How To Apply Fake Tan Without A Mitt? | Discover Best Alternatives

Photo of author
Written By Oliver James

I'm Oliver James, a writer focused on tanning and skincare, sharing tips for a safe, healthy glow.

I always use tanning mitts when I apply self-tanner. But when I am short of tanning mitts, I come up with some good ideas for self-tanning. In fact, I have discovered some useful items that I can use as tanning mitts.

I am happy to share my knowledge with you. It is also my recommendation that you follow my instructions about using them. Since, they are not made for this specific purpose, things might get out of hand.

What Can You Use Instead of a Mitt?

You’ll be amazed at the results you might get using different items in a pinch of time.

Rubber Gloves

Yes, rubber gloves—the ones you use in your kitchen. Don’t get surprised. I highly recommend using them. They are an incredible alternative, worth trying, as they even look like a tanning mitt.

How To Use

Rubber gloves makes it easy to spread the fake tan evenly and quickly. Pour some self-tanner onto the rubber gloves. Start the application with circular movements.

With rubber gloves, you can easily access the exposed parts of your body, including elbows, knees, and ankles. A rubber glove doesn’t absorb the tanning solution.

After I am done, I rinse off the gloves and put it in a cool and dry place to use it again.

Socks

When I was about to throw my old socks away, I remembered these socks came handy in my most difficult times—the times when I didn’t have a tanning mitt. Sounds odd, right? Well, I have explained everything for your convenience.

First, I make sure that the sock is clean and has a plush texture. The soft fabric is excellent for applying tanning lotion or mousse because it help spread it smoothly.

Preparing Your Sock

After cleaning is done, I turn the sock inside out and stretch it over my hand. This gives me better control and allows me to reach all my skin.

The application method is almost the same as above. Take some lotion out of the sock and gently start applying it to your body in a circular pattern.

Aftercare For Your Sock

It’s your call to either throw the sock away after one use or keep it for the future. I check the condition of the sock. If I decide to keep it, I wash the sock as soon as possible and make it completely dry before I use it again.

Cling Wrap

cling Wrap for fake tanning instead of using mitt

You must be thinking right now that every kitchen item can be used as an alternative to tanning mitts. I promise it’s the last one. 

Cling wraps are used similarly to gloves. You wrap it around your hand so that no area is left uncovered. Once, some of my hands were left uncovered, the tanning cream residue made them darker. It was very difficult to remove.

How To Use

Wash and dry your hands thoroughly. Then, take a length of cling wrap and smooth it over your hand. If the cling wrap has wrinkles, you will get unwanted streaks that don’t look good on your beautiful skin.

After you’ve achieved the desired tan, carefully remove the cling wrap from your hand and dispose of it responsibly. 

If you want to avoid getting your hands tanned more than your whole body, then wash your hands immediately. It also helps in removing tan residue. This step ensures your palms remain clean and natural and your tan looks professional.

Contour Blending Brush

Another appropriate option for applying fake tan to your body is using a Contour blending brush. Usage is easy: Pour some tanner onto the brush and start applying it evenly to your body.

Bare Hands

Woman tanning with bare hands

When I am short of every option, I simply look at my two hands as a final resort. The only problem is when I apply it with my bare hands, my hands are left with a dark shade of tan. 

To avoid getting self-tanner effects, exfoliate your hands completely. This will remove dead skin cells before you use the product.

General Advice For A Perfect Tan Without Mitts

When you try to get a bronze look without mitts, you’ll find it challenging to do it with every item. The key is to following proper guidelines and getting the best sunless tan glow.. 

Remember, a tanning mitt is the best way to apply tan. It prevents uneven tan spreading and helps you apply it to places you can’t reach.

Leave a Comment