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The secret to a perfect tan: Understanding undertones


 


There’s so many options to choose from when it comes to spray tan, how do you know which is the right one for your skin tone?


Skin undertones

Undertones refer to the subtle hue beneath your skin's surface. The same principle applies to spray tan formulas, which can have different undertones to create a natural-looking glow that complements your complexion.


To match the right tan to your complexion, we first need to identify your skin undertones. These tend be broken down as follows:




  • Warm - yellow, golden or peachy

  • Cool - Pink, red or blue

  • Neutral - A balance of both warm and cool




Spray tan undertones

Choosing the right combination will ensure a more flattering and natural result - but what is the difference in spray tan base colour?


  1. Green undertones

Best for: Cool or neutral skin tones

Result: Olive, sun-kissed glow

Description: The green base cancels out any redness in your skin, offering a natural olive finish. Great for cooler complexion, creating a balanced, golden glow.


2. Red undertones

Best for: Cool or neutral skin tones

Result: warm, beachy tan

Description: If you burn easily or have a cooler skin tone, this undertone will give you that fresh-off-the-beach glow without appearing too warm or orange.


3. Violet undertones

Best for: All skin tones

Result: Rich, deep bronze tan

Description: The violet is great for neutralising yellow or orange tones, leaving a gorgeous deep brown tan with a hint of coolness. Great for those wanting to achieve a more intense result.


How to find your skin undertone

Here are a few quick tips:


  • Vein test: Look at the veins on your wrist. If they appear more blue or purple, you have a cool undertone. If they appear green, you have a warm undertone. A mix of both?You likely have neutral undertones.


  • Jewellery test: Do you look better in gold or silver jewelry? Gold tends to flatter warm undertones, while silver looks best on cool tones.

  • Sun exposure: If you tan easily and rarely burn, you’re more likely to have a warm undertone. If you tend to burn and then tan, you might have cool undertones.


A lot of the time the perfect tan is down to personal preference - you know what you like best. I always suggest trying different options to help you find your perfect colour.


What will be your choice of tan undertone?

  • Green undertone

  • Red undertone

  • Violet undertone

  • Need help deciding


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