I did something way wrong! I used self-tanner everywhere, and I'm streaked out from head to toe. Is there anything I can use to get all of it off, I tried exfoliating but it doesn't work. What can I do about it?
Look in the mirror and have a good laugh. Sure, you're 'streaked-out' now, but it won't last more than a couple of days
There really isn't much you can do but wait. Don't scrub your skin; you'll only irritate it. To speed the fade, however, try using a gentle exfoliant that contains glycolic acid. I like Murad Sensitive Skin Smoothing Cream, which is actually an amazing facial moisturizer, but has exfoliating properties.
Once the streaks have faded and you're feeling brave... here are some tips for applying self-tanner next time!
What you'll need:
- Self-tanner of your choice, though I recommend starting with one that says 'light tan'
- Unscented baby wipes
- A gentle body exfoliant
Tips for Self-Tanning Your Body:
- Shower using a gentle (and I stress the word gentle) bath scrub or washcloth. I'm a big fan of the scrubbing gloves from the Body Shop. This'll roll off excess rough skin and prime it for the tanner.
- Dry the skin completely and use a light body moisturizer.
- Squeeze a liberal amount (3 to 4 tablespoons) of the self-tanner into the palms of your hands, rub your palms together so they're covered in product, and using both hands massage style, work the product over your skin starting at the feet and upward covering the entire area as you go. I generally start with the right leg, make sure it's covered completely, than go to the left, making sure it's covered; the torso next, then the right arm, left arm, shoulders, neck. Save the face for last.
- Remember, tanner works fast, so you'll want to keep cleaning the areas you don't want to stain. Keep the baby wipes at your side to consistently wash off your palms, between your fingers and under your nails as you apply. After each leg application, be sure to clean between your toes.
- Wait 15 to 30 minutes before dressing.
Tips for Self-Tanning Your Face:
- This is a two-step process. Follow the same directions as for the body, only use just 1 teaspoon. Apply to the entire face using both hands, making sure all areas are covered. Don't forget the outside of the ears and under the chin.
- Remove all traces of the tanner from your hands.
- Next, in the same method you applied the tanning product to your face, apply your facial moisturizer. Blend and blend again. This will pretty much assure a good even blend.
