As a teenager, I always sought suggestions for a natural-looking tan with a budget-friendly product. Since I have known how to achieve that tan for decades, now is the time to help others out!
How To Prepare For Self Tanner
If you plan to skip the prep before applying the self-tanner, you might look like “Garfield” the orange cat, and no one wants that, right? Here are some steps to follow:
Exfoliate: Start the exfoliation process at least three days before the tanning day and thoroughly scrub your ankles, elbows, and knees for an even application.
Shave: Remove any body hair and dead skin, as the tan might cling to the hair while self-tanning. It is recommended to shave or wax 24-48 hours before tanning.
Cold Shower: Don’t take hot showers as they might release more heat and take time for your body to return to the natural pH level. Take a cold shower 7-8 hours before tanning.
Moisturize: Use a moisturizer or body lotion that does not cause irritation and lather it the night before tanning. Avoid oil-based serums and skincare.
Remove Jewelry, Makeup, and Lens: Avoid wearing any accessories during the tanning process and contact lenses, as they could cause an allergic reaction or irritation.
Wear Loose Clothing: Ill-fitted or loose clothes increase the chances of smooth, even tan, with less chance of sweating.
Avoid Perfumes and Deodorants: Don’t apply perfumes or deodorants, as they can hinder tanning in any area.
Choosing Area: It’s best to tan in the bathroom or shower area with a big mirror.
Tie Your Hair: Don’t leave your hair open and secure it using a hair clip.
How To Self Tan At Home
Get the best self tan at home with these simple tips and tricks:
Spray
Apply a lotion or primer that is not greasy for smooth application.
Spray the tanner on the applicator mitt or gloves and apply it to the left leg using circular motions.
Gradually, cover the left side of the body first and then move your way to the other side.
Don’t spray directly on your underarms and underlegs; spend most of your time blending the tan in these areas.
To cover the backside of your body, start from the back of your neck and then move downwards.
Once your whole body is covered, apply the tan on your face using a soft bristle brush.
Contour the cheeks, define your jawline, and blend the tan in your hairline.
Wait for the best results for 12-13 hours and rinse off in the shower.
Wipes
Wash your hands properly and apply Vaseline or thick lotion to protect your palms from strong color.
Separate the towelette and apply the first one on your legs.
Save ankles, elbows, face, and knees for last.
You’ll need one wipe for your lower body and one for your upper body, so be careful not to overdo it.
Keep using circular motions for even spread and cover your entire body.
Once the application is done, apply the used wipes to the ankles, elbows, and knees, as these areas absorb the most product.
For the face, it depends on the skin tone. If you’re very pale, you can leave the wipe as a face mask for 2 minutes, but if you need a subtle tan, wipe your face with pre-soaked towels and leave it on for 6-8 hours for a bronze, sunless effect.
Remember to wash your palms with micellar water after the tanning process.
Bronzer
Hydrate your dry skin and use products that give a natural glow.
Choose a bronzer product that has a warm undertone.
Grab an angular brush and dip the brush in the product.
Tap off the excess and apply the bronzer upward to define your features.
For a sun-kissed subtle glow, apply it in a “W,” covering your nose and cheeks.
Mousse, Cream or Lotion
To use self-tanning lotions, creams, or mousse, start by warming up the product using your bare hands.
Work with two to three pumps at a time, applying the product from your legs to your upper body.
Avoid streaks by scrubbing the product into your skin and leaving it for at least 13-15 hours, as mousse and creams take time to build.
Tanning Drops
Mix your face tanning drops in your moisturizer or night cream and let the color develop overnight.
Make sure you’re using two drops to avoid dark, unnatural tan.
You can use the application mitt to cover your body evenly.
The Best At Home Tanning Product
Personally, I love St. Tropez Tanning Mousse, Tan Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tanning Drops, and the Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops the most for self-tanning at home. They are easy to use, effective, budget-friendly, and, most importantly, don’t cause irritation.
One bottle of these products lasts a long time, so it’s definitely a mindful investment. I’ve also read recommendations about the Loving Tan Express Self Tanning Mousse and Jergens Natural Glow Sunless Tanning Lotion, but I haven’t tried them yet.
How Long Does A Spray Tan Last?
Skin type, tanning product, and aftercare determine the length of your tan. Typically, it takes 5-7 days for a spray tan to fade.
Avoid long showers, swimming in chlorinated water, and using harsh soaps to make your tan last long.
How To Fix Patchy Tan
Start by gently exfoliating your skin. Use a scrub or a chemical exfoliant to remove dead skin cells.
Blend the areas where the tan is uneven using a mitt or a sponge.
If the patchiness is severe, consider using a tan remover. Follow the product instructions and be gentle on your skin.
5 Fake Tan Tips To Achieve Perfect Self Tan
Check out this section for pro tips to create the perfect bronzed glow!
I’d suggest avoiding spray tans for first-timers as they can get patchy faster.
Don’t overdo the blending process, as it can fade your tan.
Tan towelettes are colorless; thus, you may end up applying more product than required.
Work in smaller sections to get the most even self-tan, especially on feet and ankles.
Tan at night time to avoid sweat and streaky patches.