Packing for Costa Rica in early December is definitely a first world problem. Throw in being ‘a whiter shade of pale’ and you have a white girl problem! While I completely trust my James Read facial self-tanners, I have always shied away from his body formulas. Until now. After using Sleep Mask Tan and Express Mask Tan for Body back to back, I am ready to run around the rain forest half naked. You know what they say: if you can’t tone it, tan it. #NakedTruth
Mimicking my favorite facial formulas, these James Read self-tanners for the body are just as easy to use. Keeping things consistent with their facial equivalents, both Sleep Mask Tan and Express Mask Tan Body have the identical clearish, light-gelish consistency and a non-descript subtle scent. Soothing and hydrating, they offer perks in addition to the shots of color. #TrueColors
My two day tan-xperiment began with the James Read Sleep Mask Tan – Body Edition. Featuring moisture boosting Hyaluronic Acid, soothing Aloe Leaf Juice, refreshing Cucumber Extract, and firming Red Algae, the formula sinks right in and leaves the skin feeling revived and toned. This little pre-vacay self-tan activity turned into a couples project, so the husband did my back and vice versa. Wash your hands, go to bed. #SleepingWithTheTANemy
We both awakened slightly darker but still Caucasian. The sheets? No stains. YASSS! Looking rested and feeling fresh, it was time to top things off. We applied the Express Mask Tan–same routine, same mitt, way less time. #BackToTheGrind
James Read Express Mask Tan for the body is an elevated version of his Sleep Mask, so the ingredient deck is significantly punched up. In addition to the aforementioned benefits, Express Mask boasts Caffeine, Jojoba and Damask Rose Oils, Vitamin B, and Yogurt Extract. Just as absorbent, it feels light and comforting upon application. Customize its power and hop into the shower after 30 minutes for stellar improvement. Or, keep it on for an hour to get a more intense effect. After rinsing off, Express Mask continues to develop over the next few hours. You’ll see immediate results and they’ll continue to get better as the day unfolds. #BodyOfWork
Not surprisingly, the Sleep Mask Tan and Express Mask Tan body formulas rival their counterparts for the face. James Read proves that doing one thing well is a multifaceted talent. If you’re under pressure like I was this week, splurge on both bottles. I simply refuse to look like an albino sloth in Costa Rica this weekend. #TanIsOfTheEssence!
Happy to report both Sleep Mask Tan and Express Mask Tan are as foolproof on the body as they are on the face. With a few very minimal flaws (don’t drink and self-tan!!!), the color is extremely realistic and ultra forgiving. Equally easy to use, my top pick is Express but that’s because I lack patience and can’t plan much in advance. Then again, the Sleep Mask is such an easy addition to anyone’s evening routine! Either formula is a winner, depending on your needs. #ReadON!
James Read Sleep Mask Tan Body – $60 (6.67 oz.) available at Sephora.com and in the UK on QVCUK.com for £34.
James Read Express Mask Tan Body – $62 (6.67 oz.) available at Amazon.com, net-a-porter.com. Also on QVCUK.com for £33.
Non-negotiable and an absolute must-have is the James Read Tanning Mitt $6.50 at Amazon.com
