Farmers tan is a real thing, and it can be really frustrating when you want to wear a tank top but don’t want to sport the uneven tan. Fortunately, there are some tips and tricks you can use to even out your farmer’s tan. Here are some of the best methods:
Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliating is one of the best ways to even out a farmer’s tan. When you exfoliate, you slough away the dead skin cells that are causing the unevenness. If you’ve never exfoliated before, start by using a gentle scrub once or twice a week. As your skin gets used to it, you can increase the frequency to once a day.
Choose an Exfoliating Scrub
Choose an exfoliating scrub that’s appropriate for your skin type. Avoid any scrubs that contain microbeads, which can damage your skin and harm the environment. Instead, opt for a scrub with natural exfoliants like sugar or salt. You can also make your own scrub by combining sugar or salt with a moisturizing oil like coconut oil.
Exfoliate in the Shower
To exfoliate, wet your skin and apply the scrub in circular motions. Focus on the areas that are darker than the rest of your body. Rinse off the scrub in the shower and pat your skin dry with a towel. Apply a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
Use a Self-Tanner
If your farmer’s tan is stubborn and won’t even out with exfoliation, a self-tanner can help. However, it’s important to use it correctly to ensure that you get an even tan.
Choose a Self-Tanner
Choose a self-tanner that’s appropriate for your skin type. If you have fair skin, choose a lighter shade as you can always build up the color. For darker skin, opt for a darker shade. You can also find self-tanners specifically designed for the face.
Exfoliate Before Using a Self-Tanner
Before using the self-tanner, exfoliate your skin to ensure an even application. Apply the self-tanner in circular motions, starting at your feet and working your way up. Use a tanning mitt or gloves to avoid staining your hands.
Don’t Forget the Hard-to-Reach Spots
Don’t forget to apply the self-tanner to the hard-to-reach spots like your back, behind the knees, and elbows. You can ask a friend, significant other, or invest in a tanning applicator to help you reach these spots.
Protect Your Skin from the Sun
One of the best ways to prevent a farmer’s tan is to protect your skin from the sun. Sunscreen is key to preventing sun damage and uneven tanning.
Choose a Sunscreen
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply the sunscreen liberally to your skin 15-20 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.
Cover Up
Another way to protect your skin from the sun is to cover up. Wear a hat, a long-sleeved shirt, and long pants to protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated can help your skin stay healthy and reduce the appearance of a farmer’s tan. Drinking plenty of water can help your skin stay moisturized and prevent dryness.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to stay hydrated. You can also eat foods high in water content like fruits and vegetables.
Moisturize Your Skin
In addition to drinking water, moisturizing your skin is key to keeping it healthy. Use a moisturizer daily to keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness.
Conclusion
These methods can help you even out a farmer’s tan and keep your skin healthy. However, it’s important to remember to protect your skin from the sun and stay hydrated to prevent future uneven tanning.
FAQs
- What is a farmer’s tan?
- How can I prevent a farmer’s tan?
- Why is it important to exfoliate?
- Can I even out a farmer’s tan with makeup?
- How long does it take to even out a farmer’s tan?
A farmer’s tan is an uneven tan that’s caused by spending a lot of time outdoors with your arms and legs exposed to the sun.
You can prevent a farmer’s tan by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing like hats and long-sleeved shirts.
Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells that can cause uneven tanning and makes your skin smoother and brighter.
Yes, you can use a bronzer or self-tanner specifically designed for the face to even out a farmer’s tan on your face.
It depends on your skin type and the severity of the tan. It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to even out a farmer’s tan.
References
- Mayo Clinic. (2020, June 13). Sunburn: Causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sunburn/symptoms-causes/syc-20355922
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). How to Apply Sunscreen. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/sunscreen-patients/how-to-apply-sunscreen
- Healthline. (2021, June 3). How Often Should You Exfoliate Your Face and Body? https://www.healthline.com/health/how-often-should-you-exfoliate