Expert Tips for a Flawless Natural Self Tan at Home

Achieving a flawless natural self tan at home can be a game-changer for your beauty routine, giving you a radiant glow without the risks associated with sun exposure. With the right approach, you can achieve salon-quality results from the comfort of your own bathroom. Here, we provide comprehensive, expert tips to help you master the art of self-tanning.

Preparing Your Skin for a Perfect Natural Self Tan

Exfoliate Thoroughly

Before you apply any tanning product, it's crucial to exfoliate your skin. This step removes dead skin cells, ensuring an even application and preventing patchiness. Use a gentle scrub or an exfoliating glove, paying extra attention to rough areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.

 Moisturise Dry Areas

Dry skin can absorb more tanner, leading to darker patches. Apply a light moisturiser to dry areas, such as your elbows, knees, and ankles, to create a barrier that helps the tan apply evenly.

 

 Hair Removal

For the best results, shave or wax at least 24 hours before tanning. This allows your skin to recover and prevents the tanner from settling into open pores, which can create a dotted appearance.

Choosing the Right Natural Self Tanning Product

 

 Types of Self Tanners

Self-tanning products come in various forms, including lotions, mousses, sprays, and drops. Choose a product that matches your skin type and tanning goals. For beginners, lotions and mousses are often the easiest to apply.

 

 Consider Your Skin Tone

Select a tanning product designed for your natural skin tone. Many brands offer different shades, from light to dark, ensuring a natural look. Using a product too dark for your skin can result in an unnatural, orange hue.

Check the Ingredients

Opt for self-tanners with natural ingredients and avoid those with harsh chemicals. Look for products containing hydrating components like aloe vera and hyaluronic acid to keep your skin moisturised.

Applying Self Tanner Like a Pro

Use a Tanning Mitt

A tanning mitt helps distribute the product evenly and protects your hands from staining. Pump or squeeze the tanner onto the mitt and apply it in long, sweeping motions, blending thoroughly.

 

 Work in Sections

Apply the tanner in small sections, such as your arms, legs, and torso. This approach ensures you don't miss any spots and can blend each section properly before moving on to the next.

Blend Thoroughly

Pay special attention to blending the product around tricky areas like your hands, feet, wrists, and ankles. Use whatever residue is left on the mitt to lightly cover these areas, avoiding excess product.

Face Application

For your face, use a self-tanning mist and apply sparingly and blend into your hairline and down your neck for a seamless finish.

 

Post-Application Care

Let It Dry

After application, allow the tanner to dry completely before dressing. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes, but it can vary depending on the product. Avoid tight clothing that might rub off the tanner.

Avoid Water and Sweating

For the first 6-8 hours after applying the self-tanner, avoid water and activities that cause sweating. This time allows the tan to develop fully without streaks or uneven patches.

Hydrate Your Skin

To prolong your tan, keep your skin well-hydrated. Use a moisturiser daily to prevent your skin from drying out and causing the tan to fade unevenly.

 

 Touch Up As Needed

To maintain your tan, consider applying a gradual tanner or a top-up product every few days. These products help keep your tan looking fresh and natural between full applications.

 

Common Self Tanning Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Over-Application

Applying too much tanner at once can lead to an unnatural look. Start with a thin layer and build up if needed. It's easier to add more tanner than to remove excess.

Ignoring Your Hands and Feet

These areas can be tricky but are crucial for a natural look. Use a lighter amount of tanner and blend carefully. You can also use a makeup brush for more precise application around fingers and toes.

Skipping Exfoliation

Failing to exfoliate can result in a patchy tan. Make exfoliation a non-negotiable step in your self-tanning routine to ensure smooth, even results.

Not Using a Mitt

A mitt not only helps with even application but also protects your palms from staining. If you don't have a mitt, use a plastic glove or a sock in a pinch.

Maintaining Your Tan

Avoid Hot Baths and Showers

Hot water can strip away your tan faster. Opt for lukewarm showers and avoid long baths to prolong your tan's life.

Pat Dry Instead of Rubbing

After showering, pat your skin dry with a towel rather than rubbing it. Rubbing can exfoliate the skin and remove your tan prematurely. 

Final Thoughts

Achieving a flawless natural self tan at home requires a bit of preparation and the right techniques, but the results are well worth the effort. By following these expert tips, you can enjoy a beautiful, streak-free tan that looks like you just stepped off the beach.

Why Choose Natural Mum?

Elisia Florio is the proud creator of Natural Mum, which launched in December 2020. Natural Mum was created to help mums to nourish and take care of themselves, their family and home with beautiful natural and organic products and rituals. With more than 25 years of experience in the natural and organic industry Elisia’s knowledge is now here to help mums live a more natural and holistic life for themselves and their family. You can read more about Elisia’s journey here. 

Welcome to Natural Mum where you're invited to take care of yourself and your family with products that nurture your soul and the earth.