou'll find natural or plant-derived DHA. Self-tanners may also contain other antioxidant ingredients such as vitamin E or, in the case of Rudolph Care, acai. These antioxidants protect the skin from the free radicals responsible for skin ageing and cell damage, enabling a more even, natural-looking tan. (But don't forget your favorite SPF!)

• Self-tanners should always be applied to clean, dry skin. So, if you've just got out of the shower, wait 20 minutes before applying your self-tanner.
• We recommendexfoliating the skin 48 to 72 hours before applying a self-tanner to even out the epidermis. To do this, use a body scrub to remove dead cells from the skin's surface, such as Seal Salt Gommage au Sel Marin Marjolaine Eucalyptus 135 L:a Bruket, a scrub that deeply exfoliates and nourishes the skin, leaving a satin finish, or the Coco Rose Exfoliating Body Scrub Herbivore, a gentle scrub that leaves skin soft and nourished. You can also exfoliate your skin in the days following the application of a self-tanner to ensure your tan lasts.

• We also recommend hair removal before applying self-tannerrather than afterwards. Indeed, waxing after self-tanning can lighten the skin slightly.
• To avoid self-tanner stains on your hands or marks on your skin, it's all about massage! Massage your skin with broad, enveloping strokes to help your self-tanner penetrate. And for the face, proceed in the same way as with your moisturizer: from the inside out, using circular massages, not forgetting to massage the nape of the neck and the ears, for an even, harmonious finish. Our tip: after applying your self-tanner, wipe over rough areas (such as heels, knees or elbows) and eyebrows with a damp, well-wrung cotton pad. This makes it easy to avoid darker areas.

• And don't forget to wash your hands after applying the product!
• Finally, as mentioned above, the application of self-tanner can sometimes dry out the epidermis, so we recommend that you moisturize your skin in the days following your self-tanning treatment. Daily moisturizing will keep your skin smooth, supple and even, and your tan will last longer!