Expert reveals how to use 'perfect product' to avoid at-home tanning disasters

There are few better summer accessories than a sunkissed, radiant tan. That said, with Australia having one of the highest UV ratings in the world, the last thing we want to do is bask in the sun in pursuit of it.

While fake tan is the obvious, sun-safe solution, it’s not without its fair share of potential mishaps.

There’s nothing worse than waking up the morning after a fake bake session excited to see your goddess glow, only to be met with the sight of bright orange hands, streaky lines and stained sheets. And, let’s be honest, it always seems to conveniently happen right before an important event.

Thankfully, products like Unreal Skin exist, to reduce the risk of faux tanning fiascos. The Aussie brand has created what they say is an "uncomplicated moisturising cream" that gives you a natural-looking glow, without the fuss.

With zero smell or transfer, you simply apply it after your shower (day or night) and leave it on for four to six hours for a medium tan, or eight to ten hours for a dark tan. Voilà, you’ve got yourself an even, streak-free tan, without ever having to use a mitt (in fact, Unreal Skin advise against it).

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Of course, what you do before you apply your tan matters just as much as the products you use. That’s why we asked an expert for her top tips for preparing your canvas.

Isabella Loneragan is a multi-award-winning Skin and Dermal Therapist and the founder of the IL Skin clinics in Sydney and Bowral where she offers advanced skincare treatments. Here, she shares her top tips for perfecting your fake tan.

Know your colours

Ever experimented with a fake tan that looked amazing on your friend, but gave carrot vibes when you applied it on yourself? Chances are, you used the wrong base tone of your complexion.

Yes, that’s right — tan comes in different shades, other than ‘light, dark and medium.’ Based on colour theory, the idea is to use a product that counteracts with the natural warmth or coolness of your skin.

Do you have a warm complexion, green veins and are someone who naturally tans in the sun? “It’s often good to use violet based for olive and dark tones,” Isabella said.

Have blue veins, or are someone who easily blushes or burns in the sun? “Green-based tans work well with pink complexions,” she advised.

If you’re not sure which one you are, consider whether you look better in gold jewellery (warm toned) or silver jewellery (cool toned). Are you someone who looks good in both? Lucky you, you can probably get away with most tan colours, too.

Prime the skin

You’ve likely heard that you should exfoliate before applying your tan, to ensure the product absorbs deeply and consistently.

However, when it comes to tanning prep, not all products are created equal. You’ll want to use something that gently breaks down dead skin cells without causing it too much stress (aka steer clear of cheap supermarket exfoliators with plastic beads).

“I always recommend exfoliating with an enzyme exfoliator before tanning, followed by a nourishing moisturiser,” Isabella said.

Timing matters too, to ensure there are no leftover oils on the skin that can prevent your tan from sinking in.

“Well-hydrated and exfoliated skin is best for self tanner, but there needs to be at least 24 to 48 hours between exfoliating and tanning,” Isabella said.

“If you want to tan in the afternoon, moisturise in the morning and don't wash the moisturiser off before tanning.”

Remove the right way

To avoid getting that "tiger bread roll" pattern on your skin, you’ll likely want to remove your tan after a week or so.

While using harsh scrubbing brushes might be okay for the rest of your body, you’ll want to steer well clear of it on your face. Otherwise, you risk having red and irritated skin, or even breakouts.

“I always encourage clients to remove the self tanner with a mechanical exfoliator, or even an AHA based toner with gauze as that will reduce blackheads and pimples,” Isabella said.

This will also get your face nice and smooth for the next time you want to reapply your tan.

Ace your base *and* your face

Speaking of tanning your face, you’ll want to make sure you opt for a product without harsh chemicals — so as to not wreak havoc on your skin.

With 98 per cent natural ingredients and free from parabens, fragrances and artificial bronzing agents, Unreal Skin is safe to use on your face, as well as your body. It's also cruelty-free and vegan, so you can feel good about every application.

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Previous customers have plenty of praise for the lightweight, non-sticky solution.

“Highly recommend! This is a perfect product for a subtle tan that doesn’t look orange and fake!” raved one customer.

"When I say this is the best self-tan I mean it! Other self-tans have left my skin patchy and dry this formula has created a beautiful even tan and moisturised my skin,” says another.

Ready to try what’s being called the "most convenient tan on the market"? Shop the Self Tanning Cream here.

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