Alysa’s glow: the secret behind hollywood’s most coveted tan
Isabel Alysa is moving – fast. A Kim Kardashian spray-tan appointment awaits, another tick on the schedule of a woman who’s practically synonymous with flawless, coveted skin. From Kylie Jenner to Selena Gomez, a constellation of A-listers trusts Alysa to deliver the ‘glow’ – and she’s also the architect behind the TikTok-fueled success of Dolce Glow.
Decoding the illusion: alysa’s secrets to a streak-free summer
It’s a demanding business, crafting the illusion of sun-kissed radiance without the risk of unsightly streaks or blotchy patches. Alysa, a graduate of the University of Toronto with a distinctly analytical approach to her craft, breaks it down: the cardinal sin is shaving the day of application. The exfoliation process, while seemingly beneficial, amplifies the self-tanner’s pigment, leading to a dramatically uneven result. “Wait at least three days after shaving,” she advises, a bluntness that reflects her no-nonsense approach to the industry.
The science of the bronze
Beyond the procedural, Alysa delves into the technicalities. DHA – dihydroxyacetone – is the star ingredient, reacting with skin proteins to mimic the effect of sunlight. But achieving a truly natural look requires precision. “Dry areas absorb more pigment,” she explains, outlining a strategy of using significantly less product on elbows, knees, hands, and feet, or opting for a lighter tanning mist in those zones. Even the placement of spray is key – a ‘bear claw’ technique around the wrists, mimicking the subtle variations of a real tan, is crucial to avoid giveaway marks.
Beyond the basics: extending the illusion
Maintaining that coveted glow isn’t just about the initial application. Alysa stresses the importance of hydration – daily moisturizing and ample water intake are paramount. Surprisingly, she dismisses dry brushing as a guaranteed tan-stripping method, explaining that it primarily removes surface dead skin cells, allowing the DHA to sit deeper. “It’s about skin health, not aggressive exfoliation,” she asserts.
Insider tip: kardashian-approved secret
And for a truly seamless finish? “I spray her hair part,” Alysa reveals, a detail gleaned from her work with Kim Kardashian. “It creates a cohesive, believable radiance from every angle. The result? A perfected look that's undeniably natural.”
Product recommendations
Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops ($50) – for a buildable glow. Saltyface Tanning Water ($42) – a favorite for its ease of use. Coola Organic Sunless Tan ($54) – a luxurious serum that hydrates and tans. Cyklar Self Tanning Milky Essence ($36) – for even application. Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad Self-Tanner ($48) – an innovative device for a streak-free tan. Jergens Natural Glow Self Tanner Lotion ($12) – a drugstore staple for a subtle bronze.