Get A Safe Glow — Self-Tanner Comparison

For the past few summers I have been enjoying experimenting with self-tanners.  I am very wary of the sun and try to wear lots of sunscreen when I go out.  Plus, I am not much of a sunbather anyway.

It has taken me these few years to get self-tanning right.  It is so easy for skin to become streaky or blotchy after self-tanning.  But if you exfoliate the skin and slather moisturizer on your hands and feet (these places can look uneven), plus use a fab product like the ones below, self-tanners can make you look great!

I have been receiving samples of self-tanners to review for my honest opinion. Here’s what I think of the gradual self tanners and instant self-tanners I have been using.

Supergoop! 'Gradual Self-Tanning' Sunscreen Mousse SPF 20
Supergoop! ‘Gradual Self-Tanning’ Sunscreen Mousse SPF 20

Supergoop! ‘Gradual Self-Tanning’ Sunscreen Mousse SPF 20 ($38 USD) – Antioxidant-rich formula improves skins appearance and provides a slight lustrous summer sheen to the skin upon application.  Let Supergoop help prepare you for a day in the sun with this melt into your skin, gradual self-tanning mousse also delivering globally approved SPF protection, and rich moisture in one easy step.  Sensitive, dry skin is soothed and restored; Wonderful and light, green tea plus cucumber scent.

Pros: Easy to blend, very moisturizing, doesn’t stain hands, spf 20, non-streaky

Cons: funky scent, takes a few days of use to see a noticeable difference (could be a pro if you want a light tan), spendy

Jergens Natural Glow + Protect Daily Moisturizer Sunscreen
Jergens Natural Glow + Protect Daily Moisturizer Sunscreen

Jergens Natural Glow + Protect Daily Moisturizer Sunscreen ($9.99 USD) – Spring has arrived, so it’s time to show some skin. Get natural-looking color gradually, with SPF 20. Jergens®Jergens® Natural Glow + PROTECT Daily Moisturizer SPF 20 is the only body moisturizer in the Natural Glow line with SPF protection. Try it today for A beautiful, safe, and healthy natural-looking color.

Pros: Nice scent at first, moisturizing, non-streaking, can see a bit of a difference the next day and deepens quickly with a few days of use, affordable

Cons: leaves a lingering mild chemical scent

Learn more at www.jergens.com. Available at mass market retailers near you.

tarte Brazilliance™ skin rejuvenating maracuja face and body self tanner with mitt
tarte Brazilliance™ skin rejuvenating maracuja face and body self tanner with mitt

tarte Brazilliance™ skin rejuvenating maracuja face and body self tanner with mitt ($37 USD) – A revolutionary maracuja-infused face and body self tanner. Achieve a healthy faux-glow while drenching your skin in moisture. This revolutionary hybrid gel formula, infused with pure maracuja oil, delivers replenishing essential fatty acids along with skin-brightening and youth-preserving vitamin C. tarte’s proprietary PUREshield™ scent-control technology allows for a pleasant, spa-like application that smells unlike any self tanner you’ve tried before.  You’ll be admiring your newly bronzed bod, your skin will feel and look firmer, brighter and smoother soaking in all of the benefits of maracuja oil.

Pros: tinted so that you can see where you apply, comes with a mitt so hands won’t stain, nice scent, imparts a deep tan color, leaves skin very soft, worth the price!

Cons:  scent turns chemical and stays on skin for a day or two 

Purchase at www.tartecosmetics.com and http://www.qvc.com

Vita Liberata pHenomenal Self Tanner
Vita Liberata pHenomenal Self Tanner

Vita Liberata pHenomenal Self Tanner ($54 USD) –pHenomenal gives a longer-lasting tan – up to 4 times longer than any other tan, with a perfect, natural fade.  Available in Fair, Medium and Dark.  

Incorporates new technology (pHeno2) that works with unique Time Release DHA which slowly releases DHA over time to extend tan – lasts 4 times longer than any other tan. 

