Self-Tanner: Our Advice.

A self-tanner is a skincare product that allows one to achieve a uniform tan similar to sunbathing without having to expose oneself to the sun for several hours. Its use thus helps to avoid the harmful effects caused by exposure to UV rays such as sunburn, signs of premature skin aging (wrinkles, fine lines, skin sagging, etc...) or even imperfections (pigment spots, pimples...).

The action mechanism of self-tanners is based on the Maillard reaction. The molecules of dihydroxyacetone (DHA) present react with the amines, peptides, and amino acids in the upper layer of the epidermis to form pigments, the melanoidins, which are responsible for skin coloration. However, this color gradually fades to completely disappear in 5 to 7 days. This phenomenon is explained by the frequent renewal of the stratum corneum (natural exfoliation process). It should be noted, DHA can be of plant or synthetic origin. We advise you to prefer a self-tanner containing naturally sourced DHA.

Caution! Self-tanning products do not provide UV protection and cannot replace sunscreen! Ensure you protect yourself from UV rays with a broad-spectrum sunscreen before exposing yourself to the sun.

Initially, when selecting a self-tanner, apply a small amount of the product in question to your wrist or the back of your hand to ensure that it is not too dark and/or that you do not develop a skin reaction. Then, to achieve a uniform and natural tan, we advise you to follow these various steps:

1. Before applying a self-tanner, it is necessary to prepare your skin. The day before, perform a scrub to remove dead skin cells and allow the self-tanner to adhere to the skin. You can, for example, use the nourishing body scrub and the radiance face scrub. If you prefer a solid form, the exfoliating cleansing care with poppy allows you to gently scrub the skin while nourishing it. Made with 100% natural origin ingredients, it contains poppy seeds, cornmeal, olive oil, coconut oil and sunflower oil .

2. The next day, before applying your self-tanner, wash your skin with a cleansing care product suitable for your skin type and according to the area. Then gently dry your skin;

3. Squeeze a dollop of self-tanner into your hand, then apply it to the areas of your body you wish to tan by making circular motions, using the flat of your hand. If you're applying it to your face, don't forget the neck, around the eyes, or even the ears;

4. Wash your hands immediately after use;

5. Allow the treatment to dry for about thirty minutes before touching your skin or putting on clothing.

To extend the tan, reapply twice in the first week, then once in the following week.