Ever look in the mirror and wish for a sun-kissed glow without the sun’s harmful rays? You’re not alone! Many of us dream of that healthy, bronzed look that makes us feel confident and vibrant. But when it comes to fake tan, figuring out the best way to get that perfect color can be tricky.
There are so many different kinds of fake tan out there – lotions, sprays, mousses, and even tanning wipes! It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You might worry about getting streaks, an orange hue, or a tan that just doesn’t last. We want that natural-looking glow, not a patchy mess!
That’s where this guide comes in. We’re going to break down the different ways to apply fake tan, making it super simple to understand. You’ll learn what works best for your skin type and what steps to take for a flawless finish every time. Get ready to say goodbye to tanning troubles and hello to your best bronze yet!
Top Way To Apply Fake Tan Recommendations
- DARKEST POSSIBLE RESULTS. i'm perfect for when dark just isn't dark enough
- EASY TANNING. no gimmicks, no fake tan smell just the most awesome, dark tan on the planet
- 1 HOUR CURE TIME. 1 hour development time, leave on for 4+ hours for darker results
- PRO TIP: apply a moisturizer to elbows, knees + ankles before application. apply evenly (but not too thick) + blend thoroughly for the perfect bronzed glow. use with a mitt for ultra smooth results.
- VEGAN FRIENDLY. i love animals so im cruelty free, vegan friendly, and free of nasties like parabens
- SMOOTH APPLICATION. helps create the smoothest, most awesome tan on the planet without the nasty tan hands
- BEST PRACTICE. slide your hand into mitt.put a small amount of b.tan self tan mousse or lotion onto the mitt. smooth all over your body in circular motions. ta-da! an awesome dark tan with no streaks. designed for lefties or righties - any hand will do!
- DOUBLE SIDED & DURABLE. did you notice it's like a mitten? your thumb has its own spot - for EASY tanning.
- WASHABLE & REUSABLE. we recommend hand washing your awesome tan mitt with water and leaving it to dry before first application. also can be machine washable
- PROTECTS FROM STAINING. no more nasty tan hands
- SELF TANNER BODY LOTION - Create a flawless deep bronze tan with gradual, natural-looking color while nourishing and hydrating dry and extra dry skin
- GRADUAL SUNLESS TANNING - Our Jergens Natural Glow +FIRMING moisturizer will gradually enhance and deepen your natural skin tone to provide hassle-free, streak-free color
- FIRMING TAN LOTION - Infused with antioxidants and Coconut Water, Jergens +FIRMING Moisturizer’s hydrating blend of nutrients boosts moisturization for healthier looking skin and daily skin hydration
- CELLULITE REMOVER - Infused with collagen, elastin, and green tea infusions, our fast-acting, anti-cellulite formula will help reduce cellulite appearance within 7 days
- FRESH SCENTED SUNLESS TANNING - Jergens Natural Glow sunless tanning daily moisturizers will keep you feeling fresh with a light and fresh scent
- LONG LASTING RESULTS. ill make you b.tan forever & ever (well up to 11 days anyways)
- EASY TANNING. scrap your weekly tanning routine and b.tanned longer than ever before
- 1 HOUR CURE TIME. 1 hour development time, leave on for 4+ hours for darker results
- PRO TIP: apply a moisturizer to elbows, knees + ankles before application. apply evenly (but not too thick) + blend thoroughly for the perfect bronzed glow. use with a mitt for ultra smooth results.
- VEGAN FRIENDLY. i love animals so im cruelty free, vegan friendly, and free of nasties like parabens
- PERFECT AND EFFECTIVE LOTION BACK APPLICATOR- The MOSSOM back lotion applicator is perfect for applying lotions, creams and fake tan to your entire Back. The suncreen applicator is easy to reach your entire back. It is a much simpler and more efficient way that you can easily apply self tanning lotion, gels, mousses, creams, or even medications to your back evenly. (Not good for liquid tanner).
