Self-Tanning Products
As someone who loves to achieve a sun-kissed glow all year round, I have tried my fair share of self-tanning products over the years. I get lots of questions about what I use, so today I’m breaking down my top self-tanning product recommendations!
Self Tanner
FOR A DARKER TAN - During the summer months, or whenever I’m looking for a deeper, more dramatic tan, I’ve been loving the St. Tropez Self Tan Express Mousse. It has been my go-to self-tanning product for quite some time now. The formula includes a built-in bronzer, which allows you to see exactly where you've applied the product making it much easier to avoid streaks. While the initial application can appear quite dark, don’t be alarmed; once you rinse off the bronzer the next morning, the result is great. You can watch a full tutorial on how I apply it over on my Instagram here.
FOR A GRADUAL TAN - Don’t let the word “gradual” fool you, you’ll see noticeable color after just one use! I use the + Lux Unfiltered N°32 Gradual Hydrating Self Tanner in Deep Santal. It’s a lotion-based formula, so you don’t need a mitt, and it’s incredibly hydrating. Unlike many self-tanners, it has a much lighter scent and contains no bronzer, which means it won’t transfer onto clothing or sheets. I reach for this one when I want to apply self-tanner without the need to rinse off later. It also layers beautifully, making it perfect for touching up a fading tan or deepening your color gradually over time. You can watch a tutorial on this IG story highlight!
FOR A LIGHTER TAN - If you’ve been following me for a while, you know I’m a longtime fan of the Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Tanning Mouse. It’s incredibly affordable, and the color payoff is amazing! I use the shade Light Bronze, and I typically reach for this one when I want a more natural-looking tan. It’s especially great for fair or winter skin, as the color is subtle and less intense compared to more dramatic self-tanners. This formula also contains a bronzer, which helps you see where you’re applying making the process easier and more precise. I like to apply it at night and rinse off the bronzer in the morning.
FOR AN INSTANT GLOW - This is my all-time favorite luminizing body tint, the perfect product for a quick, on-the-go tan. I’ve been using the Fenty Beauty Body Sauce Body Luminizing Tint in the shade 02 Hunnie Hunnie for years. It’s my go-to whenever I need an instant glow and a hint of color on my legs or arms, especially when wearing certain outfits. The finish is smooth, radiant, and gives the skin a beautifully sun-kissed look without the commitment of self-tanner.
Applicator
MY GO-TO MITT - I’ve been using this mitt to apply my tanner for a while now and find it works great at blending the product in. I also love this mitt! For my back, I’ll use this self applicator - a total game changer if you live alone or don’t have anyone to help you get your back! I recommend using a mitt/applicator for all of the above listed self tanners except the lotion!
Exfoliate & Shave
EXFOLIATING MITT - The first and essential step to any self tanning routine is to exfoliate and shave! My current favorite exfoliating products are this body scrub which I apply 1 hour before showering and then I use this deep exfoliating body scrub mitt with body wash in the shower. I also use the Flamingo razor to shave. This step ensures that any previous self tanner is removed before applying!
*Tip for lotion - after applying tanner, add lotion to knees, elbows, ankles, and any dry areas so the tanner won’t absorb as much.
FAQs
How often do you tan? I typically tan once a week and occasionally touch up midweek if needed. Then I exfoliate completely and start fresh the following week.
Does working out affect your tanner? Not really, sometimes it can start to rub off around where my bra hits but I still apply self tanner even if I have a workout the next day.
Does your self tanner come off on your sheets? Yes, only on the first night that I apply it before showering, but I wash my sheets every week so it doesn't bother me. Both tanning mousses have bronzer in them so you can see where you're applying it which means some will rub off on sheets before you shower the bronzer off. I personally like the bronzer so it isn't a huge issue for me!
How do you tan your hands? To create a gradual fade from my wrist to my fingers, I like to apply this body lotion on the inside of my wrist to palm to fingertips and then the back of my hand from knuckle to fingertips. This helps the tanner not absorb into the hands too much! I recently started using this applicator brush for my hands and feet, and it’s made a big difference in achieving a light, even application.
How do you apply it to your back? Usually I just have Cort apply it on my back or I ignore it because typically my back is mostly covered! There is also this back applicator that helps with self application! I’ll link it here.
HOW DO YOU REMOVE your tanner? When it’s time to remove any remaining self-tanner, I use this mitt in the shower to exfoliate. Lately, I’ve been applying this scrub about an hour beforehand for an even deeper cleanse.