Self-tanning: 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 ageing (wrinkles, fine lines, skin sagging, etc...) or even imperfections (pigmentation spots, pimples…).

The action mode 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 colouration. However, this colour gradually fades to disappear completely in 5 to 7 days. This phenomenon is explained by the frequent renewal of the horny layer (natural desquamation process). It should be noted, DHA can be of plant or synthetic origin. We advise you to favour 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.

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. Following this, 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 could, 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 following day, before applying your self-tanner, cleanse your skin with a cleansing care product suitable for your skin type and according to the area. Then gently dry your skin;

3. Dispense a small amount of self-tanning lotion into your hand, then apply it to the areas of your body you wish to tan, using circular motions and 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 approximately thirty minutes before touching your skin or putting on clothing.

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