Gone are the days of orange, patchy skin – and for good reason! These days we’re all embracing a natural and heathy look, swapping noticeably fake tans for a more subtle bronzed glow. The best part? You can achieve Bondi goddess status in just four easy steps…

We suggest using the beauty dept 'Summer' Gradual Tan, which develops over 2-3 hours to a subtly warmer natural tone. Additional applications deepen the colour further, giving you the ability to control just how ‘sun kissed’ you wish to appear.

1. Exfoliation is key

Priming a canvas is the best way to achieve a beautiful artwork, so why shouldn’t your body be the same? Exfoliation is key to prepping your skin for an even tan. Start by using a body scrub in the shower and gently rub with a mitt, paying special attention to rough areas such as the knees and elbows. Weekly exfoliation helps to rid the skin of its top dead layers and leave you with luscious soft skin. For a natural alternative, I love applying coconut oil to my mitt instead of a scrub then patting dry. The oil provides just that little bit more moisture.

2. Hydrating the skin

One of the most important components for a long lasting tan is moisture! Summer brings more humidity, so for the most part your skin is plump and full of vitamin D. But in the cooler months, it’s important to remember that cold weather can be very drying. Winds and long hot showers are a few things that prevent your tan lasting as long as possible, as they remove moisture from your skin.

To combat this, replenish your body with a rich cream or various oils. Don’t forget areas that tend to have lots of creases – the hands, elbows, knees, heels and toes. By moisturising these areas, you'll smooth out any imperfections and help your fake tan blend better. There’s nothing worse than having dark, patchy spots!

3. Application (just keep blending!)

Now it’s time for the main event: applying the tan. Using the product sparingly, start with your face and gently blend down your neck; remember you can always build up the colour. Now work your way down the body, leaving your hands and feet for last. Once finished, it’s important to wash your hands and clean your fingernails with a wipe to avoid any staining. And now you should have a gorgeous bronzed tan!

4. For that extra something Our simple steps to achieve a flawless tan all year round

Try using a natural plant or fruit based oil over the top of your tan for an added glowing complexion. Goe Oil is a wonderfully nourishing product that will absorb very quickly into your skin, leaving you looking refreshed and revitalised. This multipurpose product is the ultimate oil for cold seasons as it can hydrate the skin, lips, cuticles and hair.

Voila!

If you’re feeling a little nervous, self-tanning for the first (or second or third!) time, then apply another layer of moisturiser over the tan. This will further help the colour blend out, plus your skin can never be too hydrated. Regularly moisturising your face and body will prolong the colour of your tan and act as a barrier against harsh wind and brisk air.

Taking care of your skin is crucial to ensure your tan looks the healthiest and most flattering it can be. I believe that using products with natural and organic ingredients will always give you the best result!

Our very own 'Summer' Gradual Tan is a beautiful alternative to other tanners, as it does not contain any harsh parabens or other nasties.