Life Hack: How to get a Dancing with the Stars glow with your false tan at home

Just because we buy a lot of fake tan does not mean we are pros at applying it - as plenty a streaky leg and crusty-looking elbow can attest

Winter air can dry out your skin, leading to patchy tans. Keep your skin hydrated by using a rich moisturiser daily.

Have you been watching Dancing with the Stars? The glitz and glam of the programme has been a welcome respite from these dull January days and nights as each week celebrities waltz across our screens. One aspect of the show that I’ve been admiring is the envious glow of their skin. Despite the winter gloom, these celebrities are sporting a gorgeous summer glow.

As it happens, those glowing complexions are thanks to one Irish brand: Bellamianta, the official tan sponsor for RTÉ’s Dancing with the Stars. In fact, the brand has been behind the false tanning on the show for eight years in a row.

While I’m happy to embrace the pale at the best of times, there is something tempting about mastering a sun-kissed complexion during the palest time of year – it's also the safest way to get a tan, as avoiding the sun’s rays will limit your risk of developing skin cancer and signs of premature ageing (remember to wear SPF all year too, even on cloudy days).

Luckily, Irish people are well aware of the benefits of false tanning making us one of the biggest consumers of the product globally. In 2023, research released by Penneys showed that fake tan was one of the top-selling cosmetic lines at the retailer, with 60% of the retailer’s global fake tan sales happening within the Republic of Ireland.

However, just because we buy a lot of it does not mean we are pros at applying it, as plenty a streaky leg and crusty-looking elbow can attest.

With this in mind, I asked Bellamianta for some insider tips on how to get the perfect summer glow at any time of the year.

“Winter doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your sun-kissed glow. With the right combination of gradual tanning products, spray tan sessions, and proper skin care, you can glow all year round,” a spokesperson says.

They have shared some tips on how to maintain a radiant complexion through the dark winter months so you feel like summer never left.

Embrace gradual tanning products: Gradual tanning products are lifesavers during winter. These products let you build a tan subtly over several applications, preventing streaks and allowing you to control the depth of your colour. Look for formulas with hydrating ingredients to combat winter dryness.

Exfoliation is key: Before applying any self-tanner or heading to the salon for a spray tan, exfoliate your skin thoroughly. This step removes dead skin cells, creating a smooth canvas for even colour application. Use a gentle scrub or a mitt, paying special attention to elbows, knees, and ankles where tan can cling.

Don’t skip on moisturiser: Winter air can dry out your skin, leading to patchy tans. Keep your skin hydrated by using a rich moisturiser daily. On tanning days, whether it is self-tan or spray tan, ensure you apply moisturiser to areas prone to dryness (like knuckles, elbows, and ankles) to ensure your tan looks natural and even. It is essential to choose an oil-free formula, as oils can break down tan molecules, leading to patchy results.

Invest in a spray tan: If self-tanning feels daunting, a professional spray tan can be a game-changer. Salons now offer formulas that cater to various skin tones, ensuring a natural look. Spray tans last longer on hydrated skin, so keep up with your moisturising routine.

Extend your tan’s lifespan: To make your spray tan last, avoid hot showers and harsh soaps, which can strip colour. Instead, opt for lukewarm water and sulphate-free cleansers. Pat your skin dry after bathing rather than rubbing and apply a gradual tanner every few days to maintain your glow.

Use bronzing powder for a quick fix: For a sun-kissed look on short notice, bronzing powders and glow products are your best friends. Apply them to high points of your face—like cheekbones, forehead, and nose—for a natural, sunlit effect. You can also apply the bronzer across your collarbones for a full-body glow.