How To Fake Tan At Home

How To Fake Tan At Home
Previous

Achieving a sun-kissed, natural-looking tan at home is now easier than ever. By following a few simple steps, you can enjoy a flawless faux tan that rivals the glow from a tropical getaway.

This comprehensive guide covers the essentials for a perfect at-home tan, including preparation, application, and tips for facial tanning.Preparation: Setting the Stage for a Beautiful Tan

Tip 01: Hair Removal

Begin your tanning journey by prioritising hair removal as the first step in your routine. To avoid any skin irritation, complete this process at least 12 hours before tanning. Rinse the area with cold water to close pores, preventing the self-tan from settling into open pores and causing uneven spots.

Tip 02: Exfoliate

For regular tanners, the accumulation of old product on wrists, elbows, or knees can impact the outcome. Incorporate the Bali Body Body Scrub into your pre-tan routine. Apply it to dry skin, leave it for 5 minutes, then use the Exfoliating Mitt in the shower to eliminate old tan, dead skin, and dry patches effectively.

Tip 03: Moisturise

Before applying the fake tan, moisturise areas prone to catching colour, such as knees, wrists, elbows, and fingers. Lightly apply a moisturiser to create an additional barrier between your skin and the self-tan, ensuring a lighter and more even application on these areas.

Application: Mastering the Technique

Whether you're a novice or a seasoned tanner, application technique is an important part of the quality of your tan. A quality tanning mitt is essential for even application. The microfiber fabric helps distribute the product more uniformly than hands, preventing the dreaded fake-tan hands. For hard to reach places or to enhance  precision, try the Body Blending Brush for spots like knuckles, knees, and ankles.

 

 What are The Different Types of Home Self Tanners?

  1. Self Tanning Mousse

Shake the self-tan and dispense a few pumps onto the tanning mitt. Apply the product in long, sweeping motions, starting from the ankles and working upward. The colour guide aids in tracking application progress. Save hands and feet for last, using the remaining product on the mitt for these areas.


  1. Express Tan

The beauty of express tans lies in customization. Allow the tan to develop for at least 1 hour for a natural glow, 2 hours for a deep tan, and 3+ hours for the darkest result.

  1. Self Tanners with No Color Guide

Bali Body's Self Tanning Body Mist is dye-free. Apply two separate coats and blend with a mitt, ensuring you can still observe areas where the tan interacts more with hydrated skin.

 

 

  1. No Rinse Tanners

With self-tanners like the Self Tan Body Serum or Self Tan Body Mist, which require no-rinse, you can seamlessly carry out your daily tasks without the risk of transfer. 

  1. Facial Tanners

Whether using Face Tan Mist, Face Tan Serum, or Gradual Face Tan, there are a range of  steps to follow for a flawless facial tan.

Tip 01: Exfoliate

Prepare your face by thoroughly exfoliating and cleansing before application. A smooth, clean base ensures an even application of the micro-mist formula.

Tip 02: Blend

Wipe the applied areas with a cotton pad to guarantee a seamless result, leaving no room for missed patches.

Tip 03: Let it Dry Before Applying Makeup

Apply facial tanners after your morning skincare routine but before makeup. Ensure the product is dry before using any oil or water-based makeup.

At Home Self Tan FAQ

  1. How can I ensure a deep, long-lasting tan at home?

While we have a range of dark tan options, like our cult classic Ultra Dark Self Tanning Mousse, there are some easy ways to ensure your tan is the darkest it can be. 

  • Try sleeping in your tan overnight
  • Try doubling tan layers, letting the first layer dry completely before adding the second layer
  • Maintain your skin hydration with a gradual tan or tan mist that can be used daily to ensure your tan stays dark and golden.
  1. Is it cheaper to self tan at home?

Oftentimes, at home fake tans offer more value for those who regularly fake tan. Learning how to properly fake tan at home can reduce the need for salon visits, helping you save money while enjoying a quality bronzed glow.

  1. What's the easiest and quickest way to self tan before an event?

If you’re strapped for time, the easiest and quickest way to tan before an event is to opt for our 1 Hour Express or Express Ultra Dark Tan. Within an hour, you can achieve a flawless, deep tan without the wait time. If you really don’t have the time, our Instant Tan provides the fastest tan yet – with an innovative, wash off, aerosol formula, it’s perfect for one time events without commiting to a long-lasting tan.

 

 

Tanning at home is an easy, affordable and quick way to transform your beauty routine, and with the tips and products above, you can discover long lasting bronzed skin all year round. Now, slip into your comfiest trackies and enjoy a night of Netflix as your fake tan works its magic, transforming your skin into bronzed perfection.

Discover the collection of at home self tanners online from Bali Body.

