Tips to Help You Apply Self-Tanning Lotion


April 25, 2025
Get a gorgeous tan without the sun
Self-tanning lotions allow you to achieve that bronzed look without laying out in the sun or going to tanning salons. You get the beautiful tan shade without the risk of damage to your skin. If you’ve been hesitant in the past about using self-tanners because of the way they look, you can change your impression by learning the secret tips and tricks to help you apply them correctly.

Know Your Product

First, you should read about the various tanning products available. They aren’t all the same, and you want to make sure you buy the product that works for you. Some items enhance your tan while others actual help your tan develop.

Self-tanners change the color of your skin by dyeing it. Often, these products require multiple uses before you get the shade you want because the change is gradual. You must also keep it up with reapplication or else it will fade until you are back to your original skin tone.

These products come in lotions, sprays, gels and mousses. Decide which method you prefer, but be willing to experiment. You may decide you like a spray for your face and neck and a lotion for your body.

Prepare Your Skin

Shave or wax at least one day before applying the self-tanner to get the best results. If you do it the same day, your skin will be more irritated. You’ll also want to exfoliate your skin a day or two before to remove dead skin. This helps ensure your tan looks natural and lasts longer.

Don’t forget to moisturize your skin before applying the tanning product. It’s important to do this on a regular basis. Dry skin doesn’t look as natural with a tanning product as smooth, hydrated skin. In fact, you are more likely to see pockets of the tanner where the dry skin folds and wrinkles.

Apply Carefully

Start with a thin layer, whether you’re using a lotion, gel, mousse or spray. When using any application other than the spray, you’ll work it in with your hands. Wear gloves to keep your hand from getting dark with the tanner. Work it in a circular motion to avoid long streaks of color.

Make sure you work the product in behind your ears and around your neckline on your face. Be just as careful with the rest of your body to ensure you don’t miss any spots. Depending on the product, it may take hours or days before you know the full effect. It’s better to start with a light color change and build on it with multiple applications.

To ensure your tan turns out fabulous every time, follow these straightforward tips:
Make your new tan look even more amazing by using the right makeup. You’ll probably have to change your blush, eye shadow and even your lipstick to complement your new shade. You may not even have to wear foundation, but you’ll definitely need a different shade if you choose to add it to your makeup routine.

A shimmery body powder will enhance your new tan. If you don’t feel comfortable applying tanner on your face, you can also use bronzing powder to achieve a similar effect. However, it will need to be reapplied often to keep your face looking tanned and healthy.

Try New Products

Many people try out a self-tanner, decide they don’t like it and give up. Tanning products are just like makeup, shampoo and other beauty products. No single brand will fit everyone. Instead, you must be willing to try more than one to find the item that looks best on you.

You’ll also have to learn how often to apply the tanner to keep your desired tan. Some people find they need to put on a new layer almost every day while others may use it once a week just to maintain a light color. Don’t give up after one or two attempts. Give it a good try and you may fall in love with the new look these self-tanners create.