Mousse formulation is quick-drying, light and airy to give a beautiful, natural bronze result which leaves the skin soft and moisturized.

Pros: foam is light, tinted and easy to blend, beautiful deep tan color, initial smell with application ends and there is NO scent afterwords, which I have never encountered in a self-tanner (worth the steep price!)

Cons: spendy (but worth it)

Available at www.vitaliberatausa.com, Availability: Sephora/Sephora.com

 

Somerville Glow to Go
Somerville Glow to Go

Kate Somerville Glow to Go ($18 USD) —

Somerville360® Body Self Tanning Towelettes make it easy to get a gorgeous glow with just a simple swipe. With a quick and easy application that prevents uneven tone or streaking, it’s the best way to get a healthy-looking tan. Best of all, because this advanced formula works with your skin’s own proteins, it gradually darkens to an ultra-natural, complementary color every time.

Somerville360® Face Self Tanning Pads are quick and easy-to-use while preventing uneven tone and streaking, plus they won’t stain hands. Specially designed for the face, this advanced moisturizing formula contains powerful Peptide K8™ and age-defying actives, designed to diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles, while creating a glowing complexion in two to four hours.

Kit includes:

Pros: Deep tan color is almost instant, easy to use – especially the face pads, leaves skin very soft

Cons: Chemical scent after tanning lasts a day or two, make sure to exfoliate and lotion up feet and hands because this can streak if not blended well 

Somerville360 Tan Maximizer Tan Enhancing Moisturi
Somerville360 Tan Maximizer Tan Enhancing Moisturizer

Somerville360 Tan Maximizer Tan Enhancing Moisturizer ($48 USD) -Stay gorgeous, golden, and glowing with a unique formula that conditions and moisturizes skin for a longer lasting tan. A specialized Peptide and Lipid Complex hydrates skin to help maintain a sun-kissed look after using self-tanning products or sun exposure. Black Snakeroot conditions, moisturizes, and soothes skin for after-sun recovery that prevents peeling and dryness. Rich natural Oils and Butters seal in hydration, making this essential formula a great year-round moisturizer to maximize and help prolong a healthy looking tan.

  • Enhances the look of both natural and self tanning
  • Prolongs the life and beauty of a tan
  • Provides soothing post-sun recovery, replenishing essential lipids that condition and moisturize
  • Helps prevent peeling and dryness by providing continuous

This is great to use after all self-tanning products (and from sun exposure, we can’t always stay out of the sun).

www.katesomerville.com, www.qvc.com

Enjoy!

 

 

 

Try A New Self-Tanning Product From Beauty Bar

Calling all sun worshipers – extend your summer glow into fall with products from Beauty Bar.

Skin-loving, self-tanning essentials that deliver a healthy-looking glow will extend your summer tan into next season.Achieve a stunning, luminous bronzed glow without exposing your skin to the sun’s harmful UV rays. It might sound too good to be true, but it can be done with these luxuriously formulated self-tanning products from Beauty Bar.

Dedicated to catering to a beauty-savvy, sophisticated clientele, Beauty Bar delivers the exclusive products from luxe domestic and international brands, and the chic boutique’s selection of self tanners lives up to its high standards. “As many people are aware, sun exposure leads to a greater risk of developing skin cancer, as well as other harmful photo-aging side effects,” says Beauty Bar’s Medical Director Dr. Robert T. Anolik. “That’s why if you’re looking to get tan, you should opt for safe self-tanning methods that don’t require you to bake under the sun.”

Get glowing with these self-tanning essentials from Beauty Bar that guarantee your bronzed look will last well into the fall:

Philosophy Here Comes the Sun Gradual Self Tanner for Face

Philosophy Here Comes the Sun Gradual Self Tanner for Face ($26 USD) — Here Comes the Sun Gradual Self Tanner for Face gives skin a natural-looking golden glow, while helping to improve the signs of aging. Who needs the sun when you can have a sun-inspired golden glow? This product allows you to find your perfect glow without the harmful effects of the sun. It doesn’t just give your skin a glow, it gives it skin-loving ingredients to help improve the signs of aging. This self-tanner gradually delivers color for a remarkably natural-looking golden glow, while an amino acid complex helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The oil-free, non-greasy formula absorbs easily. Use it each day to increase intensity, and find your perfect glow.