 

Previous

Featured Products

1 Hour Express Self Tan

1 Hour Express Self Tan

(835)

1 Hour Express Self Tan

£30.95
£30.95
Self Tan Body Mist

Self Tan Body Mist

(94)

Self Tan Body Mist

£28.95
£28.95
Self Tan Body Serum

Self Tan Body Serum

(131)

Self Tan Body Serum

£29.95
£29.95
Ultra Dark Self Tanning Mousse

Ultra Dark Self Tanning Mousse

(5059)

Ultra Dark Self Tanning Mousse

£28.95
£28.95

Read The Latest News

Read more
How to Maintain a Tan in Winter

How to Maintain a Tan in Winter

Winter doesn’t mean you can’t have a gorgeous glow, but it does require a particular focus on looking after the skin. Cold air, central heating, and lower humidity all work against hydration, leaving skin feeling dry, dull, and lacklustre. The good news is that maintaining a healthy, natural-looking glow through the colder months is entirely achievable with the right formulas in your routine. Here's how to keep your skin glowing all winter long, and the three Bali Body products that make it easy. How Do You Keep a Self Tan in Winter? Winter skin tends to be drier, which means self tan can fade faster and develop more unevenly without proper hydration. The key is choosing formulas with skin-loving ingredients that hydrate as they tan, keeping the skin barrier strong and your glow lasting longer. Why Winter Is Harder on Self Tan Dry skin absorbs self tan unevenly and causes it to fade faster, particularly in areas prone to dryness like the knees, elbows, and ankles. When the skin barrier is compromised by cold weather, products don't absorb as evenly, and colour can develop patchily or disappear within a few days. The solution is to switch to formulas that prioritise hydration alongside colour, treating the skin while building your tan rather than working against its winter condition. Self Tan Body Milk For a winter self tan that genuinely improves your skin over time, Self Tan Body Milk is the standout product. Formulated with 93% skincare ingredients, it functions as much as a treatment as it does a self tan, making it one of the most skin-loving options in the range. Key ingredients include a 4x Hyaluronic Acid complex for deep, lasting hydration, ceramides to support and strengthen the skin barrier, and Vitamin C to brighten and even skin tone. All three are particularly valuable in winter, when the skin barrier needs extra support and dullness is more likely to set in. The rinse-free formula absorbs quickly and fits seamlessly into an existing bodycare routine, replacing your regular winter moisturiser while building a natural-looking, hydrated self tan at the same time. With consistent use, skin feels noticeably softer and looks healthier, even in the depths of winter. Best for: dry or dehydrated winter skin that needs serious hydration alongside a buildable, natural-looking tan. Clear Self Tanning Gel For a lightweight winter tanning option that delivers a streak-free glow without any of the heaviness, the Clear Self Tanning Gel is a brilliant choice. The completely clear, zero-transfer formula goes on weightlessly and develops a smooth, natural-looking tan over 4 to 6 hours. Enriched with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and aloe vera, it hydrates and soothes the skin while colour develops, making it a solid option for winter skin that needs hydration without a rich or heavy texture. The rinse-free, zero-transfer formula means no mess on clothing or sheets, and at 400ml it's a generous size that lasts through the season. The buildable formula means you can adjust the depth of your glow as needed throughout winter, whether you want a barely-there base or a deeper colour to carry through into spring. Best for: those who want a lightweight, fuss-free winter self tan with hydrating ingredients and zero transfer. Gradual Tanning Butter For dry winter skin that needs the most intensive nourishment, the Gradual Tanning Butter is the richest and most restorative option in the range. This 4-in-1 formula hydrates, tans, illuminates, and repairs the skin in a single step, making it a genuinely skin-loving addition to any winter bodycare routine. Packed with niacinamide to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce redness, and shea butter for deep, lasting moisture, it addresses the most common winter skin complaints while building a subtle, buildable glow with every application. The colour develops gradually, so it's easy to maintain a natural-looking tan throughout the season without the need for frequent full applications. The rich, creamy texture is particularly well suited to winter, sitting comfortably on dry skin and delivering sustained hydration throughout the day. Apply daily as a body moisturiser and let the colour build over time. Best for: very dry or dull winter skin that needs rich nourishment and a gentle, gradual tan. How to Keep Your Winter Glow Looking Its Best A few simple habits make a real difference to how your self tan performs in winter. Exfoliate gently every one to two weeks using the Exfoliating Mitt to remove dry skin build-up before reapplying Moisturise daily to keep the skin hydrated between tan applications and help colour fade evenly Pay extra attention to dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles, applying a light moisturiser before tanning to slow absorption in these spots Apply self tan more frequently in winter if skin is particularly dry, as colour tends to fade faster when the skin barrier is compromised Layer the Gradual Tanning Butter over a mousse base to maintain and extend colour between full applications Which Winter Glow Product Is Right for You? For intensive skincare and tan in one step: Self Tan Body Milk For a lightweight, zero-transfer everyday glow: Clear Self Tanning Gel For rich nourishment and a gradual, buildable colour: Gradual Tanning Butter All three are formulated with skin-loving ingredients that make them particularly well suited to winter skin, and all are dermatologically and clinically tested safe for sensitive skin.  