- PERFECTLY HOLDS LOTIONS AND NON-ABSORBENT BAND- The back applicator perfectly holds lotions much better than non-absorbent applicators. The lotions will not drip or run on the applicator. Our applicator absorbs very little because of its special non-absorbent interior construction.
- HIGH QUALITY BACK APPLICATOR- Our lotion applicators for back is made from premium Soft Velvet, which is eco-friendly. Our back buddy lotion applicator is thin and light. And the edges are stitched exquisitely, smooth, comfortable and durable.
- EASY TO WASH - When you think the tan back applicator needs cleaning, you just throw it in the washing machine and dryer with your laundry!
- EASY TO USE - The handles and length make this product both effective and easy to use. Back lotion applicators provide a more convenient way for everyone, especially for the elderly, the injured, the resilient, and the people with joint problems, pregnant women and those who find it easier to use lotion.
- SMOOTH APPLICATION. helps create the smoothest, most awesome tan on the planet without the nasty tan hands
- BEST PRACTICE. slide your hand into mitt.put a small amount of b.tan self tan mousse or lotion onto the mitt. smooth all over your body in circular motions. ta-da! an awesome dark tan with no streaks. designed for lefties or righties - any hand will do!
- DOUBLE SIDED & DURABLE. did you notice it's like a mitten? your thumb has its own spot - for EASY tanning.
- WASHABLE & REUSABLE. we recommend hand washing your awesome tan mitt with water and leaving it to dry before first application. also can be machine washable
- PROTECTS FROM STAINING. no more nasty tan hands
- INSTANT SUNLESS TANNING - Dries in 60 seconds and develops your tone instantly, an award-winning formula that's the gold standing in DIY home tanning
- FLAWLESS SELF TANNER - Smooth on this easy-to-apply airy body tanning lotion delivers sun-kissed, natural-looking color
- NATURAL BODY BRONZER - Work with your skin tone to create personalized, flawless color that dries quickly and lasts for days. Streak free, hassle free instant self tanner
- LIGHT, FRESH SCENT - Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Mousse will keep you feeling fresh with a light and fresh scent
- CRUELTY FREE BRONZE TANNING LOTION - Fast-drying, dermatologist-tested fake tanner
- TAN REMOVER SCRUB. a body wash + scrub to erase that old tan so you can do it all again. buff away old tan and dead skin cells with gentle exfoliation & wash that stuff right down the drain. the body wash combo leaves you clean + smellin' oh so fresh. you'll be perfectly clean with your skin primed just in time for your next tan session
- STEP 1 IN YOUR TAN ROUTINE. use me as part of your regular self tanning routine and you’ll never look back
- 2-IN-1. the body wash combo leaves you feelin' + smellin' clean as can be
- BEST PRACTICE. to make your old tan go away wait at least 3 days after applying your self tan before using. apply generously & gently rub into a rich lather. makes your old tan go away, cleanses & preps your skin for the next bangin' tan.
- VEGAN FRIENDLY. i love animals so im cruelty free, vegan friendly, and free of nasties like parabens
Your Guide to a Flawless Fake Tan
Want a sun-kissed glow without the sun’s rays? Fake tan products are your answer! But with so many options, how do you pick the best one? This guide will help you choose the perfect fake tan for a beautiful, natural-looking glow.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for fake tan, keep an eye out for these important features:
- Color Depth: Do you want a light, golden glow or a deep, bronzed look? Products come in different shades. Look for descriptions like “light,” “medium,” “dark,” or “ultra-dark.”
- Application Method: Fake tans come as lotions, mousses, sprays, and wipes. Mousses are popular because they are easy to spread evenly. Lotions can be good for drier skin. Sprays are quick but can be tricky to get right. Wipes are great for touch-ups.
- Scent: Some fake tans have a strong “self-tan” smell. Others have added fragrances to make them smell nice, like coconut or vanilla. If you’re sensitive to smells, look for “odorless” or “fragrance-free” options.
- Drying Time: How quickly does the tan dry? Some formulas dry in just a few minutes, which is great if you’re in a hurry. Others might take longer.
