Self Tanning & Fake Tan FAQs

Expert answers to your self tanning questions, from fake tan application and skin preparation to achieving a flawless, natural-looking glow.

WHAT MAKES VITA LIBERATA DIFFERENT?

With a collection of smart technologies, which minimise odour and provide 72 hour skin hydration, combined with certified organic ingredients, Vita Liberata is the most natural and skin caring tan available. It treats the skin while tanning it, promising a flawless fade with no scaling or patching.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TINTED AND UNTINTED SELF TAN?

Tinted self tan contains a bronzing guide so you achieve immediate colour on the skin. It allows you to see your tan as you apply, making application extra easy. At the same time, the tanning agent DHA will work over 4-8 hours to develop your lasting colour, that remains on the skin following showering. Untinted self tan applies to the skin completely clear. It then develops over 4-8 hours.

HOW DOES SELF TAN WORK?

The main active tanning ingredient used in Vita Liberata tanners is Dihydroxyacetone (also known as DHA), which is derived from organic sugar beet. Vita Liberata’s DHA is combined with pure natural and organic ingredients that condition and nourish the skin while tanning it. The DHA reacts chemically with the amino acids found in the upper epidermis (top layer) of the skin. An individual’s level of amino acids will dictate the final result of their self tan application. DHA should be left to develop on the skin between 4-8 hours for optimum results.

WHAT SHOULD I DO BEFORE TRYING VITA LIBERATA TAN FOR THE FIRST TIME?

We recommend carrying out a patch test 24 hours prior to applying any tanning product for the first time. Apply a small amount of the self tan behind the ear and leave for 24 hours. Although DHA allergies are extremely rare, if any adverse reactions occur such as redness, swelling or itching, avoid using the self tan and seek medical advice if it continues. If no reaction occurs then it is fine to proceed with a full body application.

HOW LONG WILL MY VITA LIBERATA TAN LAST?

pHenomenal Mousse Tan will lasts longer than regular tans (2-3 weeks with reapplication) while the rest of our collection will last 4-7 days. To achieve the best results, prep your skin by exfoliating with Super Fine Skin Polish and use Moisture Boost Body Treatment daily following your tan application to maintain it.

CAN VITA LIBERATA SELF TANS BE USED ON THE FACE?

Absolutely! As they contain natural ingredients and are deeply hydrating, all Vita Liberata tans are gentle enough for use on the face. We also have a Self Tanning Anti Age Serum, which is designed specifically for delicate facial skin, and contains even more hydrating ingredients than our body tans and less DHA so they can be used regularly to maintain a subtle glow.

HOW CAN I GET A PERFECT FINISH ON MY HANDS AND FEET?

To get perfect ‘beach feet’ and natural looking hands, tan these areas last, using only the residue of product left on your tanning mitt. Only tan the top of your feet and hands (imagine where the sun would hit on the beach). Then use a damp cloth to buff the edges of your hands and feet to blend the tan into the non-tanned areas.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MOUSSE AND LOTION?

Mousse is super fast drying on the skin and very easy to apply. Lotion is very hydrating and perfect for dry skin.

WHEN DO I NEED TO SHAVE BEFORE APPLYING TAN?

For best results we advise to shave at least 24 hours before applying the tan.

WHEN CAN I APPLY MOISTURISER BEFORE OR AFTER TANNING?

Do Not apply moisturisers before your tan. You can apply moisturiser once the tan has fully developed and showered off. It is important to use an oil free moisturiser as some essential oils can act as a barrier in the tan developing.

I HAVE FAIR SKIN, WHAT IS THE BEST TAN FOR ME?

We advise a light shade for a ‘few days in the sun’ glow, medium for ‘a week in the sun’ glow and dark for a ‘2 week in the sun’ glow.

I HAVE DRY SKIN, WHAT IS THE BEST PRODUCT FOR ME?

We advise to use a self tan lotion as this is highly moisturising and hydrating on the skin.

WILL THE PRODUCT STREAK?

No, our products don’t streak but make sure you prep the skin well before use, exfoliate and don’t moisturise. Use a mitt for best results.

HOW DO I APPLY FAKE TAN FOR AN EVEN FINISH?

For the best fake tan application, start with clean, exfoliated and dry skin. Apply your self tan using a tanning mitt and blend evenly using long, circular movements. Work in sections and use less product around naturally drier areas such as the elbows, knees, ankles, hands and feet.