How to Maintain a Tan in Winter

Winter doesn’t mean you can’t have a gorgeous glow, but it does require a particular focus on looking after the skin. Cold air, central heating, and lower humidity all work against hydration, leaving skin feeling dry, dull, and lacklustre. The good news is that maintaining a healthy, natural-looking glow through the colder months is entirely achievable with the right formulas in your routine. Here's how to keep your skin glowing all winter long, and the three Bali Body products that make it easy. How Do You Keep a Self Tan in Winter? Winter skin tends to be drier, which means self tan can fade faster and develop more unevenly without proper hydration. The key is choosing formulas with skin-loving ingredients that hydrate as they tan, keeping the skin barrier strong and your glow lasting longer. Why Winter Is Harder on Self Tan Dry skin absorbs self tan unevenly and causes it to fade faster, particularly in areas prone to dryness like the knees, elbows, and ankles. When the skin barrier is compromised by cold weather, products don't absorb as evenly, and colour can develop patchily or disappear within a few days. The solution is to switch to formulas that prioritise hydration alongside colour, treating the skin while building your tan rather than working against its winter condition. Self Tan Body Milk For a winter self tan that genuinely improves your skin over time, Self Tan Body Milk is the standout product. Formulated with 93% skincare ingredients, it functions as much as a treatment as it does a self tan, making it one of the most skin-loving options in the range. Key ingredients include a 4x Hyaluronic Acid complex for deep, lasting hydration, ceramides to support and strengthen the skin barrier, and Vitamin C to brighten and even skin tone. All three are particularly valuable in winter, when the skin barrier needs extra support and dullness is more likely to set in. The rinse-free formula absorbs quickly and fits seamlessly into an existing bodycare routine, replacing your regular winter moisturiser while building a natural-looking, hydrated self tan at the same time. With consistent use, skin feels noticeably softer and looks healthier, even in the depths of winter. Best for: dry or dehydrated winter skin that needs serious hydration alongside a buildable, natural-looking tan. Clear Self Tanning Gel For a lightweight winter tanning option that delivers a streak-free glow without any of the heaviness, the Clear Self Tanning Gel is a brilliant choice. The completely clear, zero-transfer formula goes on weightlessly and develops a smooth, natural-looking tan over 4 to 6 hours. Enriched with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and aloe vera, it hydrates and soothes the skin while colour develops, making it a solid option for winter skin that needs hydration without a rich or heavy texture. The rinse-free, zero-transfer formula means no mess on clothing or sheets, and at 400ml it's a generous size that lasts through the season. The buildable formula means you can adjust the depth of your glow as needed throughout winter, whether you want a barely-there base or a deeper colour to carry through into spring. Best for: those who want a lightweight, fuss-free winter self tan with hydrating ingredients and zero transfer. Gradual Tanning Butter For dry winter skin that needs the most intensive nourishment, the Gradual Tanning Butter is the richest and most restorative option in the range. This 4-in-1 formula hydrates, tans, illuminates, and repairs the skin in a single step, making it a genuinely skin-loving addition to any winter bodycare routine. Packed with niacinamide to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce redness, and shea butter for deep, lasting moisture, it addresses the most common winter skin complaints while building a subtle, buildable glow with every application. The colour develops gradually, so it's easy to maintain a natural-looking tan throughout the season without the need for frequent full applications. The rich, creamy texture is particularly well suited to winter, sitting comfortably on dry skin and delivering sustained hydration throughout the day. Apply daily as a body moisturiser and let the colour build over time. Best for: very dry or dull winter skin that needs rich nourishment and a gentle, gradual tan. How to Keep Your Winter Glow Looking Its Best A few simple habits make a real difference to how your self tan performs in winter. Exfoliate gently every one to two weeks using the Exfoliating Mitt to remove dry skin build-up before reapplying Moisturise daily to keep the skin hydrated between tan applications and help colour fade evenly Pay extra attention to dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles, applying a light moisturiser before tanning to slow absorption in these spots Apply self tan more frequently in winter if skin is particularly dry, as colour tends to fade faster when the skin barrier is compromised Layer the Gradual Tanning Butter over a mousse base to maintain and extend colour between full applications Which Winter Glow Product Is Right for You? For intensive skincare and tan in one step: Self Tan Body Milk For a lightweight, zero-transfer everyday glow: Clear Self Tanning Gel For rich nourishment and a gradual, buildable colour: Gradual Tanning Butter All three are formulated with skin-loving ingredients that make them particularly well suited to winter skin, and all are dermatologically and clinically tested safe for sensitive skin.  

