Armpits Up! Get 'Em Tan Ready
Welcome back to our spray tan prep series. Last time, we talked about why getting a manicure and pedicure before your tan is a must. This time, we're focusing on an area that's often overlooked but oh-so-important: Your Armpits!
Yep, you read that right. Prepping your underarms is key to achieving a flawless, even tan. Why? Because the last thing you want is a green or dark discolouration under your arms after your spray tan develops.
Here's the deal. Most deodorants your supermarket brand roll-ons and aerosols contain aluminium. While this ingredient is great for keeping sweat at bay, it doesn't play well with DHA, the active ingredient in spray tan solutions. When aluminium and DHA mix, it can cause a chemical reaction that leaves an unsightly (green or dark brown) discoloration under your arms. Definitely not the look we're going for!
So, how do you prevent this tanning trouble?
Natural is the Way to Go: Switching to a natural deodorant without aluminium a week before your tan is a game-changer. It prevents those unwanted reactions and ensures your tan develops evenly and beautifully.
Embrace your Inner Hippie: and go au naturel for a bit! Skipping deodorant for a week or two before your spray tan is like a mini detox for your pits, and your tan will thank you.
Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate: Just like the rest of your body, your underarms need a good scrub to slough off dead skin cells and any lingering deodorant residue a few day before your tan. Exfoliating helps remove any deodorant buildup or dead skin cells, creating a smooth canvas for the tan to adhere to.
Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise: Did you know that deodorant can actually dry out your underarms? That's why it's important to moisturise the area twice in the days leading up to your tan. Moisturised skin tans more evenly and helps your glow last longer.
Your Armpit Prep Checklist
Ditch the aluminium deodorant and switch to a natural alternative a few days before your tan. This simple switch will help ensure your tan develops evenly and beautifully.
Exfoliate your underarms gently but thoroughly with a sugar or salt scrub and a pair of exfoliating mitts.
Moisturise your underarms daily to keep them hydrated and ready for a flawless tan.
On the day of your tan, arrive after having a shower so you are clean, sweat free, dry underarms and no deodorant applied.
By following these simple steps, you'll be well on your way to achieving a flawless, streak-free tan that you can confidently show off all summer long!
Next up on the spray tan prep list: Exfoliation! We'll share our top tips for prepping your skin like a pro so your tan goes on flawlessly and even.