Kate Somerville Somerville 360 Tanning Towelettes

Kate Somerville Somerville 360 Tanning Towelettes ($48 USD for 8) — It’s easy to get a gorgeous glow with just a simple swipe. Kate Somerville Somerville360¦ Tanning Towelettes offer an incredible sun-kissed look that doesn’t require SPF. With a quick and easy application that prevents uneven tone or streaking, it’s the best way to get a healthy-looking tan. Because this advanced formula works with your skin’s own proteins, it gradually darkens to an ultra-natural, complementary color every time.

  • Towelettes containing paraben-free self-tanning formula
  • Produces a uniform, natural-looking glow on the skin
  • Delivers a quick and even application with no streaking

Hampton Sun Sunless Tanning Gel ($32 USD) — Get the bronzed skin you crave without the harmful effects of the sun. Hampton Sun Sunless Tanning Gel gives an ultra-natural looking, streak-free tan within just a few hours of application. Using natural and organic ingredients, this hypo-allergenic self-tanner leaves the skin incredibly smooth with no lingering scent.

  • Self-tanner that delivers an ultra-natural looking tan
  • Streak-free with no lingering scent
  • Contains natural and organic ingredients including walnut oil, aloe, and vitamins A through E
Omorovicza Glam Glow

Omorovicza Glam Glow ($85 USD) —

In just a few hours, Omorovicza’s Glam Glow gives the face and body a natural-looking golden glow, while hints of lemon and tangerine in this self-tanning lotion lift the spirits and precious oils replenish the skin.

  • Self-tanning lotion
  • Natural-looking golden glow
  • Light lemon and tangerine scent

All products are available on http://www.beautybar.com.

Enjoy!

Laura Geller Glow-n-Behold Collection

Summer is on it’s way!  Actually, it feels like it is here in Kansas City. It is supposed to be in the 80’s all week.  So it is time to break out the bronzers and light summer makeup.

So I have to say yay for Laura Geller’s Glow-n-Behold kit.  This isn’t only for Summer, but makes you look like you have been enjoying the fresh air and relaxation that the season can bring.

I always love the quality of Laura’s makeup and this set is no different.

Includes:

  • 0.30-fl-oz Dream Creams Concealer & Highlighter Palette in Porcelain/Fair or Regular/Tan–exclusive to QVC until 8/4/12!
  • 0.85-oz Baked Body Frosting in Tahitian Glow, a tan/cream/pearly pink swirl–Best Seller!
  • 0.23-oz Baked Blush Mono Cheek Color in Bora Bora, a pearlescent peach-pink–exclusive to QVC until 8/4/12!
  • 0.12-oz Double-Dipped Lipstick 2-in-1 Creamy Lip Color in Caribbean Kiss, nude petal pink/glazed butter caramel–exclusive to QVC until 8/4/12!
  • Puff applicator for Baked Body Frosting

Suggested Use:

Dream Creams Concealer & Highlighter Palette: Using your ring finger or a small brush (not included), apply any of the creamy stripes of concealer to undereye area and dark, recessed parts of the face. You can also use it to cover blemishes, age spots, and other skin imperfections. Blend and layer on two or three colors to get the perfect shade any time of the year (darker for summer, lighter for fall). Finish by applying highlighter over the concealer for luminosity, also dabbing it over cheekbones, brow bones, the center of the nose, and other areas you wish to highlight.

Baked Body Frosting: Using the Body Puff, apply all over skin. Build layers for a deeper bronze. Want richer color? Simply dampen puff and apply over areas you want to intensely tan.

