Ashley Graham on How Self-Tanning Helps Her Feel Sexy
Graham's body-care routine is another key component to her feeling confident naked. "A little glow doesn't hurt. Confidence, sexiness, and a rockin' tan — that's hot." But as serious as Graham is about her tan, she's also serious about her sun protection. That's why being a brand ambassador for St. Tropez is such a perfect fit.
Her at-home tanning schedule goes as follows: "One night out of the seven to 10 days I do my self-tanner," said Graham. "It's not on the calendar, but it mostly [depends on] what do I have going on for the week." From start to finish it takes her 45 minutes, which may seem like a long time but she puts in the work when it comes to the prep. After showering and exfoliating she'll lotion all of the dry areas that tend to pick up more colour — ankles, elbows, knees, and feet. "Then, I'll start from the bottom, work my way up," said Graham about applying the tanner. "And it honestly is bada-bing, bada-boom after your first time."
This year she got to create a limited edition kit with the brand called the Ultimate Glow Kit ($55), which features a mitt and the Self Tan Luxe Whipped Crème Mousse. "It's just like the best colour — it's got like a hue of purple to it that just enhances your skin so that you don't look like a sweet potato or anything like that," said Graham. "And it smells so good; it's so easy to put on; it's super hydrating."
If you're a self-tanning newbie your first application process can be a little scary but don't worry — Graham shared her expertise. Rule No. one: use a mitt. "If you use your hand, first of all, you didn't read the instructions," said Graham. "And you're going to be so pissed later because your hands are going to be orange."