Whether you’re a self-tan newbie or a seasoned glower, achieving an even, streak-free tan comes down to good preparation, the right product, and a little know-how.
Follow our tanning guides to discover how to get a sunless tan, apply fake tan evenly and keep your glow flawless for longer.
Commandment 1: Prepare your skin properly
If you’re wondering how to get smooth skin before self-tanning, preparation is everything.
Dry patches and lingering dead skin can cause uneven color development, so get started exfoliation 24 hours before tanning. This helps create the perfect canvas for a seamless application.
For best results:
- Exfoliate the day before tanning
- Focus on elbows, knees, ankles and hands
- Complete any shaving or waxing 24 hours ago
- Avoid heavy oils immediately before tanning
The Face Smooth Nourishing Polish is ideal for preparing the skin of the face, while the Body Smooth Refreshing Polish helps eliminate dullness from head to toe.
Commandment 2: Moisturize wisely
One of the most common tanning questions is: you need to moisturize before fake tan?
The answer is yes – but only where you need it most.
Lightly moisturizing dry areas before application can help prevent excessive color development on elbows, knees, heels and hands. Body Love Firming Buttercream is ideal for smoothing these areas and encouraging a more even finish.
Commandment 3: Always use a tanning mitt
If you’re looking for the best way to apply fake tan, don’t skip the gauntlet.
Applying tanning products with a tanning mitt helps distribute the color evenly while preventing smudging on the palms. Apply the product to the glove first, then blend into the skin in circular motions for the most seamless finish.
Commandment 4: From the feet up
Applying your tan from your feet up helps prevent accidental transfer to freshly tanned areas and gives you more control over your application.
Pay particular attention to ankles, knees, elbows and wrists, blending well for a natural finish. A full-coverage Kabuki brush helps effortlessly buff and blend product into these areas for a beautiful seamless glow.
Commandment 5: Use a special facial tanner
Your face deserves a customized approach.
For an effortless facial tan, Sun Spritz Facial Tanning Mist delivers malleable color in an ultra-fine mist that fits seamlessly into your skincare routine.
Prefer a more personalized deeper glow? Sun Drops Gradual Tanning Facial can be mixed with Skin Feast Nourishing Moisturiser, allowing you to customize your color drop by drop.
Not sure which facial tanner is right for you? Explore our facial tanning guide.
Step 6: Choose the right tan for your glow goals
The best self-tan is the one that fits your routine and desired finish.
For a gradual glow
Sun Spritz Facial Tanning Mist: Creates a soft, natural-looking, healthy-looking bronze.
Summer Skin Gradual Tanning Serum: Builds a believable bronze over time and helps maintain smooth, hydrated skin.
For deeper color
Sun Drops Gradual Tanning Face Serum: It offers a richer, streak-free tan that can be adjusted to the desired depth of color.
Sun Drench Overnight Tanning Mousse: Develops a deep color that lasts overnight that stays bright for up to a week.
For instant shine
Instant Glow Perfecting Leg Serum: Provides instant warmth and brightness that washes off with your next shower.
Looking for a deeper dive into the tanning collection? Explore our guide to find the right tanning product for your desired glow.
Commandment 7: Know when your tan has developed
How long does it take for a tan to develop?
Most self-tanning products begin to develop within a few hours, with full color appearing overnight.
If using Sun Drench Overnight Tanning Mousse, the guide color provides instant color upon application to ensure even coverage. This guide color washes off when you shower the next morning, revealing the developed tan underneath.
Commandment 8: Keep your glow
Want to know how to make your fake tan last longer?
Here are our top tanning tips to keep your glow on:
- Moisturize daily
- Avoid harsh exfoliants
- Dry the skin after showering
Whipped Body Velvet and Skin Feast Nourishing Moisturizer are ideal for keeping skin hydrated and prolonging your tan.
domandate 9: Elift up Yus Ta
A great tan creates the perfect base to enhance your natural features.
For added definition, sweep Jet Set Bronzer along the cheekbones, temples and jawline to create a soft, sun-kissed contour. The buildable powder formula adds warmth and dimension while complementing your glow.
Want to summon the glow? Sun Glaze Illuminating Bronzing Drops can be applied to the high points of the face, including cheekbones and bridge of the nosefor a shiny finish. You can also mix in a few drops beyond the cleavage, shouldersand keys to enhance your tan and create a healthy glow.
Whether you prefer subtle warmth or a full-on glow, these glow-enhancing binders help take your tan to the next level.
Commandment 10: Keep your glow
As your tan begins to fade, gentle exfoliation can help remove any remaining color and create an even base for your next application. Use the Exfoliating Mitt or Body Smooth Refreshing Polish to soften old tan and encourage more even fading.
To maintain your glow at its best, apply gradual tan products regularly to maintain the desired depth of color or top up the deeper tan every few days as needed.
Whether you’re planning ahead or need a last-minute glow, there’s a tanning solution to suit every occasion.
For tomorrow: Overnight tanning mousse
For gradual color throughout the week: Summer Skin Gradual Tanning Serum
For an instant glow: Instant Glow Perfecting Leg Serum
If you are tanning for a special occasion, apply your tan one or two days before to give the color time to fully develop and settle for the most natural result.
Whatever your tanning style, the secret to a beautiful glow is healthy, hydrated skin and choosing the right product for your routine.
FAQs
How do I prepare my skin before tanning?
For more even results, exfoliate 24 hours before tanning and lightly moisturize any dry areas such as elbows, knees, ankles and hands.
Should I moisturize before fake tan?
Yes. Applying a light layer of moisturizer to dry areas can help prevent the tan from developing unevenly and create a more seamless finish.
Which facial tanner is right for me?
Sun Spritz Facial Tanning Mist is ideal for light, pigmented color, while Sun Drops Gradual Tanning Facial Serum offers a more tailored approach, allowing you to adjust your glow drop by drop.
How can I avoid fake tan?
Exfoliating beforehand, wearing tanning gloves and applying the product in circular motions can help ensure a more even finish.
How long does it take for self-tan to develop?
Most self-tan formulas begin to develop within a few hours, with full color appearing overnight. Gradual tanning products deliver color more subtly with repeated applications.
How long does Sun Drench Overnight Tanning Mousse last?
Sun Drench Overnight Tanning Mousse can last up to a week, depending on your skin type, skin care routine and how well the skin is moisturized and hydrated.
What is a color guide?
Sun Drench Overnight Tanning Mousse contains a guide color that provides instant color upon application, helping you see exactly where you applied the product for a more even finish. The guide color washes off when you shower the next morning, revealing the developed tan underneath.
Can I use sunscreen drops on my body?
While it can be used on the body, we have carefully developed a range of body self tanners enriched with tanning technology and nutrients to help you achieve the results you want.
Does Instant Glow wash off?
Yes. Instant Glow Perfecting Leg Serum is a rinse-off formula that delivers an instant glow that lasts until your next shower.
How can I make my tan last longer?
Avoiding harsh exfoliants and daily moisturizing can help maintain an even glow for longer.
