Self-Tanning Products:
That Certain Something

Aired on Superstation WGN
Saturday, May 21 and August 20, 2005
Show 213

There's nothing quite like feeling the sun on your skin. And everyone feels better with a tan. There's something about that golden glow. But face it, it's not the best thing for you. There's a way that you can get that perfect sun kiss look without the damage from the sun. Try a self-tanner. Store shelves are filled with self-tanners. If you're new at this, look for a lotion with a color in it. There are a few easy tips to make sure your self-tan is every bit as good as the one from the sun. Use a self-scrub to remove dead skin cells; this will help make sure your tan is even. And moisturize places like your knees, elbows, heels and toes to keep from absorbing too much color. Use a cotton ball to put tanner on the backs of your hands. When you're done with that, wipe a clean tissue over your knuckles and in between your fingers. For the most natural color, go slow and apply it sparingly. A couple of thin layers are better  than one big globby coat. Gloves aren't a bad idea. When it comes to your face, make sure to pick a product that's made for it. They're usually designed not to clog your pores. Don't forget the drying time. Some formulas take longer to dry than others. You may want to use a blow dryer to speed things up. Okay. We don't think of mistakes but sometimes they do  happen. You can use cuticle remover for small areas like your hands or feet. For a bigger area, exfoliate your skin with a body scrub. So what do you if you aren't really a do-it-yourselfer? You can get a great tan with a couple of new alternatives. One option is paying a visit to an airbrush tanning salon. A trained tech will use a hand held airbrush machine to blow a fine mist of self-tanner over your face and body. You can also try a spray tan booth. Walk into a private booth and let yourself be sprayed with small jets blowing a mist of self-tanner. Results--your tan will last the same as a real one, about three to five days.