The $20 Self-Tanner Lily James Wore to the Critics’ Choice Awards

A red-carpet-worthy glow is something to strive for. You may assume the A-list stars at the Critics Choice Awards get their perfectly toned tans from the sun on an exclusive island or a pricey self-tanning appointment. However, nominee Lily James used a product seen on the shelves of your local drugstore.

Lily, nominated for her role in Pam & Tommy, showed up at the Critics Choice Awards with side-swept bangs and an updo, using Nexxus Unbreakable Care Root Lift Hair Thickening Spray ($16). The focal point of Lily’s look was a sultry strapless sheer dress. Since the dress shows off Lily’s skin, it’s essential to pair it with the perfect subtle tan. To achieve the tint, Lily wore SOL by Jergens Sunless Tanning Water Mousse ($26).

Celebrity makeup artist Jenni Blafer, the woman behind Lily’s tan, notes that the actress has a beautiful natural skin tone, so she simply wanted to enhance it with a coat of the tanning mousse in medium. “This extra depth of color enhances the reflection of the light on the carpet, evens skin tone and softens the contrast of her fabulous black dress,” says Blafer.

To get the most flawless finish, Blafer recommends exfoliating skin 12 to 24 hours before applying the product. For the optimal color, she suggests leaving the mousse on for six hours before rinsing. According to the brand, the color peaks at 24 hours.

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