Gradual self-tanning formulas. These come in the form of creams, gels, sprays or foams. Gradual self-tanning formulas usually contain either dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and Erythrulose, both of which work by reacting with the amino acids on the skin surface to create a darker complexion. One application will darken the skin by just a shade or so, but you can keep applying the product over the course of several days to achieve the color you want. Instant tanning formulas. Most instant tanners are sprays that you can apply immediately for a sun-kissed look. Some stay in place for about a week, while others can be washed away at the end of the day. Instant formulas are trickier to apply than gradual formulas, since they stain the skin right away and might leave streaks. Face tanning formulas. Look for a self-tanner designed for use on the face if yours is on the sensitive or oily side. While most self-tanners work on the body and the face equally well, you’ll want to get one specifically for the face if your skin is a little finicky. Pick the right color. If you have fair skin, choose a light to medium color. If you have olive skin, choose a dark formula. You can always reapply the self-tanner to deepen your tan if your first application looks too light.
If you have fine hair on your legs or arms, there’s no need to remove it before tanning unless you want to. Guys might also want to shave or wax the chest or back before applying self tanner.
Focus on rough spots like your elbows and knees. [5] X Expert Source Barbie RitzmanBeauty & Skincare Specialist Expert Interview. 23 August 2021. The self-tanner tends to darken these areas more than other parts of your body, since it soaks in faster. Rough skin will cause the application to look even more uneven. Moisturize the skin after exfoliating, particularly if your skin is dry. Pay attention to areas like the knees and elbows where tan can build up. Use lotion or oil to trap the moisture in your skin after your shower. Allow it to fully absorb into your skin over an hour or so before you apply the self-tanner. Try to exfoliate at least 8 hours before applying the tanner. This gives your skin’s pH time to neutralize, which will help the color develop. [6] X Expert Source Barbie RitzmanBeauty & Skincare Specialist Expert Interview. 23 August 2021.
Make sure you aren’t wearing any makeup, lotion, deodorant, old tanner, or any other products that could get in the way of your new tan. [8] X Expert Source Barbie RitzmanBeauty & Skincare Specialist Expert Interview. 23 August 2021.
You may also want to protect your bathroom surfaces by putting down an old sheet or a plastic tarp and applying the self-tanner while standing on it. Keep nice towels and other items out of the way. Self-tanner is known for creating tough stains.
If you’re using a spray tanner, follow the directions regarding how far you should hold the can from your body and how long you should spray any given area. Holding it too close or spraying too long could result in an uneven tan. Around your feet, spread the tanner from your legs onto your ankles and the tops of your feet, and use as little as possible in this area. Don’t apply any to your toes, heels, or the sides of your feet, since these areas don’t tan much naturally. It may be a good idea to use a makeup brush for this step, so you can really blend it in well. If you’re applying it to your back, use a strap or a band for even application. Better yet, ask a friend to help you out. If you aren’t wearing gloves, use a timer and make sure you wash your hands every five minutes, scrubbing under and around the nails. While most people don’t have tanned underarms, avoiding that area can be difficult, so it’s better to apply self tanner there and lightly wipe with a damp washcloth about five minutes later.
Apply a very small amount of regular lotion to the tops of your feet (if you are using gloves, rinse them in water and dry them to ensure no additional tan will mix in with the moisturiser, or wash hands afterwards) and blend it with the tanner that you’ve already applied around your ankles. Apply a small amount of regular lotion around your knees, especially just below the knee. Do the same thing to your elbows, especially the part that puckers when your arm is straight. Use plenty of lotion on your hands, and blend it into your wrists.
You might want to apply some petroleum jelly to your eyebrows before you begin, that way the tanning lotion won’t collect there and darken the area too much. [13] X Research source Be careful not to get too much tanning lotion on your upper lip, as this spot absorbs more lotion than other areas on the face. Don’t forget to apply it behind your ears and the back of your neck, especially if you have short hair.
Try to wait 8 hours before showering or bathing again. Avoid exfoliating or using retinol on your skin for several days. Wait at least 8 hours before deciding to apply more tanner. [15] X Expert Source Barbie RitzmanBeauty & Skincare Specialist Expert Interview. 23 August 2021. It takes awhile to work, and if you act too soon you might end up too tan! If you feel sticky, you can apply baby powder with a large body powder puff 30–60 minutes after applying the lotion. Don’t rub it in, though, or it could affect the finish of your tan.
Be extra careful not to use too much tanner this second time around. If you accidentally spread too much on your skin, wipe it off with a tissue right away.
Scrub the spot in the shower. Use a scrub brush or a washcloth to firmly scrub the spot in question. The tanner should fade a little in that spot. Use lemon juice. Dip a tissue in lemon juice and dab it on the affected area. Let it dry completely and sit for about 20 minutes, then wash it off.
