It's summer in Ireland, which means once it hits above 12 degrees we are getting out legs out ladies and gents! And although we love a natural Skin moment because we are ALL about self love, us Irish are mad into the aul fake tan, let's be real. 

So if you're not in the mood to embrace your pale skin just yet, (that's okay cause, same) it's time to Perfect your Tanning routine so you can have the perfect, smooth tan all summer long.

In this blog we are going to talk through some key steps that may help take your tanning routine to the next level, thank us later.

1. Exfoliate

Before you tan, and while you're in THE shower, you know the all important shave, wash hair, and do all your bits and bobs before the weekend, yes in that shower, make sure you exfoliate! Exfoliating your skin can lift off the dry skin and any residue from old tan, which may impact the outcome of your next application.

Try the NUXE Reve De Miel Body Scrub to buff and refresh your skin pre tan, it even leaves a satisfying floral-honey scent to enjoy throughout the day.

Opinions on when to have THE shower vary, different times work for different people and it also can depend on how much time you actually have. Personally, I find having THE shower a day before tanning and a quick rinse (no shaving) right before works best, but I have also had great success having THE shower just a few hours before I tan, so it's worth seeing what suits you best.

2. Tan time

The prep is done and it's time to get down to the real business. Choose what time suits you to tan, I adore an over night tanning sesh, but if you won't have time to wash it off the next day it's probably worth it to do it during the day before.

Find out what tan suits your skin the best, a mousse, foam, liquid, water, cream, there are so many options to choose from. BeautyFeatures.ie stocks:

BiaBelle - Foam Tan

Cocoa Brown Tan - Mousse

Both of these are Ideal for your body tan depending on your skin. Make sure to apply carefully and evenly on clean dry skin, and be sparing around the dryer areas such as your ankles, knees, feet, elbows and hands. Putting less on these spots can avoid patchy or blotchy tan outcomes.

3. Finishing touch

So you've got your body tan covered, but there's a few extra special products that can take your tan to the next level.

First the amazing SOSU Water Self Tanning Facial Mist, this stuff is gold dust. Spray it on your face (avoid having already applied tan to your face as you don't want patches from where the spray takes off the developing tan), and just enjoy the sun kissed look that develops over the next few hours. Top it up daily to keep your summer facial glow.

And second, another SOSU product, the SOSU Dripping Gold Illuminating Bronzing Powder, this product can be applied on its own or over existing tan, the illuminating bronzer is perfect to add an extra bit of sun shimmer to your complexion. You will love the extra glow it gives you!

Apply with the SOSU Dripping Gold Large Kabuki Brush for best results. This brush is also great for applying and blending tan on the hands.

4. Moisturise

This step is another one that's up to personal preference. Some people find their tan lasts longer if they moisturise daily, some find it fades quicker. Usually I moisturise my hands right after applying my hand tan, which I find really helps prevent patchy dry orange hands the next day.

Some people also like to moisturise right before tanning, this ensures your skin is super soft when your tan goes on.

The CeraVe Moisturising Lotion (Pump) could be a good simple option for a light moisturising over your tan, whether it's everywhere or just certain locations you feel might need it.

5. Take it off!

Okay so you've mastered your perfect tan, but after a few days it does tend to become faded, sometimes patchy and it is not a vibe. The last thing you want is crispy tan clinging to your elbows for dear life, so when it is getting to that time, it is important to take the tan off properly.

The Cocoa Brown Fresh Start Self Tan Eraser is perfect for this job. Get the old tan out of the way so you can have perfect clean skin, ready for your next application!

6. Repeat!

Continue this every time you tan and tailor it to your tanning preferences and you have got the perfect tanning routine for this Irish summer! 

Happy tanning!