A natural summer tan without any UV radiation? With self-tanner, this is easily possible. Modern formulas ensure an even result without an orange tint and are easy to apply – provided that the preparation and technique are right. Here you will learn everything about the correct application of self-tan so that you don't risk any streaks, and I'll show you with practical tips how your tan will last particularly long.
How to Apply Self-Tan Correctly – a Quick Guide
- 24 hours before: Exfoliate the skin and moisturize thoroughly.
- Optional (also 12 to 24 hours before): Shave or epilate.
- Moisturize dry skin areas (such as wrists, ankles, elbows, and knees).
- Apply self-tanner evenly with a tanning mitt.
- Observe the development time and then moisturize the skin regularly.
- Rinse off self-tanner residue.
The Right Preparation
A self-tanner does not color the skin itself, but reacts with the outermost skin cells. If these are unevenly distributed, the result will be streaky. With the right preparation, you lay the foundation for an even and natural tan.
Exfoliation
A gentle body scrub removes dead skin cells and ensures that the self-tanner can be absorbed evenly.
It is ideal to exfoliate about 24 hours before application. This allows the skin to calm down and the tanning result will be more even.
Avoid aggressive exfoliants or products with fruit acids directly before application, as they can additionally irritate sensitive skin.
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Optional: Hair Removal
Shaving or epilating should also be done 12 to 24 hours beforehand if possible. Directly after hair removal, pores are often open, which can cause the self-tanner to settle in them and leave dark spots.
Moisturize
Dry areas absorb a lot of self-tanner and therefore often appear darker.
Therefore, apply a thin layer of a light moisturizer to the following areas in particular:
- Knees
- Elbows
- Ankles
- Hands
- Feet
- Wrists
Use only a small amount of cream, so that the self-tanner can still be absorbed evenly. This is because self-tanner should not be applied to wet or damp skin.
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Applying Self-Tan Step by Step
1. Use a Self-Tanning Mitt
An application mitt makes even distribution easier and prevents stained palms. Especially with mousse or lotion, it ensures a streak-free result. Start with a small amount of product and gradually increase it – if you wish, you can also apply it in two layers to intensify the result.
Bali Body – Luxe Tanning Mitt
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Bondi Sands – Self Tanning Back Applicator
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2. Work in Small Areas
Apply the self-tanner section by section – for example, one leg first, then the other. This prevents individual areas from drying out before you have completely spread the product.
3. Distribute with Circular Motions
Work the self-tanner in with gentle, circular motions. This creates fewer visible transitions and the result looks more natural.
4. Less Product on Difficult Areas
A significantly smaller amount is usually sufficient for the following areas:
- Knees
- Elbows
- Hands
- Feet
- Ankles
- Wrists
Only distribute the product residue that is still on the mitt, or use a Blending Brush for particularly gentle and natural transitions.
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5. Clean Hands Thoroughly
If you don't use a mitt or have worked on your hands, you should wash your hands thoroughly with soap immediately after application. Pay particular attention to between your fingers and around your nails.
6. Observe the Development Time
Each self-tanner has a recommended development time, which varies between 2 and 8 hours depending on the manufacturer. Adhere to the manufacturer's instructions and avoid the following during this time:
- Showering
- Sweating
- Sports
- Tight clothing
- Water contact
I have left self-tanner to develop overnight several times and only rinsed it off the next morning. However, you should note that some formulas can rub off. Alternatively, for the impatient, express formulas that develop their result in just one hour are best.
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Applying Self-Tan to the Face
Special self-tanners or self-tanning drops are particularly suitable for the face.
Please note:
- Cleanse face beforehand.
- Use less product than on the body.
- Carefully blend into the hairline and eyebrows.
- Don't forget the neck and décolleté to avoid color differences.
Many self-tanner drops can also be mixed with a moisturizer, which allows the tan to build up particularly naturally.
What Types of Self-Tan Are There?
Depending on preference, different textures are available.
Self-Tan Mousse
- easy to distribute
- dries quickly
- particularly popular for beginners and larger body areas
Bondi Sands – Self Tanning Foam
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21,76 €
Self-Tan Lotion
- simultaneously nourishes the skin
- tan often develops a bit slower
- ideal for dry skin
Bali Body – Instant Tan Cream
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12,95 €
12,95 €
Self-Tan Gel
- light skin feel
- absorbs quickly
- particularly pleasant in summer
Bali Body – Clear Self Tanning Gel
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25,90 €
25,90 €
Self-Tan Spray
- good for hard-to-reach areas
- even spraying requires some practice
Bali Body – Self Tan Body Mist
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32,90 €
32,90 €
Self-Tan Drops
- mixed with daily skincare
- intensity can be individually dosed
- particularly popular for the face
Bondi Sands – Self Tan Drops
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22,90 €
22,90 €
How Long Does Self-tan Last?
Depending on skin type and product, a self-tan usually lasts between five and seven days.
The longevity depends on, among other things:
- Skin renewal
- Frequency of showering
- Exfoliants
- Chlorine or salt water
- Moisturizing care
Those who moisturize their skin daily with a body lotion can often maintain the tan a little longer.
If you want a very quick tan, there are also special self-tanners for one day, which are completely washed off with the next shower:
The Fox Tan – One Night Only Tan Instant Wash Off
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Common Mistakes when Applying Self-Tan
Most streaks are not caused by the self-tanner itself, but by application errors.
Therefore, avoid the following mistakes:
- no exfoliation before application
- too much product at once
- not preparing dry skin areas
- not washing hands after application
- showering immediately after application
- wearing tight clothing during the development time
- applying several layers immediately one after another
Removing Self-Tan – When Something Goes Wrong
If the result is uneven, you don't have to wait until the tan has completely faded.
The following methods can help:
- gentle body scrub
- apply micellar water to a cotton pad and gently go over dark spots
- warm bath
- body oil before showering
- special self-tanner removers
- regular moisturizing to support natural skin renewal
Avoid aggressive methods or harsh rubbing, as this can irritate the skin.
If your tan is a few days old and you want to remove it completely, body exfoliants and tan removers are best for this. This way you can start the tanning process from scratch if you wish.
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Tips for a Particularly Natural Tan
With a few simple tricks, the result will look particularly even:
- Self-tanners are available in different strengths – choose a shade that matches your skin tone.
- Apply two thin layers on different days rather than one thick one.
- Use an application mitt.
- Moisturize your skin daily.
- Apply self-tanner in the evening if possible, so it can develop undisturbed.
- Use gradual tan in the following days to maintain your tan evenly.
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I hope this blog post with my tips on applying self-tanner has helped and pleased you. Please let me know if you have any questions or comments about it.