Baked Blush Mono Cheek Color: Using a powder brush (not included), apply on apples of cheeks, blending towards the hairline.

Double-Dipped Lipstick 2-in-1 Creamy Lip Color: Apply directly from tube. For more precise application, use a lip brush (not included) to line and fill in. Wear one shade or blend for a customized look.

What I think:  I like all of these products and think that this is a pretty amazing collection.

The concealer is very creamy and fun to use.  You can used one shade (I used the lightest under my eyes) or combine to get a custom look.  I use the second lightest shade to cover blemishes and a combo to cover redness.  This works very well.

The bronzer is great for legs, but is very dark.  If you are light-skinned like myself, use very sparingly.  Can be used on the face, but is too dark for me.  The color is good, but a little sparkly, so be aware.

The blush is a beautiful color — really pretty!  I think this would look fantastic on all skin tones.

The lipstick is also gorgeous.  I love the pink color, but the bronze is nice, too.  They also look fab combined!

This collection is available at www.qvc.com.  Enjoy!

Australian Gold Continuous Spray SPF 30

Australian Gold Continuous Spray

Australian Gold Continuous Spray SPF 30 ($10.49 USD) — Apply evenly and liberally to all exposed areas 20 minutes before sun exposure.  Reapply as needed or after towel drying, swimming, perspiring or vigorous activity. Use in well-ventilated areas.  Do not spray directly on the face.  Spray into hands and rub on the face.

Features are:

  • Helps prevent sunburn.
  • Retains SPF after 80 minutes of activity in the water or sweating.
  • Provides high protection against sunburn and tanning.

What I think: This is a really effective sunblock.  The spray is easy to apply — it imparts a fine mist so that it covers very well.  It is not greasy and stays on for almost a couple of hours.  Perfect for hot summer days!

Visit  www.australiangold.com to learn more and to find out where to purchase.

My Fave Products For a Flawless Summer Face

The makeup look that I go for in the summer is flawless, but natural.  I don’t want to look like I have tons of stuff on. The products below help me achieve this quickly!

Sorme Fresh Start Under Foundation Makeup Enhancer ($19.00 USD) — This light, fast-drying formula instantly evens out skin discolorations, smoothes skin texture, and fills in fine lines and wrinkles so that makeup goes on evenly and lasts far longer without touch ups. A powerful blotting ingredient holds up to 10 times its weight in oils for a shine-free, poreless finish. Super antioxidants of Green Tea, Grape Seed Extract, and Pomegranate help repair free radical damage. Hyaluronic Acid keeps skin hydrated without oils.

To Use:  After cleansing and moisturizing skin, apply a small amount evenly over entire face. Allow to dry. Apply powder or liquid foundation over.

Why I love it:  Even in the summer, I never skin primer.  I have tried tons of different types, from matte, to bronze to the classic silicon-based primers.  This primer is extremely light, which makes it perfect for the summer. The texture is like a serum, but it produces an almost matte finish.  It removes the oiliness so that my skin looks fresh instead of greasy.  Visit www.sorme.com to find a retailer near you.

One part brightening primer, one part sunscreen, FusionBeauty’s PrimeResults Tinted Moisturizer + SPF 15 Sunscreen ($40.00 USD) delivers a lightweight veil of hydrated coverage. Available in four shades, the built-in primer instantly perfects skin’s texture while helping to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, pores and discoloration while SPF 15 sun protection helps prevent premature skin aging. Toss this in your summer travel bag to maintain fresh and healthy-looking skin all season long.

