How to Get Glowing Skin with Self-Tanner

No matter what time of year it is, there’s one beauty product that can help give you the appearance of a just-back-from-the-beach glow, and that would be self-tanner. Even in the middle of winter, you can apply self-tanner to fake the look of a summer tan. But actually applying sunless tanner so that it goes on evenly? That’s easier said than done. The good news is, there are a few application tips that can help you create the appearance of glowing skin with ease. Keep reading to learn how to apply self-tanner the right way so you can glow all year.

SELF-TANNER APPLICATION TIP #1: FIND YOUR FORMULA MATCH

Before you begin applying self-tanner, it’s important to decide which one you’re going to use. There are lots of different types of self-tanner to choose from—so it all comes down to picking the one that best suits your needs. Here, find our best self-tanner options.

For a self-tanning mousse…try the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Water Mousse. This self-tanning mousse has a clear, hydrating formula that’ll instantly give skin a natural tan look with a sun-kissed glow and even finish.

For a self-tanning tinted lotion…try the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze™ Tinted Self-Tanning Lotion. This transfer- and water-resistant formula creates an instant bronze tint as your flawless-looking sunless tan develops. The bronze tint has a hint of shimmer and dries quickly.

For a self-tanning serum…try the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze™ Self-Tanning Serum. This self-tanning serum has a quick-dry formula, goes on streak-free, and can last for up to two weeks.

For a self-tanning mist…try the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze™ ProPerfect Salon Airbrush Mist. This self-tanning mist gives you a salon-inspired airbrush tanning result at home. The 360-degree wide-angle jet applicator provides continuous coverage for a 100 percent natural-looking tan.

For a self-tanning gelee…try the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze™ Self-Tanning Gelee. This self-tanning gelee has a refreshing skin-smoothing formula with AHAs and vitamin E for a perfect, streak-free tan.

For self-tanning towelettes…try the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze™ Towelettes for Body. These convenient, single-use self-tanning wipes have an advanced skin-smoothing formula with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and vitamin E for a smooth, streak-free tan.

For a self-tanning lotion…try the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze™ Self-Tanning Lotion. This self-tanning lotion moisturizes your skin while a perfect sunless tan develops. It’s formulated with vitamin E and AHAs to provide a beautiful tan without any streaks.

For a self-tanning bronzer…try the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze™ Luminous Bronzer. This bronzing lotion instantly illuminates the appearance of your skin for a bronze glow.

SELF-TANNER APPLICATION TIP #2: START WITH EXFOLIATION

Prepping for self-tanner application starts in the shower. Cleanse and exfoliate your skin before reaching for your self-tanner of choice. Exfoliation helps slough away dead skin cell buildup from the surface of your skin, which could cause your color to go on patchy. Reach for a gentle scrub, using circular motions to apply it while you’re in the tub.

SELF-TANNER APPLICATION TIP #3: MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE

Nope, it’s still not self-tanner time. After you’re done exfoliating, apply an oil-free lotion, paying particular attention to areas that are dry. Remember: you want to help ensure that your color goes on evenly. Moisturizing can help create a smooth base for your self-tanner application.

SELF-TANNER APPLICATION TIP #4: WORK METHODICALLY

Once you’ve exfoliated and moisturized, it’s go time. Pick up your self-tanner and start applying it evenly, but use it sparingly around your ankles, knees, and elbows. These areas tend to feel rough, so the color may go on patchier there.

SELF-TANNER APPLICATION TIP #5: WASH YOUR HANDS

If you used your hands to apply self-tanner, head to the sink once you’re done. Don’t overlook this step—otherwise, you could end up with hands that are darker than the rest of your body!

SELF-TANNER APPLICATION TIP #6: BE PATIENT

Always let your self-tanner dry before getting dressed or putting on makeup. To help avoid staining, opt for loose, dark clothing. 

SELF-TANNER APPLICATION TIP #7: TOP OFF YOUR GLOW

Who wouldn’t want to take their faux glow to the next level? To enhance your tan, incorporate a bit of bronzer and highlighter into your makeup look.

To add warmth to your visage, reach for the L’Oréal Paris Summer Belle Makeup Bronze Please! This ultra-matte bronzer is packed with blendable, long-wearing pigments. Sweep it where the sun naturally hits for natural-looking, sun-lit color on your face. You can also blend it down onto your shoulders and collarbones for a boost of bronze there, too.

Complement your bronzed goddess look with a little illumination. The L’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion Natural Glow Enhancer is perfect for the job. This highlighting lotion delivers an illuminating color tint to enhance your skin’s natural glow for a healthier-looking, brighter complexion. Smooth it all over your face and décolletage for radiant skin or apply it to key spots.

Next: The Best Self-Tanner for Every Situation