THE TAN COMMANDMENTS Self-tanning is a minefield. All too often the end result is an embarrassing and disappointingly streaky and unrealistic tan and not the salon perfect fresh and flawless finish you had envisaged. So how do you tan without tears? Well self-tan experts at ProSun have put together their ‘Tan Commandments’ – the foolproof guide to faking it TIP 1 It’s a little known fact that applying self-tan to alkaline surfaces creates the ‘Tango’ look. So if you’ve just had a shower or bath with alkaline soap, wait at least half an hour to give your skin time to return to normal pH before applying self tan. TIP 2 Ask any painter or decorator and they’ll tell you that surfaces must be properly prepared before applying paint. The same applies to skin – always exfoliate and moisturise before fake tan application. Concentrate on dry areas such as knees, ankles and elbows and apply tan sparingly to these trouble spots. TIP 3 You are best climbing into the bath or shower cubicle when applying your tan to avoid any unwanted mess. That way you can simply wipe away any excess spray. TIP 4 Once you’re ready to go, hold the jet 12 inches from the body and apply in a sweeping motion (don’t hold too close to the body. This will help avoid running… however if this happens simply dab any excess spray immediately to leave you with a perfect tan). TIP 5 The trickiest areas to apply self-tan are the hands, feet and arms, so be extra careful. Avoid getting fake tan in between the toes and remember that a tanned underside of arms doesn’t look natural. TIP 6 Hands are usually the most tanned part of the body so they usually don’t need any help! So remember to only spray a little. TIP 7 If you are applying an all over tan, get a friend to help. It’s much easier and they can do those difficult to reach places such as the middle of the back ensuring you get even results. TIP 8 After application, allow at least 10 minutes for the tan to dry thoroughly before getting dressed. If you are in a rush use a hairdryer to dry you off that bit quicker. TIP 9 If you are looking for a really deep colour, you may find you need two to three applications. Plan these in advance as applying coats too quickly on top of each other can lead to uneven colour. TIP 10 Once you’ve achieved the colour you like, a top up application every four days will keep your tan in tip top condition.