Best to apply your self-tanner at night and wait for bedtime, if you can
This helps the product to set overnight when you’re less likely to be active or sweating, both of which can enhance the scent.
Self-tanner before bed gives the product plenty of time to dry and sink in while you sleep, too. Avoid tight pajamas so the product won’t get on your clothes while you sleep. In the morning, rinse off the lingering odor and you are left with an even, natural tan.
1. Stay hydrated and moisturized
Staying well-hydrated can also help subdue the aroma that self-tanner can bring. Dry skin can intensify the smell, as it usually makes application uneven with patches. Stay hydrated and regularly use a good moisturizer, especially prior to and after applying the self-tanner.
Opt for fragrance-free moisturizers made for sensitive skin. That way, you can keep your skin hydrated without adding more scent that could intermingle with the smell of your self-tanner. A good moisturizer will also help prolong your tan, letting it fade evenly and beautifully.
2. Rinse Off After a Few Hours
Self-tanner a common way to get that sun-kissed glow without all the damaging effects of UV damage. But countless self-tanners are known for their particular smell. READ MORE: Here are some tips to avoid smelling like self-tanner and still get that gorgeous bronzed skin So how do you avoid being the smelly person in the room while trying to achieve a gorgeous tan?.
3. Causes of the Odor Source
The odor linked with self-tanners is largely due to the active ingredient dihydroxyacetone (DHA) in your tube or bottle. When DHA reacts with the amino acids in your dermis, it causes a browning effect that gives you that tanned look. Unfortunately, the same chemical reaction can also create one that some people really dislike.
In addition, many self-tanners have added fragrances to cover up the smell, but they tend to only partially hide it. The result is a distinctive odor that can stay on the skin for hours, or even days. Understanding the process is the first step to learning how to mitigate the smell in effective ways.
4. Exfoliate Before Application
I recommend exfoliating your skin so it’s easy and smooth for the self-tanner to apply evenly, and if you go over it after applying with some sort of a buffing mitt or sponge, that’ll make sure you have less odor.” Exfoliating helps remove any dead skin cells and allows for a smoother base for the self-tanner to cling to. This can assist the product to absorb better and reduce the chances of a potent odor.
Gently scrub or use exfoliating mitt a day before applying self-tanner. Concentrate on the spots the tan is prone to accumulate, like elbows, knees, and ankles. You need to hydrate your skin very well after exfoliation. Proper moistened surface helps in proper absorption and spreading which minimizes the after smell.
5. Layer with Scented Products
Laying the right scented products on top of the self-tanner can help to disguise that odor smell. Wear scented lotions, body oils or perfume after applying your self-tanner. Look for complimentary scent products that can mask the self-tanner fragrance.
But, be wary about how much you apply. Overpowering odors can also occur from overusing strongly scented products. Opt instead for lighter fragrances that will harmonize well with the self-tanner scent. Use these once your self-tanner is dry, usually a few hours later, so as not to interfere with the tanning process.
6. Timing Your Application
When you apply your self-tanner can affect how noticeable the smell is
While most self-tanners leave you to let the product develop for a certain time to achieve the desired hue. If you’re sensitive to the smell though, rinse the product off after a couple of hours. Which is great if you want to limit the smell but still get a nice tan.
Keep in mind that rinsing out the product too early can leave you with a much lighter tan than you were hoping for. You may need to play around with the timing to see what your skin responds best to and what works for the results you want. This is also a way to eliminate the risk of the scent staying longer than intended.
7. Opt for Natural Alternatives
If the smell of traditional self-tanners is too much for you, try natural alternatives. Products that contain plant-based ingredients, such as cocoa or beetroot, can now help you get that bronzed glow without the self-tanner smell. Lesser of these are usually less scented due to having less synthetic components in production.
You can also try making your own, natural self-tanner at home. To create a natural bronzer for your skpes usiin./e grondsneeterse acomd it tain. Although such do-it-yourself solutions won’t last as long as commercial products, they’re a fun way to satiate your nostrils.
8. Wash Your Hands Properly
Make sure to wash hands after applying self-tanner. The smell can stick to your fingers, and be transferred to other surfaces or on your clothes. You should use soap and warm water, scrubbing your hands for at least 20 seconds, to make sure you are removing all traces of the product.
You may also want to scrub under your fingernails and in between your fingers, as they are areas of your skin that can trap self-tanner residue — you might want to do this with a nail brush. Applying a bit of lemon juice to your hands after cleansing is also an option, as the acidity of lemon juice is effective in neutralizing lingering odor.
9. Opt for a Professional spray tans
If you’re still sensitive to the smell of self-tanner, try a professional spray tan. Most salons use a more sophisticated tanning solution that’s formulated to reduce the odor (similar to a self-tanner) and promote even coverage. A trained technician can also ensure that the tan goes on evenly and evenly, so you can avoid streaks or patches that can come with a bad smell.
Ask the salon which products it uses before making an appointment. Many now also produce organic or low-odor options, so you can get a gorgeous tan without the self-tanner smell. Although designed to be in-house, you can actually outsource this option where it can be costly than a DIY approach but will spare you some time and effort.
10. Storage and Application Tips
Storage: Where you store your self-tanner can also play a role in its scent. Store your self-tanning products in a cool dry place and away from direct sunlight. Heat can decompose the ingredients, possibly increasing the odor.
Use an application mitt when applying self-tanner. Not only does this help prevent streaks, but it also keeps your hands from absorbing too much of the product, which can leave your palms smelling. You want to wash the mitt right after application so that it doesn’t transfer any odor from step to step.
With a few strategic choices and habits, it is possible to avoid the odor of self-tanner. From choosing the right products to applying them the right way, there are plenty of options when it comes the bronzed glow without the bronzed smell. Follow these tips for confidently showing off your gorgeous tan while keeping undesirable smells at arm’s length!
FAQs
1 Is using self-tanner on my face okay?
Yes, a lot of self-tanners are made for the face. (Products labeled face tanners are formulated for the delicate skin on your face.)
2 How often do I need to reapply self-tanner?
It will vary based on how fast your tan comes off as well as your preference. Sooner than that, you should be reapplying every 5 to 10 days, to keep the desired colour throughout your hair.
3 Is it safe to tan sensitive skin?
Yes, it can be, but only if it’s the specific kind of product for sensitive skin. As always, test in a small area for adverse/negative reactions.
4 Will my clothes or sheets get stained by self-tanner?
Self-tanner can get on fabric, and it stains, especially if still wet. As with all self-tanners, let it dry completely before putting on clothes or lying down in order to avoid transfer stains.
5 How do I apply self-tanner around other skincare products?
Yes, but you should ideally apply self-tanner onto freshly cleaned and exfoliated skin. Do not apply rich creams or oils immediately before, as they will stop the tanner from absorbing into the skin properly.