I have tried and tested almost every self-tanning lotion/spray/gel on the market and therefore I reckon that I'm qualified to give an experienced review of Clarins fake tan.
I am now a big fan of airbrushing, but I previously rated Clarins self-tanning gel as the best around for a flawless, golden tan.
The first thing I should say is that I never have streaks when I apply fake tan. I also do not strictly follow the instructions. For a start, I never exfoliate and moisturise before I apply it - not because I'm against it, but because I'm too lazy. I therefore do not believe that it is entirely necessary - unless of course you have recently used a self-tanning lotion and are required to get rid of your old tan before applying the new one. The next step is to buy yourself a pair of latex gloves. These can be bought from the first aid section of any pharmacy and cost around £2.00 for a pack of 10. These will protect your nails, the palms of your hands, and stop any clogging between your fingers. - I BELIEVE THAT WEARING GLOVES IS THE KEY TO A PERFECT TAN
The second point is that most streaks are caused by not applying enough gel. I would recommend applying a 10p size blob to each 1/2 leg and each arm.
The gel should be rubbed in quickly and in different strokes i.e in circular motions, up and down, and across motions.
Once the arms are done, do each hand by applying a small amount, taking care to wipe down each finger and rub into the side at the hand. This should be carried out with a glove on. Once one hand is done, allow it to dry briefly and then put the glove back on to apply tan to the second hand.
Tan should be applied to the rest of the body in a similar fashion.
The tan dries in a few minutes. I normally apply the tan before I go to bed and it is perfect by morning. If applied during the day, the tan will start to emerge in 2 hours, but should be fully developed in around 4 hours time.
I have always found Clarins tan to be very easy to apply. Many tanning lotions are oil-free and therefore are very dry when applied, but Clarins feels more like you are applying a body lotion.
One thing I like about this tan is that it fades gradually after a few days. I think a big problem with fake tans is that after a week application the tan comes off in patches - This is not a problem with Clarins.
I have always found my Clarins tan to be very natural looking - a close match to my natural colour if I have a real tan, and not tangerine like some others I have tried.
I find that Clarins is only sold in large department stores and is slightly more expensive than other brands. However, in my opinion IT'S WORTH IT !
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Advantages: gives a nice glow if applied correctly, and no problem for sensitive skin Disadvantages: lid doesnt stay on, can look patchy if skin is dry
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Sep 6th, 2004
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