How to Apply Self Tanner and Get Great Results

If you’re like me, you’ve probably had an experience with self-tanners in the past that prevented you from giving them a second chance. Well, it’s time to forgive and forget. Today’s self-tanning products have come a long way. With the right products and techniques, you can achieve a healthy, natural-looking tan without the damaging effects of the sun.

Step 1: CHOOSE YOUR PRODUCT CAREFULLY.

Today, we have so many choices in self-tanning products, including lotions, gels, mousses, and sprays. I’ve tried them all and had positive results, so this is a matter of personal preference. For those who are terrified of not having a uniform look, try a spray product like Clinique Self Sun Body Airbrush Spray. It is easy to apply evenly and does not have a strong odor like other products. Your drugstore also carries good spray products, including Neutrogena MicroMist Tanning Sunless Spray, which is nearly 100% alcohol-free and even sprays upside down. I have also had great results using L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Luminous Bronzer.

Step 2: PREPARE YOUR SKIN.

To ensure an even, natural-looking tan, apply self-tanners to clean, exfoliated, and moisturized skin. Dry patches on the skin, especially in areas like the knees and elbows, will absorb more product than a moistened area. People get dark spots when they self-tan because their skin isn’t evenly moisturized and the product penetrates some areas more than others. Before you self-tan, use an exfoliator like The Body Shop’s Coconut Body Scrub or my favorite, Rainbow Souffle Skin Refiner.

Step 3: APPLY.

When applying sunless tanners, work from the bottom up, starting with the legs and feet and working your way up the body. Work with small areas at a time, for example, do one leg and one foot before starting on the other. Remember that the idea is to apply the product evenly. If you’re concerned about getting even results, you can mix equal parts of your chosen tanning product and a regular body lotion to thin out the tanning product a bit. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t remove it once you’ve applied. So, start small when trying a new product until you see its effect on your skin. Use sparingly around feet, ankles, elbows and wrists, applying lightly to tops of hands and feet only for a natural look. Wash palms, between fingers, and around fingernails with soap and water when finished applying to prevent tanned palms. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, especially as to how long you should wait before putting on or touching the fabric to avoid staining.

Step 4: MAINTAIN YOUR SHINE.

Again, follow the directions for your tanning product, but you’ll generally need to reapply your product every 1-4 days to maintain your tan. Keeping your skin moisturized will help your tan last longer and look healthier. Consider using a dry oil spray after you shower to lock in moisture and enhance the glow of your tan. My absolute favorite is Strawberry Champagne Body Dew. It smells amazing, gives your tan a red carpet glow, and leaves your skin feeling hydrated—but never greasy—all day long.

Follow these simple steps and you’ll get a beautiful, natural-looking tan without the damaging effects and wrinkles of sun exposure.