With summer officially here, how about trying 5 easy steps to achieve that head-to-toe California girl glow we all want during warmer months. From vibrant, bright skin to making your bikini wax last, these simple tips will help you achieve sun-kissed skin and sport a safe, healthy tan:
Exfoliate for Smooth, Clear Skin: Brighten skin by removing dead cells. Exfoliating once a week will stimulate skin's circulation for a warm rosy glow, and also creates a smooth surface for self tanners or bronzers. Look for all-natural exfoliators and facial scrubs made with coffee, sugar, or sea salt.
Maximize Your Moisture: Hydrating skin after every shower (especially on ankles, knees and elbows) will ensure your sunless tan application isn't streaky. Use moisturizer all over to ensure your self-tanner doesn't concentrate in drier areas. Sebamed Moisturizing Body Lotion ($20) is an ultra-light formula that absorbs quickly or a fresh finish, so you won't feel sticky or weighed down.
Sport a Healthy, Safe Tan: Avoid burnt, flaky skin! Lather on a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater and opt for an all-natural self tanner that doesn't use chemical dyes, which are the cause of those dreadful orange streaks. jane iredale Tantasia Self Tanner & Bronzer ($36) builds a gradual tan within three days while also imparting an instant bronze glow. Apply first at your legs and work your way up to ensure you don't smudge. Let it dry for 5 minutes before getting dressed.
Make Your Bikini Wax Last: Ditch the razor, which can cause red bumps and irritation. Instead, pop over to a waxing center. This will ensure not only an ouch-free wax, but a flawless, fuzz-free glow. Leave waxing it to the pros!
Embrace The "no-makeup" Look: BB creams have become the beauty savior for dull, dry skin. In addition to hydrating and evening out skin tones, BB creams also treat the skin with antioxidants or other anti-aging ingredients, plus offer broad-spectrum SPF. Finish the look off with a dash of mascara and a warm bronzer for a natural, California girl flush.
