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-a-beach-vacation glow, and that would be self-tanner. Even in the middle of winter, you can apply a self-tanner to fake the look of a summer tan. But actually applying self-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 via self-tanner with ease. Keep reading to learn how to apply self-tanner the right way for glowing skin.

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 one that best suits your needs. Here, our best self-tanner options.

Self-tanning tinted lotion: L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze™ Tinted Self-Tanning Lotion
This tinted self-tanning lotion has an advanced skin-smoothing formula with AHAs and vitamin E for a perfect, streak-free tan. 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.

Self-tanning serum: 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.

Self-tanning mist: 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. The super-fine mist applies evenly and dries quickly with no need to rub in. The jet applicator allows you to cover a greater area of skin at one time for easy application.

Self-tanning gelee: 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. This unique quick-dry formula leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth as your flawless-looking sunless tan develops. The non-tinted, lightweight formula applies easily and dries quickly.

Self-tanning towelettes: 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. The formula applies easily and dries quickly.

Self-tanning lotion: 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, streak-free tan.

Self-tanning bronzer: L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze™ Luminous Bronzer
This bronzer instantly illuminates the appearance of your skin for a bronze glow.

Self-Tanner Application Tip #1: 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 #2: 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 #3: 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 #4: 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 #5: Be Patient

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

So you see, using self-tanner for glowing skin is simple! For more application advice, check out our article, 6 Self-Tanner Hacks to Help You Get a Golden Glow.