How to Apply Self-Tan for a Natural Sun-Kissed Glow

How to Apply Self-Tan

For Streak Free Application: 

Prep Matters…For colour that glides on effortlessly and wears well, proper preparation will give you salon perfect results at home. The extra time taken to prep the skin before you apply self-tan means your tan not only looks better, it will also wear better and last longer.

1.Exfoliate:

Begin by exfoliating your skin to remove dead cells and create a smooth canvas for the self-tanner. Focus on rough areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. Use a gentle exfoliator and preferably one without oil, as oil can create a barrier that hinders tanner absorption.

2. Moisturise Dry Areas:

Apply a light, moisturiser to dry areas, such as your elbows, knees, and ankles. This helps prevent the self-tanner from clinging to these areas and creating dark patches.

Pro Tip: for a special occasion prep a day or two before, exfoliate and moisturise your body before bed. The next day apply your self tan. When self-tanner is applied to well-hydrated skin, it spreads more evenly, reducing the likelihood of streaks or uneven coloration.

3. Quality Counts:

Opt for a natural and organic self-tanner that is gentle on the skin. Look for an ingredients list that is both irritant-free and with added skincare benefits.

4. Application:

Avoid stained palms and achieve an even coverage by using a tanning mitt to apply self-tan. Mitts help create an airbrushed, streak-free finish. Apply a small amount of self-tanner to the mitt and blend it onto your skin using circular motions. Begin by applying the self-tanner from your feet and work your way up. This ensures that you don’t accidentally smudge or crease the tan as you go. Pay close attention to evenly distributing the self-tanner and apply the tan in thin layers, blending well. Avoid over-applying in one area, as this can result in uneven colour. Check in a full-length mirror to see your entire body and ensure even coverage.

Pro Tip: dilute the self-tanner with a bit of moisturiser before applying it to your hands and feet. Concentrate on the top of your hands and the tops of your feet, then lightly blend it onto your fingers and toes.

Our top pick for customisable colour is the WOTNOT Organic  Self Tan Mousse applied with the WOTNOT Tan Application Mitt. The addition of ylang ylang, patchouli, citrus and geranium creates a fresh scent without the fake self-tan “stench” of traditional synthetic based self-tanners.