I was in Sephoria last week shopping for a self tanner when the sales lady talked me into the Tarte CellufIGHT Self Tanner. I was told it would give a self tan but would also decrease cellulite. Here is what the company says:

celluFIGHT™ is formulated with skinTIGHT™ complex , a proprietary anti-cellulite complex that firms and tones skin while improving elasticity. Plant and bio-nutrient extracts boost cellular metabolism shedding excess fat tissue. Caffeine helps stimulate blood flow immediately reducing “the orange peel” effect on problem areas such as waist, hips, thighs and buttocks. This anti-cellulite natural self-tanner contains clinically-proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that prevent the long-term build-up of fat tissue under the skin.

Clinical Results:

My Review: The lotion is very thick, but not greasy and it makes my skin super soft. I used it on my face and it didn't make my skin look oily. I haven't noticed any cellulite reduction, but it's only been a week. As for the self tanner, it's very, very light and you have to apply it twice to notice any difference. That said, once the color does appear it's flawless in the even distribution on my whole body and face. There isn't a line or darker spot to be found, even by my wrists. It's rather expensive for self tanner, $40, but if you have the extra money, it's worth it.

If you're reading this blog, I'm assuming you know enough about skin care to know that the first and foremost WORST thing for your skin is too much sun. Obviously, we all spend a certain amount of time in the sun, but if you're like me, you have sunscreen on every exposed area of your body. This creates a dilemma for me, because I love the look of bronzed skin. I've tried many different self tanners and have only found two that look natural and leave my skin soft and golden. These two self tanners are Skinceuticals Sans Soleil ($34) and Clarins Delicious Self tanning creme ($40).

Most self-tanning products use the tanning agent DHA (dihydroxy acetone),which when used alone can cause dryness and create an uneven, orange, unnatural-looking tan. Both Sans Soleil and Clarins contains erythrulose, a unique DHA enhancer. The combination of DHA and erythrulose helps ensure a more even, streakless, longer lasting tan without increasing dryness.

One thing that must be done before applying self tanner, no matter how good the lotion, is exfoliate.  Get rid of all the dry, flaky skin first (especially around the knees and elbows), otherwise the self tanner will look darker in these places. Below is a picture of self tanner applied unevenly...the results speak for themselves.