Why does fake tan work at first and then never after?

Question

I have applied many a fake tan to my face and for the first few times it works brilliantly...I look so bronzed. After that tho it gradually does nothing and while I never return to being pale I never reach a great level of tan.

Is it to do with moisture in my face?

Answer 1

I had many clients in my spray tan salon and have never heard of such a problem. In fact, the reverse is often true. The longer you use fake tanners, the longer your skin holds your tan.

There are couple of things that I can think of though, one, you get used to seeing your face brown, and so it "appears" to you that it is still too pale. You can often see that "syndrome" on some people who don't know when to stop tanning. Eventually they look scary they are so dark. It is better to just have a healthy glow rather than a strong tan especially on the face. So, if your skin does not develop deep color, it might actually be doing you a favor.

Second, since the fake tan only affects dead skin cells, it might be that your skin is really good at exfoliating dead skin cells quickly that is why you don't get a deep tan. That is really good too, you will not get wrinkles too quickly. I imagine that in that case your skin is quite oily, dry skin does not behave that way.

If you use skin toners that are exfoliating (might contain alcohol or other exfoliating ingredients) it will take off your fake tan very quickly.

My suggestion, use mineral bronzer on your face if you want it to be darker.  

Answer 2

self tanners have a lot of active ingredients which do not remain active over time. if the product is old, it won't be effective. be sure to check the expiry date.