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Bronzing Done Right

Everyone looks great with a tan, but no one wants to end up with a fried egg face 20 years down the road. The answer: Self-tanner!

July 11, 2011
Bronzing Done Right

David Maderich

2 min to read


I get asked continually, “Mr. David, How do I use self tanner without ending up looking like one of the Lohans?”

Good question, darlings! Read on for the dos and don’ts of getting a perfect fake bake.

  1. EXFOLIATE: Okay girls, to get an even glow, you have to use a scrub on your face and body to remove any rough spots that might cause the self-tanner to “stick” and create an orange spot.

  2. MOISTURIZE: Once you’re smooth as a baby, coat your body and face with a light lotion to ensure an even application.

  3. SELF-TAN: The secret to an even and glowing self tan is to apply the product gradually over a few days—too much product will cause streaks and spots. I suggest using a self tanner that has a slight bronze tint—this way you can actually see and correct your mistakes. And be sure to wash your hands with a strong soap—I like Dawn dish soap—to avoid the dreaded pumpkin palms. Finally, rub a dollop of lotion on your hands and wrists to soften and blend the color.

  4. MAINTENANCE: Once you achieve the color you desire, it’s important to keep your skin moisturized and glowing by a daily application of a rich lotion. I usually suggest repeating the self-tanning process every four to five days to maintain your color.

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Follow my tips, and I guarantee a summer of perfect bronzed skin.

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