Weekend getaways are the perfect excuse to get the tan you’ve longed for. But can you DIY at home? Yes, you can! Follow my guide and get the best recommendations and tips on how to spray tan at home.
How To Spray Tan Yourself For Beginners
If you’re a beauty and lifestyle enthusiast, you must know spray tanning is a lengthy process. So make sure you’re patient enough with prep and don’t come out of the room looking half-roasted. Start the preparation by:
Exfoliate Your Skin
I always exfoliate thoroughly using body washes and scrubs at least 3 to 5 days before the tan session. This basically removes dead skin cells and gives a moisturized base for the tan process. I recommend using a dry brush as well to absorb the product better.
If You Plan to Wax, Do It 24 Hours Before
Shaving, waxing, or any other hair removal process should be done before 24 hours. If you’re using a razor or epilator, make sure you do it carefully to avoid any razor bumps and cuts.
Choose The Right Tanning Solution
For a natural sunless tanning look, I use tanning drops, sprays, and airbrush tanning mist to get an even look. These are easier to manage at home, especially spray tans, and they save you from the expensive salon bill.
My advice is to purchase tanning guns or DIY spray at home.
Avoid Deodorants & Perfumes
The biggest issue with color tending to fade is perfumes and deodorants containing reactive ingredients. This layering hinders the tan color from fully transferring to the skin and just affects the surface. Your underarms might turn super green if the deodorant is not cleaned properly.
Find a Spray Tanning Room
When opting for spray-on method, make sure you have enough space at home without staining the bathroom or walls. Avoid rooms with dark lighting and no mirrors.
Apply The Spray-On Solution as Evenly as Possible
To start the actual self-tanning process, apply a thin layer of moisturizer and allow it to absorb into the skin. Wear your applicator mitt or glove and hold the spray gun at least 8 inches from your skin. Press a little bit and let the solution come out.
Keep moving the spray gun from lower to upper body, and don’t hold it in one area for too long. Once enough solution is out, blend in circular motions for even color distribution. Don’t forget the back of your ears, underarms, and underlegs.
Get help for hard-to-reach parts at the back and cover your whole body.
Apply The Tanner To Your Face & Hands Last
Note that knees, elbows, feet, and hands should receive less self tanning solution as they absorb faster. Once the body is done, remove your gloves and spray your hands.
For the face, lightly spray the solution and blend with the hairline and neck. Whatever product is left in your hands, gently massage it on your knees, elbows, and feet.
Don’t Get Dressed Immediately After Applying Tan
The biggest mistake in at-home tanning is not letting the color develop. Please, for God’s sake, take my word and let the tan to develop for 8 hours or more.
Rinse Off In Cold Shower
Rinse off the product in a cold shower for around 10 to 15 minutes and pat dry with a gentle towel. Moisturize the body and enjoy the glow.
If your face lacks some tan, you can use makeup products such as bronzer or contour to get that chiseled look.
7 Quick Pro Tips For Beginners
After many tests and trials over the last 10 years, I have finally cracked the tan game. Here are some things I have observed and recommend:
Choose a shade 2 or 3 shades darker than your natural skin tone( pink or yellow undertone).
I recommend tanning at night to avoid streaking and sweating.
Tie your hair in a secured bun for comfortable application.
Buying your own products is more accessible than going to a professional tanning salon.
Hydration is the key to getting the perfect fake tan.
Don’t work out, get wet, or sweat for 10 hours max.
Invest in a 360 mirror that provides a clear view of your back.
Wrapping Up
Can’t wait to see you get that perfect bronzed look and thank your lucky stars (and me, of course). Just remember to prepare before the tanning session and let the tan develop to get the best results.