Why I love it:  This has a primer built in, so if you do not want to use a separate primer its perfect.  I usually don’t use foundation all over my face during summer, but you definitely can with this tinted moisturizer.  I apply it with a sponge on the parts that need help including under eyes and on blemishes and discolorations. It blends in beautifully and feels natural on. You can purchase at Sephora stores or www.sephora.com.

smooth operator™ Amazonian clay finishing powder in bronze ($28.00 USD) — Like the original, this micronized clay finishing powder mattifies skin, minimizes the appearance of pores and replenishes all skin types, now while adding a natural touch of bronze to your complexion. This silky smooth finishing powder glides on evenly and imparts a healthy,
natural warmth while the intuitive and skin smart Amazonian clay, nature’s most perfect ingredient, acts as a total skin balancer by reducing dryness and flakiness, improving clarity and texture, and removing surface oil to mattify skin for a soft and flawless lit-from-within finish; all while replenishing and rehydrating skin.

Why I love it:  Two words — Matte Bronzer!  I LOVE bronzer that is not glittery or shimmery because when you think about it, the sun doesn’t add sparkle when you get a tan.  Some matte bronzers can make the face look muddy or dirty if you put too much on, but not this one.  It is buildable, so start with a little and add more if you need it.  I put it on the parts of my face where the sun would touch it, like nose, cheekbones, forehead and chin to start. I then usually add it all over my face, neck and decollotage, because it enhances the fake tan I’m rocking and looks so natural.  Great bronzer! Retail availability: Sephora/Sephora.com, Ulta/Ulta.com, beauty.com, tarte.com at the $28; retail price: $42 w/brush at QVC/QVC.com.

Glow On With beautyADDICTS

beautyADDICTS has a great system to give your face a glowing summer look without the glitter that is only age-appropriate for the very young.  Here is what they suggest:

First start with a bronzer that is a versatile shade and does not have an abundance of “shimmer”. Hydra SUNRays Bronzing Powder ($28.00 USD) provides buildable coverage in one flawless shade and is formulated with pure pearl powder to stimulate cell renewal. Packed with healthy ingredients such as green tea and Vitamins A, C, D and B5, it contains amino acids that help to exfoliate dead skin cells and bring forth a natural, fresh glow.  Apply HydraSUNRays Bronzing Powder to the cheeks, nose, forehead, ears and neck for an even look.

To complete your sun-kissed complexion you have to subtlely highlight those areas of the face that need a heathy “shine”. If you haven’t tried GlimmerSHEERS ($28.00 USD) then you have never experienced such a multipurpose product that leaves skin looking and feeling radiant and healthy. Each GlimmerSHEERS compact holds two unique formulas in complimentary shades. The Sheer formula is loaded with Jojoba Oil to fight wrinkles and hydrate and enhance glowing skin while the Glimmer formula contains Green Tea for ultimate anti-oxidant protection and stimulates collagen and elastin production for a sun-kissed, elegant sheen. 

Pro Tip: Apply HydraSUNRays Bronzing Powder and GlimmerSHEERS with a flawless makeup sponge like beautyblender.  Moisten your Beautyblender and apply product along the brow bone, cheekbone, décolleté or down the bridge of the nose for a contouring effect.

What I think:  This is the perfect easy summer duo. The matte bronzer is perfect for a natural looking summer glow or a great contour powder.  The S on top highlights and gives face even more dimension.  One color or texture (all matte, all glowy) can make the face appear one-dimensional.  This duo imparts the perfect, healthy look of the sun, without damaging the skin!  

BeautyADDICTS HydraSUNRays Bronzing Powder and GlimmerSHEERS retail for $28 each at a salon near you and is available online at www.beautyaddicts.com.

Self Tanners For A Golden Glow Without The Sun

It’s tanning time!  My pale skin has been crying out for some color.  So I have tried the products below and have had mostly successful results.  I recommend these to help kick-start your summer color without the harmful rays of the sun.

Sun Laboratories Dark Sun Set (List Price: $85.95,  Price: $39.95, You Save: $46.00 (54%) — This sunless tanning system is a must try for anyone who likes to have a great tan all year round. This system is very easy to use.

First exfoliate your whole body with Exfoliating Body Gel to clean and revitalize skin. Then apply Tan Maintainer Moisturizer on any dry area. This will keep your tan looking flawless. Then apply everyday to help maintain your tan.