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE MY SKIN BEFORE FAKE TANNING?

Exfoliate your skin before applying fake tan to remove dead skin cells and create a smooth, even surface. Pay particular attention to dry areas such as the elbows, knees and ankles. Where possible, shave at least 24 hours before tanning and make sure your skin is clean and dry before application.

SHOULD I EXFOLIATE BEFORE APPLYING SELF TAN?

Yes. Exfoliating before applying self tan helps remove dead skin cells that can cause colour to develop unevenly. Concentrate on naturally dry areas such as the elbows, knees and ankles to help create a smoother, more even-looking tan.

DO I NEED TO USE A TANNING MITT?

We recommend using a tanning mitt when applying self tan. A mitt helps distribute the product evenly across the skin while protecting the palms of your hands from staining. Apply a small amount of product at a time and blend thoroughly before adding more.

HOW DO I AVOID STREAKY FAKE TAN?

Good preparation and careful blending are key to avoiding streaks. Exfoliate before tanning, apply self tan to clean, dry skin and blend thoroughly with a tanning mitt. Use less product around the hands, feet, elbows, knees and ankles, where colour can develop more intensely.

HOW LONG SHOULD I LEAVE FAKE TAN ON BEFORE SHOWERING?

Development time varies depending on the Vita Liberata self tanning product you are using. Always follow the directions for your specific product before showering. While your tan develops, avoid water, excessive sweating and anything that could interfere with an even result.

CAN I SLEEP IN FAKE TAN?

If the recommended development time for your chosen Vita Liberata self tan allows it, the product can be left to develop overnight. Allow your tan to dry before getting dressed or going to bed, wear loose clothing and always follow the directions for your specific product.

HOW CAN I MAKE MY FAKE TAN LAST LONGER?

Good preparation and aftercare can help your self tan last longer and fade more evenly. Exfoliate before application and, once your tan has fully developed and been rinsed, keep your skin regularly moisturised. Avoid excessive exfoliation and prolonged hot showers if you want to maintain your colour for longer.

WHY DOES FAKE TAN GO PATCHY?

Fake tan can become patchy when it develops over dry or uneven areas of skin, or as the skin naturally sheds after tanning. Exfoliating before application and keeping your skin moisturised once your tan has developed can help your colour look smoother and fade more evenly.

HOW DO I FIX STREAKY OR UNEVEN FAKE TAN?

If your tan has developed unevenly, gently exfoliate darker areas to soften the difference in colour. Avoid scrubbing the skin too aggressively. For your next application, exfoliate beforehand, apply to clean, dry skin and blend carefully with a tanning mitt for a more even finish.

HOW DO I REMOVE FAKE TAN?

Fake tan will gradually fade as the skin naturally renews. To help remove remaining colour, soak the skin and gently exfoliate, paying particular attention to areas where tan can build up such as the ankles, knees, elbows and wrists. Avoid excessive scrubbing that may irritate the skin.

WHY DO MY KNEES AND ELBOWS GO DARKER?

Knees and elbows tend to be drier than other areas of the body and can absorb more tanning product, resulting in deeper colour. Exfoliate these areas before tanning and use less product when applying your self tan. Blend carefully to create a natural-looking transition.

HOW DO I STOP FAKE TAN COLLECTING AROUND MY ANKLES?

Exfoliate around your ankles before tanning and avoid applying a full amount of product directly to this area. Instead, use the remaining product on your tanning mitt and lightly blend the tan down from your legs towards your feet.

CAN I EXERCISE AFTER APPLYING FAKE TAN?

It is best to avoid exercise while your self tan is developing. Sweat and moisture can interfere with the developing colour and may lead to an uneven finish. Wait until your tan has completed its recommended development time and you have rinsed it before exercising.

CAN I SWIM WITH FAKE TAN?

Yes, once your self tan has fully developed and you have completed the recommended first rinse. However, frequent swimming, particularly in chlorinated water, may cause your tan to fade more quickly. Keeping your skin moisturised can help maintain an even-looking colour.

WHEN CAN I MOISTURISE AFTER FAKE TANNING?

Once your self tan has fully developed and you have completed the recommended first rinse, you can moisturise your skin. Regular moisturising helps keep the skin hydrated and can help your tan fade more evenly.

Self Tanning & Fake Tan FAQs

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