Self-tanning has to be among the most heavily evolved beauty categories of the last decade. From elegant textures to advanced delivery systems, today’s options seem endless. With staples in my bathroom for the last year, and just joining Sephora (YASSS!), the James Read brand just debuted a subtle new look and added some amazing formulas to its line up. Talking masterpieces that don’t need fixing and major JR newness, my last couple of weeks were all about the Tan Perfecting Enzyme Peel Mask, Gradual Day Tan Body and Express Bronzing Mousse.
Almost an insurance policy for a flawless glow, the James Read Tan Perfecting Enzyme Peel Mask is an ideal partner for any facial self-tanner. Hydrating, soothing, and exfoliating, this resurfacing peel-off mask utilizes potent botanicals to prep the skin for a seamless and lasting tan. Fueled by nourishing plant extracts (Green Tea, Grape, Pineapple, Passionfruit), renewing Papaya, Sugar Cane, and astringent properties of Witch Hazel, this latest is a full on skincare treatment.
Cleanse and exfoliate your face first. Next, apply the Tan Perfecting Enzyme Peel Mask. Relax for 10-20 minutes. Fast drying, deliciously scented and mess free, it is incredibly user friendly. Easily removed, it prepares your skin for an impeccable self-tanner application. A true multi-tasker, this James Read invention is ideal to use between your color boosting rituals or after what sounded like a good idea when you had that bottle of wine home alone. ($22 – 75ml)
Perfect for those looking to build up to their desired shade gradually, the Day Tan Body formula is a James Read staple and a favorite of many. Light and creamy, this body lotion is studded with ingredients of the highest quality. Deeply hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, anti-aging Red Algae, firming Co-Enzyme Q10, and regenerating Provitamin B5 make this luxurious self-tanner pretty outstanding.
A single application delivers a perfectly subtle glow that should really be our year round pre-requisite. Keep the shade going with a fresh layer of Day Tan every few days or build it up steadily to a desired depth of gold. I mix this particular formula with plain lotion to cover my feet, knees and elbows and to avoid the heavy pigment overlay one will experience in places with naturally drier skin. ($45 – 200ml)
Saving the best for last, the James Read Express Bronzing Mousse wins the self-tanning game hands down. Slightly intimidating at first, this non-aerosol liquid-to-foam pumps out dark! Like, Nutella dark and OMG no wonder I’m obsessed – I love Nutella! Light and airy and super fast drying, this treatment is like a bronzing stain with incredible staying power. Unlike you do with the Day Tan, use a body moisturizer before applying Express Bronzing Mousse. The color is insanely realistic and starts developing the second you put it on. Immediately visible, it deepens for the next three or so hours peaking at the perfect hue of ‘haute damn’.
Definitely pick up the James Read Tanning Mitt before you play with the Express Bronzing Mousse. If you’re so sure you don’t need one, stock up on limes and lemons or baking soda so you can get your hands clean after you’re done. Having gone from Drew Barrymore in ‘Never Been Kissed’ to Jessica Alba in ‘Into the Blue’ overnight, this is one of the most fabulous self-tanners I’ve used. Beyond impressive, this new mousse needs to come in a travel size ASAP. No one will ever know it rained every minute of your vacation. ($45 – 200ml, Tanning Mitt $6.50)
Check out the entire range at Sephora.com in the US and www.jamesreadtan.com, qvcuk.com in the UK.
I wanna be Jessica! 🙂 I’m gonna try and remember this one.