Apply Sun Labs Dark Sunless Tanning Lotion all over body. This product is so gentle you can even use it on your face. It comes out a nice chocolate brown so you can see where it is being applied. This great tan will last 5 to 7 days. Apply every few days to get even a darker richer tan.

Sun Labs Beach Bag is a great gift with purchase. You will find many uses for this bag.

This set includes:
1 Dark Self-Tanning Lotion 8 oz
1 Exfoliating Body Scrub 8 oz
1 Tan Maintaining Moisturizing Lotion 8 oz
1 Exfoliating Net Sponge
1 Sun Labs Beach Bag (Gift with Purchase)

Visit www.sunlabsonline.com to learn more and purchase.

Beautisol Need I Glow More? Face Self-Tanning Lotion For Normal-Oily-Problematic Skin Types($26.00 USD) is the first ever skin-type-specific face self-tanning lotion.

Features & benefits:

  • Created specifically for normal to oily or problematic skin types
  • Infused with Montmorillonite Clay, Lilac Stem Cell, and Niacinamide to help reduce inflammation and improve acne
  • Lightweight formula prevents the skin from feeling heavy or greasy
  • Pure Scent odor-eliminating technology reduces processing odor
  • Guide color allows you to see exactly where you have applied the product and where you may have missed, reducing streaking and application mishaps
  • Paraben-free, propylene gycol-free, sodium laurel/laureth sulfate-free, and cruelty-free (PETA certified)

Need I Glow More is also available in Normal-Dry-Sensitive Skin Types. Learn more and purchase at www.beautisol.com.

L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Clear Self-Tanning Gel($10.49 USD) — is an innovative, first-to-mass clear gel spray self-tanner that is free of parabens. It combines the comfort of a cooling gel formula with the convenience of a spray bottle for easy, mess-proof application. Infused with a light citrus scent, the clear formula works by utilizing proteins in the skin and brings out a natural, healthy glow. Just spray it on and gently massage into skin to achieve a streak-free, long-lasting bronze complexion that begins to develop in less than one hour. Available in a medium-tone bronze finish to complement all skin tones, Sublime Bronze™ Clear Self-Tanning Gel can be applied daily until the desired level of color is achieved.

You can purchase this self tanner at drugstores and mass market retailers near you.

New For Spring 2011 From The Body Shop — The Honey Bronze Collection

Honey Bronze For Summer 2011

Transform into a bronze goddess with natural looking shimmer and glow thanks to the new moisturizing Honey Bronze make-up range from The Body Shop. Honey, known as one of nature’s best moisturizers, is used throughout the entire range so you can enjoy even application and a natural-looking bronzed and beautiful complexion. Discover new Honey Bronze Shimmering Dry Oil, Brilliance Powder, Bronzing Gel For Face, Lip Nectar and Bronzing Powder. These products are ideal whether you want a subtle hint of bronze or you prefer deeper tones. You can say goodbye to patchy bronzing thanks to the honey bee, instead enjoy smooth, moisturized skin with a bronzed glow. This range simply wouldn’t be possible without the incredible work of the honey bee, providing the honey and beeswax used across the range.

Honey Bronze Shimmering Dry Oil ($14) You are bound to love this light-weight moisturizing body oil. It gives skin a natural-looking beautifully bronzed shimmering glow, with a dry finish.  Long-lasting and streak-free, it contains Community Fair Trade honey from Ethiopia and beeswax from Cameroon to moisturize. That’s right, these are two perfect ingredients for inclusion in this bronzing product, moisturizing, softening and smoothing your skin. Apply to your body using circular motions.  Wash hands after use.

Honey Bronze Brilliance Powder ($22) This illuminating powder can be applied to your cheeks and collarbone,
leaving skin looking glowing and radiant. Enhance your natural skin color with this easy-to-apply powder, which gives an instant shimmer courtesy of the integrated brush. It contains Community Fair Trade honey from Ethiopia and Community Fair Trade beeswax from Cameroon. Release the powder by twisting the top, and apply directly to your cheeks and décolletage, until you have the perfect depth of color you desire.

