Marissa Carter shares her top tanning tips ahead of the weekend

Marissa Carter is one of modern Ireland’s most successful businesswomen. Since launching the world’s first one-hour tan, the mum-of-two has gained cult-status internationally amongst celebrities and beauty editors alike; from the pages of Teen Vogue to the Oscars red carpet.

On 26th September, Marissa will take part in an expert panel for a Media Masterclass in the Westbury Hotel (tickets available here). She will share her story of building an international brand from scratch; allowing you to develop and expand your PR skills and achieve optimal coverage for your brand in these increasingly competitive times. Enjoy delicious canapés and champagne on arrival while availing of the opportunity to network with like-minded guests before we begin our in-depth, comprehensive chat.

But first, Marissa sat down to tell us her top tanning tips, all of which she learned during her time in the beauty industry.

What’s the best way to prep the skin before tanning?

“A fake tan is only as perfect as the skin it is applied to, which is why having soft, smooth, hydrated skin before false tanning is key. Exfoliate well the day before you apply self-tan, paying particular attention to areas such as heels, ankles, knees, elbows and hands, as these are the telltale areas that tan clings to if they’re rough and dry. I recommend waxing two days prior to tanning, or shaving the day before. On tanning day, don’t exfoliate, but do use an oil-free body moisturiser, which will hydrate skin but won’t act as a barrier to your tan. Use Cocoa Brown by Marissa Carter Tough Stuff, €5:95, to exfoliate; and Cocoa Brown by Marissa Carter Chocolate Whip, Oil-Free Body Moisturiser, €5:95, to hydrate.”

Can you sum-up the perfect application in a few steps?

“Always use a tanning mitt to apply your tan. Using the Cocoa Brown By Marissa Carter Deluxe Velvet Double-Sided Tanning Mitt, €5:99, start at the feet and work your way up the body. Apply the tan in circular motions and ensure you cover every area with the same amount of product. Use a flat head, stippling foundation brush to buff tan onto your face, hands and feet.

I made a mistake applying tan – what do I do?

“Cocoa Brown by Marissa Carter Fresh Start Tan Eraser, €9:95, removes all traces of tan in under five minutes. The fast-working formula is tough on tan, yet gentle on the most sensitive skin. Mistakes can be easily fixed with this revolutionary formula!”

How do I tan my back?

“Cocoa Brown Self Tan Back Applicator, €7.99, is the ultimate self-tanning tool. It’s specially designed to get to all of those hard-to-reach places for a flawlessly tanned back. It’s finally time to get those backless dresses out; no more begging your other-half for help to tan those awkward, hard-to-reach places.”

Marissa Carter will join Kathryn Mason (CEO and founder of Masonry) and Gerardine Lally (founder of Lally & Associates) on Wednesday, 26th September at 6 pm. Reserve your tickets today.