Self Tanning Tips

Self-tanning is the perfect way to achieve a summer glow without harming your skin from harmful UV rays.

We offer a wide range of tanning products here at CM Hair and Beauty Supplies, from airbrush tan to tanning lotions, sunbed supplies, and tanning kits. 

Applying self-tan doesn’t need to be complicated, but the perfect glow requires the correct amount of preparation and aftercare. 

A key to the perfect tan base is exfoliation. This is often a step people skip, but it can be a big player in achieving your sunkissed glow. We recommend exfoliating your skin 24 hours before you apply your self-tan, removing dead skin cells and leaving your skin a soft and smooth base ready for moisturisation. 

There are many exfoliation products out there, each with varying properties for different skin types. One of our favourites is the Crazy Angel body polish, a formula that contains natural exfoliants to buff dry skin and with colour-correcting properties that make it suitable for different skin tones. The colour-correcting properties in this tanning product cancel out orange or uneven tones in the skin.

If you are removing body hair, like your exfoliant, prepare this 24 hours before you apply your tan. Allowing time for this allows your skin pores to close and makes your skin ready for tan application without worrying about an uneven or patchy finish. 

If you are a regular self-tanner, ensure you remove any previous fake tan residue on your skin to avoid unwanted buildup. Tan erasers are the perfect solution for this, designed to gently but effectively remove the previous tan without stripping your skin too much. The Salicylic Acid found in the Crazy Angel tan eraser provides soft exfoliation for those with dryer, more sensitive skin. 

Unsurprisingly, most people think they need to moisturise with an everyday body moisturiser or body butter before they apply self-tan. However, we recommend avoiding products that will leave your skin oily and with residue. This can make your tan uneven when applied, so it is usually best to stick to gentle exfoliants. Gradual tan does both jobs for you, leaving your skin soft and moisturised at the same time as building up a gorgeous glow. 

There are trickier areas that might require pre-moisturisation depending on your skin type. Dryer areas such as your elbows, wrists, and knees will benefit from moisturising before a tan to avoid patchiness. The Crazy Angel barrier cream is perfect for this, creating a skin barrier that will protect problem areas from staining or applying unevenly.

Once you have achieved your tan, maintaining it will be a priority, right? A simple tip is to pat yourself dry after a shower as opposed to roughly towel drying, this allows you to be more gentle with your tan and avoid uneven colour. 

To keep it even, you can lightly exfoliate every 2-3 days and moisturise alongside your self-tan. Gradual tanners have moisturiser in them and hydration is one of the key ingredients to maintaining your glow. You will see how your tan is progressing after application and can top it up where you feel it needs an extra boost. 

CM Hair and Beauty Supplies stock a wide range of tanning products for beauty salons, with a wide range of amazing offers and competitive prices. Browse our range of beauty supplies today and stock up on all your favourite tanning products