Honey Bronze Bronzing Gel For Face ($14) This lightweight moisturizing bronzing gel suits all skin tones, giving an even and natural-looking honey-bronzed glow – it can also be used to enhance a natural tan. It contains Community Fair Trade honey from Ethiopia and beeswax from Cameroon, as well as organic aloe vera from Guatemala. Simply smooth over skin gently, blend for a perfect finish and wash hands after use.

Honey Bronze Bronzing Powder ($18.50) Discover a compact bronzer to give your skin a matte, natural-looking glow. Ideal for a smooth and even finish, simply using a bronzer brush, dust over forehead, cheeks, nose and chin – anywhere the sun naturally touches your face. With four shades available, each contains Community Fair Trade honey from Ethiopia, beeswax from Cameroon and marula oil from Namibia.

Honey Bronze Lip Nectar ($10) The Body Shop has developed two perfect shades of lip gloss to offset your
bronzed look. With a sheer high shine glossy tint, Honey Bronze Lip Nectar is perfect for parched or sun-exposed lips. You can wear these alone or over lip color, providing your lips with great moisturization. Each product contains Community Fair Trade honey, beeswax and marula oil. Available in two shades: Honey Bunch and Honeycomb.

What I think:  I have tried a few of these products.  My favorite is the Bronzing Gel for Face.  It is a really pretty bronze color without any orange to it. I dab it on my cheeks, nose, forehead and chin to mimmick where the sun would give me color.  I also use it as a contour under my cheekbones and at my jaw line.

The Bronzing Powder in light works well all over my face as it gets darker with sunless tanning or as a bronzer.  The other product I tried is the Brilliance Powder which is glittery, so it’s not for me.  I gave it to my teenage daughter and she loves it.

Visit www.thebodyshop.usa-com to learn more and to purchase. 

Luminess Tan — A Flawless Tan Made Easy

Luminess Tan

I don’t use tanning beds and I use a high SPF in the sun. But, I do love a nice tan in the warmer seasons. A tan not only looks healthy, it helps simplify my makeup routine. I have tried a lot of self tanners and no matter what I do, I end up looking a little streaky, and sometimes orange!

I have never tried spray tanning, but was excited to try the Luminess Air Airbrush Tanning — which is kind of like spray tanning at home. This tanning system gives you a sensational tan in the convenience and privacy of your own home without damage or odor! Featuring SoftTan™ Technology for a Natural Even Tan everytime!

Airbrush tanning is not a dye. The primary ingredient in the tanning solution works with the amino acids in the top layer of your skin to produce a natural tan exactly like the sun, but without damaging skin! Luminess airbrush tanning formula won’t run off on your clothes, once the tan is set. Tan lasts up to 14 days and fades gently day by day, as you would expect from a normal sun-blessed tan! Also Luminess tanning solution produces a golden brown color – no orange discoloration insight!

Airbrush tanning uses a precision stylus instrument a little larger than the size of a pen that allows for a smooth, flawless application. Special care is easy in difficult areas, such as the feet, knees, elbows, hairline and face!

Luminess Airbrush Tanning system is also great for spot tanning! Wearing a skirt and want tanned legs? Easy! Give them a light spray and you’re good to go! You can spot tan your legs, arms, shoulders, chest and or face for radiant healthy glow in minutes!

Luminess Airbrush Tanning System ( includes:

  • Compressor
  • Airbrush Stylus
  • Intake Cap (2)
  • Rubber Air Hose
  • AC Power Adapter
  • Tanning Solution (2 bottles which should give you up to 6 full body tanning sessions!)
  • Cleaning Bottle
  • Carrying Case
  • Detailed Instructions
  • Getting Started DVD

What I Think: This is so easy to use. It takes a minute to set up, but once it’s ready, I use the stylus to spray all over. It is a really seamless look. I only get splotches when I spray one area for too long, but that doesn’t happen after getting the hang of it and it’s easy to spot and blend in. The color of the tan is brown, very natural and not at all orange. Gorgeous!

