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I was 15-years-old the first time I tried to teach myself how to apply self-tanner, and it was a complete and utter disaster. I was in Italy visiting my BFF at the time, and despite all of the sunless tanning tips she gave to me through the bathroom door, I ended up with a blotchy, orange tan that looked so ridiculous I was forced to spend the remainder of the summer sporting jeans and long-sleeved tee-shirts.
I was too scared to get within 50 feet of a bottle of self-tanner after that horrible experience. And since I grew up at a time when the devastating effects of sun exposure weren’t as well documented or known, I spent more time than I like to admit baking my skin in direct sunlight as it seemed the only way I could get a natural-looking glow.
I sincerely regret all of the days I wore next-to-nothing at the beach with zero sunblock on my skin throughout my youth. While I cannot change the past, the scar on my upper chest where I had my first skin cancer removed last summer reminds me daily how important it is to protect myself from the sun’s harmful rays.
For the most part, I have come to embrace and love my pasty white skin, but I’d be lying if I told you there aren’t times when I wish my face, arms, and legs had a bit more color to them.
So I asked the gals at our local tanning salon for their best sunless tanning tips, and I read and watched more tutorials on how to apply self-tanner than any sane person should. I’ve decided to finally put my fear of self-tanning behind me.
Check out my favorite tips and tutorials below to learn how to get a natural, smooth-looking tan this summer without damaging your skin with UV rays. I’ve included links to the best products and applicators, tips to avoid blotchy results, and how to remove your tan if it doesn’t turn out the way you hope.
1. Exfoliate! Exfoliate! Exfoliate!
Before applying self-tanner, exfoliate thoroughly. You can use DIY body scrubs or try the Bath & Body Works Japanese Cherry Blossom Golden Sugar Scrub. Smooth skin is essential to avoid a blotchy tan. And don’t forget to shave your legs!
2. Moisturize Your Hands and Feet
To avoid patchy areas around your hands, feet, elbows, and knees, apply moisturizer beforehand. Try the St. Tropez Tan Enhancing Body Moisturizer or The Body Shop’s Shea Body Butter.
3. Splurge on the Right Products
Don’t skimp on self-tanner. For a quality product, try St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse. It’s worth the investment for a flawless finish.
4. Learn the Right Application Techniques
Use an application mitt and a buffer brush. Many YouTubers recommend them to ensure an even, streak-free application.
5. Take Care of Your Tan
To maintain your tan, avoid exfoliating, don’t rub your skin with a towel after showering, and moisturize daily to extend the life of your sunless glow.
6. Don’t Fret: Removing Your Tan is Easy
If your tan turns out too dark, orange, or splotchy, apply coconut oil for 30 minutes, then remove it using the Bronze Buffer Self-Tan Remover in a hot shower.
Oh, how I wish this product existed when I was 15!
If you’re a visual learner, here are five YouTube tutorials that show the correct way to apply self-tanner. Each includes different tips and tricks, so watch them all for the best results.
My Sunless Tanning Routine by Jaclyn Hill
If you want to apply tanner evenly for a natural-looking glow, this tutorial is full of helpful tips.
My Fake Tanning Routine! by Lauren Curtis
Lauren confirms that the St. Tropez Self Tan Dark Bronzing Mousse smells great and fades evenly.
Top 5 Sunless Tanners by Jaclyn Hill
A great review of different sunless tanners for a variety of skin tones and needs.
Self Tanning At Home! by Cassandra Bankson (DiamondsAndHeels14)
A collection of great tips for a natural, sunless tan from the comfort of home.
The Best Makeup Secret You Ever Did Hear! by Wayne Goss
Want to avoid the dreaded orange tan? Check out this great tip from Wayne Goss!
I wish I had known these sunless tanning tips when I was younger. They would’ve saved me from an awkward summer of hiding my skin. Thankfully, I’ve now learned how to apply self-tanner properly and add color to my skin without risking my health.
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