- Ingredient List: Check the ingredients. Natural ingredients like shea butter or aloe vera can be good for your skin. Some people prefer vegan or cruelty-free options.
Important Materials
The “materials” in fake tan products are the ingredients that create the tan and care for your skin.
- DHA (Dihydroxyacetone): This is the main ingredient that makes your skin turn brown. It’s a sugar that reacts with the dead skin cells on your skin’s surface.
- Erythrulose: Sometimes used with DHA, erythrulose is another sugar that can create a deeper, longer-lasting tan.
- Moisturizers: Ingredients like glycerin, shea butter, and various oils keep your skin soft and hydrated. This helps the tan fade evenly.
- Color Guides: Many fake tans have a colored guide. This helps you see where you’re applying the product, so you don’t miss any spots. This color washes off after you shower.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a fake tan great or not so great?
-
Improves Quality:
- Even Application: A product that spreads smoothly and easily leads to a streak-free finish.
- Natural Color: The best fake tans look like you’ve been in the sun, not like you’ve painted yourself orange.
- Long-Lasting: A good tan stays on your skin for several days without fading too quickly or unevenly.
- Moisturizing Formula: Tan that also nourishes your skin feels better and looks better.
-
Reduces Quality:
- Streaking or Patchiness: This happens when the tan isn’t applied evenly.
- Orange Hue: Some formulas can turn your skin an unnatural orange color.
- Sticky or Greasy Feel: A product that leaves your skin feeling unpleasant is not ideal.
- Fading Quickly: A tan that disappears in a day or two isn’t very good value.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people use fake tan, and what’s it like?
- Everyday Glow: Many people use fake tan to get a healthy-looking glow year-round. It’s perfect for when you want to look good without makeup.
- Special Occasions: Going to a party or a wedding? Fake tan can give you a beautiful tan for that special event. It’s a great way to feel more confident.
- Before Vacation: Want to look tanned before you hit the beach? Fake tan can give you a head start.
- Application Process: Most people apply fake tan after showering and exfoliating. They use a tanning mitt to rub the product in. It’s important to let it dry completely before getting dressed. Many people sleep with the tan on and rinse it off in the morning.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fake Tan
Q: How do I prepare my skin for fake tan?
A: You should exfoliate your skin thoroughly. This removes dead skin cells so the tan can go on smoothly. Shave any unwanted hair too. Then, moisturize any dry areas like your knees and elbows. This stops them from getting too dark.
Q: How do I apply fake tan evenly?
A: Use a tanning mitt. This helps you spread the product in long, sweeping motions. Work in sections and blend well. Ask a friend to help with hard-to-reach areas like your back.
Q: What should I wear after applying fake tan?
A: Wear loose, dark clothing. Avoid tight clothes that can rub off the tan. Also, try not to get the tan wet until it has developed.
Q: How long does fake tan take to develop?
A: Most fake tans take between 4 to 8 hours to develop. Some fast-acting ones can develop in as little as 1 hour. Check the product instructions.
Q: How long does a fake tan usually last?
A: A good fake tan can last anywhere from 3 to 7 days. How long it lasts depends on the product and how you care for your skin.
Q: How do I make my fake tan last longer?
A: Moisturize your skin daily. Avoid long, hot baths or showers. Also, try to avoid swimming in chlorinated pools, as this can fade the tan faster.
Q: What if I get streaks?
A: Don’t worry! You can often fix streaks with a bit of lemon juice and water, or a special tan remover product. Sometimes, just a good scrub in the shower helps.
Q: Can I use fake tan on my face?
A: Yes, but use a product specifically designed for the face. Facial skin is more sensitive. Some facial tanning waters or drops can be mixed with your regular moisturizer.
Q: Does fake tan stain clothes?
A: The color guide in fake tan can stain clothes. Wear dark, loose clothing after application. Most stains wash out, but it’s best to be careful.
Q: What’s the difference between fake tan mousse and lotion?
A: Mousse is lighter and dries faster, making it easy to spread. Lotions are often more moisturizing and can be better for dry skin. Both can give a great tan if applied correctly.