5 Fake Tan Myths Busted

Myth: You should apply moisturiser before using fake tan….

Fact: This has some truth to it. While you should be regularly applying moisturiser to keep your skin smooth and fake-tan-ready, you shouldn’t moisturise immediately before you use fake tan. If you apply moisturiser right before you apply your fake tan the moisturiser will create a barrier between the tan and your skin and you’ll be much more likely to end up with streaky/patchy tan.

Myth: Fake tan acts as sunscreen.

Fact: No, no, no! Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that just because you’ve applied a layer of fake tan to your skin that you are protected from the sun. While there are some fake tans that boast SPF qualities, they are usually only SPF 15 and most tans have none whatsoever, making them completely helpless when it comes to UV rays so make sure you have the SPF 30+ close by. Slip, slop, slap!

Myth: The chemicals in fake tan are bad for you.

Fact: You have nothing to worry about when it comes to the ingredients in your fake tan. The primary ingredient in all fake tans is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which sounds scary but has been used for tanning products since their conception and has been rigorously tested by cosmetologists to ensure it is non-toxic. DHA only tints the outer layers of your skin and is far healthier for you that exposing your skin to harmful UV rays for hours on end to get your bronze on. Skip the sun damage and you’re sure to look younger and more wrinkle-free in the long run.

Myth: All fake tans look unnatural and orange.

Fact: While overzealous application can leave you with a not-so-right colour, modern day tanning products have come a long way. We no longer resemble the orange messes we did in the early 90s when fake tan truly began. Tanning products nowadays have been formulated with every skin type and colour in mind so you’ll have no problem finding that perfect colour that compliments your skin tone and makes you look like you’ve just come home from an island getaway.

Myth: Fake tan is messy.

Fact: While fake tan can transfer and leave your clothes and bedding a strange colour it doesn’t have to be this way. If you equip yourself with the After Tan Co Bamboo Collection you won’t need to worry about ruining your favourite dress or you pristine white bed sheets. After Tan Co’s Bamboo Pillow and Sheet Protectors and padded Maxi Dress will ensure that your tan doesn’t stick to what it shouldn’t and will make the tanning process a mess-free breeze. Happy Tanning!