Best Self-Tanning Tips for a Natural-Looking Glow in Florida
Tan from Dolce Glow
Let’s talk self-tanner! For those with fair skin, achieving a natural tan can be difficult. Sun exposure and tanning beds can cause damage, making self-tanner a safe option for adding color.
With so many self-tanners on the market, it can be hard to find the right one and get a routine down that works. Here is a complete self-tanning guide, from prepping the skin to maintaining a lasting, sun-kissed glow. Follow this routine for a beautiful tan!
PREPPING
It’s important to prep your skin a day or two before tanning to make sure that everything looks even and applies well.
Start by shaving or waxing about 24 hours beforehand to avoid any patchiness.
In the days leading up to your tan, keep your skin moisturized. Hydrated skin will not only help your tan look flawless but also help with longevity.
Tanning should always be the last step in your beauty routine. Schedule any spa appointments like facials, manicures, pedicures, lash appointments, or massages the day or two before, because the oils and lotions used can act as barriers to the tan. On the day of your tan, skip makeup, lotions, oils, deodorants, and perfumes.
Shower at least four hours before your tan and do not use cream-based body washes, as they tend to leave a residue that can prevent your tan from applying evenly.
Lalicious Sugar Scrub – This scrub smells amazing and does a great job exfoliating while keeping skin soft.
Aveeno Therapeutic Shave Gel – This shave gel helps with irritation and bumps after shaving.
Venus ComfortGlide Razors – These razors leave skin super smooth and are a must-have.
eos 24H Moisture Body Lotion – A lightweight lotion that absorbs fast, keeps skin moisturized and has a light, fresh smell.
Just remember to moisturize in the days leading up to your tanning day, but avoid it the day of!
TANNING
Once prep is done, it’s time to get into the tanning process. Everyone has their own way of doing it, but this routine includes some helpful tips and tricks that can make the application a little easier and more effective.
Pre-Tan Steps
Before starting the tanning process, applying a bit of cuticle oil to fingernails and toenails can help protect them from staining. A small amount of lotion on dry areas like ankles and elbows creates a barrier, but be careful not to apply too much. Adding a little lotion to the palms of your hands also prevents the tanning product from staining them.
Applying the Tanner
Start applying the tanner just above the ankles and work your way up, using circular motions to get an even application. Use circular motions until you reach your desired color and leave the feet, hands, and face for last. Reaching the back can be challenging, but slipping a hairbrush inside the mitt can give some extra reach. If a friend or partner is able to help, even better!
Feet, Hands, & Face
After finishing the body, move on to the feet and ankles. Use a dense, cheap makeup brush and lightly dab it into the leftover tanner on the mitt. Gently apply in light circular motions until everything’s evenly covered.
For hands, follow the same method, being extra careful around knuckles and creases to get a smooth, even look.
When it comes to the face, it’s all about personal preference. Some skip it to avoid breakouts and others use it for contouring. If applying to the face, lightly use circular motions until the whole face is covered.
For application, a mitt is a go-to for easy, even coverage, although some do prefer using gloves. Any self-tanning mitt works. They’re easy to find on Amazon.
When it comes to the hands, feet, and face, a brush is best because it gives control and precision.
The Ultra Dark shade from Loving Tan is great for those looking for a deep, long-lasting tan. The 8-hour formula works well when applied before bed, allowing it to develop overnight for the best results. The scent can be a bit much for some, but it’s worth it for the results at the end.
The Loving Tan 2-Hour Express is ideal for a fast, same-day tan. For a darker color, it can stay on for up to 4-6 hours. It’s perfect for when you’re short on time but still want a flawless glow the same day.
The Deluxe Face Tan gives a more natural look compared to body tanners. It works well as a quick pick-me-up for some added color, and it can be used to contour a bit. It’s a great way to bring some life back to my face without looking overdone.
This Dolce Glow Self-Tanning Mist is a game-changer in the self-tanning field! The color is gorgeous, and the fine mist helps it go on evenly. It’s great for refreshing spots like the face and hands, and it fades out naturally without looking patchy.
Bondi Sands is another great option with a cooler undertone. You can mix it with the warmer tones of Loving Tan to create a more natural color. It has a 1-hour express formula, making it perfect for when you need a quick tan.
It’s also a little bit more affordable compared to other tanners out there.
Coco & Eve also has a cooler undertone which is nice. The fact that it doesn’t have much of a scent is a huge plus and it fades evenly.
AFTERCARE
After tanning, it’s important to wear loose, dark clothing. This helps prevent the tan from getting smudged or leaving indentations on the skin.
One helpful tip for after tanning is to dust a bit of powder on places that can crease, like around the elbows, knees, neck, and underarms.
Any powder will work, but the Glow By Erin powders are great. They offer a variety of options, including tropical scents and both shimmer and matte versions.
When it’s time to rinse off, shower for about 2-3 minutes without using any soap. The water will run brown at first, but this is just the bronzer washing off. Rinse until the water runs clear.
To keep your tan looking fresh and lasting longer, hydration is very important. Moisturize daily to prevent dryness, patchiness, or flaking, and to keep your skin soft and glowing. Look for moisturizers that do not contain oils and alcohol because they can cause your tan to fade faster.
Now your sun-kissed skin is prepped and ready for the Florida sun!
REMOVAL
When a tan starts fading and looks patchy, the Rose & Caramel Self-Tan Remover is a lifesaver. Just put it on the areas that are fading, wait about 60 seconds, then rinse off in the shower or bath. Use an exfoliating mitt to gently scrub off the old tan, leaving skin soft, smooth, and ready for the next tanning application!
