How to Use a Self-Tanner

Patients often ask me if self-tanner is safe to use. The answer is ABSOLUTELY. Tanning from the sun or indoor tanning beds is extremely harmful to your skin but a tan from a bottle is completely safe. The keys to even coverage are:  apply the self-tanner to exfoliated, dry skin;  apply minimally over the joint areas that tend to absorb more self tanner; and wash hands thoroughly after applying. And of course you must apply sunscreen every day. In fact, there are products that contain both a self-tanner and sunscreen such as Jergens Natural Glow & Protect Daily SPF30 Moisturizer or Australian Gold Faces SPF 45 Sunscreen with Bronzer Plus Gradual Self Tanner. Follow the tips in the video below from the American Academy of Dermatology to get the optimal self-tanner glow!