To learn more and purchase visit www.luminessspraytan.com. Enjoy your fab tan!

Becca Cosmetics Can Give You The Perfect Look For Spring and Summer

We have had a few hot days in Kansas City, which has made me long for the summer and tan skin and easy makeup. So I used an at home spray tanning system (will review soon) and broke out the bronzer and shimmery makeup! Oh, I love the fun easy look of summer makeup!

BECCA Cosmetics’ philosophy is about creating a natural, flawless look starting with amazing skin. This is the perfect philosophy when it comes to spring and summer makeup. The following products will provide an easy and pretty face.

Resurfacing Primer Line & Pore Minimizing Formula ($40.00 USD) — Prepare and seal your skin with this invisible Resurfacing Primer which instantly reduces the appearance of dilated pores and smoothes fine lines for a flawless finish. Applied on its own or under foundation, the velvety matte formulation helps to control unwanted shine with its special oil absorbing polymers which act as ‘fillers’ to create a refined base for makeup that will last all day.

What I think: mattifying primer is perfect for hot and oily skin. It also keeps your makeup from melting off of your face.  This primer gives skin a velvety finish and helps makeup stay on all day.

Pressed Shimmer Powder ($38.00 USD) — A delicately fine shimmer powder that lights up the complexion, illuminating darkened areas and lackluster skin and creating a magical glow that seems to emanate from within. Contains ultrafine particles of shimmer (mica) to deflect light and illuminate the skin, creating a natural, radiant look. Does not have a glittery finish and thus can be worn day or night.

What I think: Pretty shimmer, and not too young for women who are a bit more mature and not looking for a glittery face.  Available in 8 shades from a beigey-peach to a rose-pink, which is the most I’ve seen in an illuminating powder. The deeper shades make a really pretty blush. Brush it over bronzer for a lovely summer look.

Jewel Dust ($24.00 USD) — These exquisitely embellished powders add playful colour to the eyes when worn alone, and create rich, exotic tones when layered over neutral eye shadows. Available in a range of enchanting colours from ethereal pastels to dazzling metallics. Created from pure pigments which provide the highest luster and intensity.  Unlike other shimmer powders, this exclusive formulation does not contain talc, fillers, or inferior silver pearl pigments. Can be worn alone or layered over creme and powder eye colour to create unique tones and range of effects. Micro fine shimmer pigments adds illuminating colour to the eyes. Available in 16 shimmery shades.

What I think: This is super pretty for summer. The lighter shades are gorgeous brushed all over the eye and the deeper and brighter shades can be used for an accent or a smoky eye.

Professional Brush Soap ($15.00 USD) — Designed with your prized makeup brushes in mind, this unique Professional Brush Soap is formulated to clean, condition and sanitize, lengthening the lifespan of your brushes and making them work better for you. In a unique vintage-style shaving tin, this soap is designed for all brush shapes and sizes and works on both natural and synthetic fibers.

Unlike shampoo, which is designed for human hair types and can leave brushes limp or brittle, this special soap is universal in its cleansing properties. Its solid formula is made from nourishing plant oils ensuring that it is gentle on brush fibers while tough on product build-up.  Unwashed, brushes can be a common breeding ground for bacteria, which can in turn cause skin irritation and blemishes, along with reduced application performance. Dip the brush in lukewarm water, then with a stroking action, move across the soap until it produces a white lather, working well into the bristles. Rinse under the tap until the water runs clear, squeeze out excess water, reshape, then leave to dry on a clean towel.

What I think: This is a fabulous and affordable cleanser for your brushes. It is so important to keep makeup brushes clean and this is easy and quick. Love it!

Visit www.beccacosmetics.com to learn more and to purchase. Enjoy!