UK’s tanning expert, James Read has proven to be the a-list international celebrity favourite when it comes to natural or artificial tan. His client list includes Lady Gaga, Lindsay Lohan, Mariah Carey, whom he has worked with for red carpet events such as the Oscars, Brits, Grammys and MTV awards. His work has also grown in momentum in the fashion industry, James contributes to prestigious publications among them Vogue UK and Japan, Grazia, GQ, Harpers Bazaar…

His unique expertise and his obsession for risk free perfect tanning lead to the opening of his own bespoke tanning salon at Agua Spa, Sanderson Hotel, London. For those who are not Londoners or frequent London visitors, allow James to tantalise you online via www.thetantalist.com. Wherever you are there is no reason to not tan, feel and look good.

1. Is tanning a trendy thing?
Over the last 5 years tanning has become more fashionable. It is a part of people’s beauty list; you would not go out without your make up, hair, nails done, that's the same with your self-tan. Gone are the days of the orange unfashionable tan, it is about natural glowing skin, people want that radiant look. At my salon at the Agua Spa, Sanderson Hotel, I call it the Fashion Tan.

2. Is it a real and truthful alternative for natural tan that damages the skin?

OMG yes, its healthy, it looks great and you are not over exposing yourself to the sun. Due to skin cancer people are stepping away from using sun beds and sitting in the sun, self-tanning is the healthy alternative for having a risk-free tan.

3. What is your favourite product on the market?

I think it is crucial to match the right tan with the right (tantone) skin tone; here are my favourites at the moment: for a light tantone (Skin tone) opt for St Tropez Everyday Gradual Tanner, a medium Tantone (skin tone) pick He-Shi Liquid Express Tan and for a dark tantone (skin tone) the best is Xen - Tan Dark Absolute Luxe Lotion. If you want to use a spray then go for L'Oréal Sublime Express Pro, very natural on the skin and easy to use.

4. Could you advise us on a summer tan kit?

It is important to follow some key steps:  tanning preparation, application, daily care. Your kit should reflect this. Use a good exfoliator, I would go for REN Moroccan Rose Otto Sugar Body Polish; when it comes to the actual application go for Fake Bake Flawless Tan (out in a few weeks) – It’s easy to apply, not sticky and allows you to tan and go. I recommend you to apply it with a mitt, map your body out in stages so you don't miss bits; start from your face and work it down, leaving hands and feet till last. The colour is so amazing with this product, it suits all skin tones. For a good moisturiser go for Bliss Lemon and Sage Body Butter to keep your skin hydrated and make your tan last longer.

Swide’s 5 Q/A:
1. Café au lait or chocolate for a tan?

Café au lait.

2. Occasionally or permanently?

Occasionally.

3. Look & be good or be & look good?

It has to be & look good.

4. Indulgence or obsession?

Both.

5. A fake bake or a bake to fake?

A Fake Bake but I would say The Fashion Tan.

Interview by Delphine Hervieu.

Source: www.thetantalist.com