The most popular post I have ever written was about my self-tan routine. I posted an updated version in 2017, but a lot has changed in the self-tanning world.
Products have gotten better, and techniques have gotten better, and I feel like it’s about time I update my post!
At this time, I never tan using a tanning bed, and I completely rely on self-tanner. And I am happy to say, I think a lot of people have made the switch.
Although tanning has helped my family because my dad has psoriasis, and I have skin rashes that are controlled by UV rays, we have adjusted to a no tan life that to new medications and a change in eating habits.
Also, self-tanners have become so advanced. They are better at coloring, and they are easier to apply.
My top two self-tanners are Bondi Sands and LovingTan.
If you are nervous about self-tanning, don’t be. If it goes badly, it washes off.
Scrub, scrub and scrub
You will want to start out with fresh skin. The best way to do this is to buy some inexpensive scrubbing gloves and use a body scrub all over your body.
And if you become a religious self-tanner, don’t forget you will need to replace your gloves.
When you scrub, pay special attention to your arms and legs. These are the areas that you will really want to be smooth because everyone sees them.
And if you are scrubbing off an old tan, don’t forget your neck, armpits, and other crevices. This is typically where extra self-tanner settles, so it will take some focused scrubbing to get it off.
Once you are done scrubbing, be sure to shave.
Moisturize dry spots
When you dry off, moisturize the bottom of your feet, your knees and your elbows.
This will create a protective layer when you apply your self-tan. The tan will still get these areas, but it won’t over-exaggerate them because they are dry.
Wait
Do not apply your self-tanner immediately. You will want to be completely dry, and you will want your pores to close back up.
After you shower, the heat opens all your pores. If you immediately apply self-tanner, you can create little dots all over your skin.
Apply using latex gloves
This is not my original idea, but I can’t remember who I got it from on Youtube.
I was always guilty of using a tanning mitt and not wanting to buy another one and using it way past time to recycle it. #sorrynotsorry
I found this video of a girl using latex gloves (without powder) to apply the self-tan. This was honestly genius. She didn’t waste any product; it definitely did not leak onto her hands; it was more sanitary; and it was cheaper.
I changed my strategy because of this video, and I am never looking back. It takes a little bit more massaging into the skin, but it’s so worth it.
Especially with the price of LovingTan being over $30!
Use Jergens Natural Glow Wet Skin
In order to keep my tan going, I use Jergens Natural Glow Wet Skin. I apply this every other shower, pat dry and keep going. This extends my tan to about a week and a half.
On the days I don’t use the wet skin, I moisturize after every shower. This is key in making sure your tan fades away naturally and lasts longer!