Best Tanning Oils For Dry Skin

Best Tanning Oils For Dry Skin

Dry skin and tanning oils are a natural pairing. Unlike traditional sunscreens or lotions, tanning oils are formulated with rich, plant-based oils that deeply nourish and hydrate while helping you develop a natural, golden tan in the sun. For dry skin types in particular, a good tanning oil does double duty - protecting and bronzing while actively improving the skin's condition throughout the day. Here's a look at the best tanning oils for dry skin from Bali Body, and what makes each one worth knowing about. Are Tanning Oils Good for Dry Skin? Yes. Tanning oils are typically rich in nourishing plant-based oils like coconut oil, sweet almond oil, and grapeseed oil, making them one of the most hydrating options for outdoor tanning. They lock in moisture while helping the skin develop a deeper, more even natural tan. What to Look for in a Tanning Oil for Dry Skin The best tanning body oils for dry skin combine SPF protection with deeply hydrating ingredients. Key things to look for: Plant-based carrier oils like coconut oil, sweet almond oil, or grapeseed oil Skin-nourishing extracts that support hydration and repair SPF protection to prevent sun damage, which worsens dryness over time Lightweight texture that absorbs easily without feeling heavy or sticky All Bali Body tanning oils are formulated with a blend of coconut oil, sweet almond oil, and grapeseed oil as their base, making them naturally hydrating and suitable for dry skin types. Watermelon Tanning Oil SPF15 The Watermelon Tanning Oil SPF15 is one of Bali Body's most iconic products and a standout tanning oil for dry skin. Its base of grapeseed oil, coconut oil, and sweet almond oil delivers deep hydration from the moment you apply it, while the watermelon seed extract works to lock in moisture and boost the skin's natural melanin production for a deeper, more even sun tan. With SPF15 UVA and UVB protection, it keeps the skin shielded while you tan. Lightweight and fast-absorbing, it leaves the skin feeling nourished and glowing rather than greasy. Apply generously over your SPF for the best result. Best for: dry skin looking for deep hydration and a naturally enhanced sun tan. Cacao Tanning Oil SPF15 The Cacao Tanning Oil SPF15 is the best tanning oil for dry skin that wants an instant colour boost alongside long-term nourishment. Formulated with organic cacao extract, it delivers an instant bronzed tint on application while the base of skin-loving oils deeply hydrates throughout the day. The rich, chocolatey scent is a bonus, and the formula's nourishing profile makes it particularly well suited to dry skin that needs extra moisture during sun exposure. SPF15 UVA and UVB protection keeps the skin protected as your natural tan develops. Best for: dry skin wanting an instant bronzed tint with added hydration and protection. Pineapple Tanning Oil SPF15 For dry skin with additional concerns like uneven skin tone, fine lines, or irritation, the Pineapple Tanning Oil SPF15 is worth a closer look. Enriched with pineapple fruit extract, it brings anti-ageing properties and helps to firm the skin and reduce the appearance of uneven tone over time. Vitamin E adds another layer of skin-soothing benefit, making it particularly well suited to dry skin types that are also prone to irritation or eczema. The base of coconut oil and sweet almond oil keeps skin hydrated throughout the day, while SPF15 ensures protection as you tan. Best for: dry skin with concerns around uneven tone, fine lines, or sensitivity. Do Tanning Oils Work Without Sun Exposure? Bali Body tanning oils are designed to enhance your natural sun tan and require sun exposure to deliver their tanning effect. If you're after a glow without the sun, the self tan range is the better option. That said, all three tanning oils can also be used as a deeply nourishing body oil without sun exposure to hydrate and soften dry skin. How to Use Tanning Oil on Dry Skin To get the most out of your tanning oil and keep dry skin in its best condition: Apply generously and evenly to dry skin before sun exposure Reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating Follow up with a hydrating body lotion or the Gradual Tanning Butter after sun exposure to replenish moisture Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing, a hat, and sunglasses when outdoors Shop the Best Tanning Oils for Dry Skin Whether you're after deep hydration, an instant bronzed tint, or skin-firming benefits, there's a Bali Body tanning oil for every dry skin need. Shop all tanning oils here.

Best Tanning Oils For Dry Skin

Dry skin and tanning oils are a natural pairing. Unlike traditional sunscreens or lotions, tanning oils are formulated with rich, plant-based oils that deeply nourish and hydrate while helping you develop a natural, golden tan in the sun. For dry skin types in particular, a good tanning oil does double duty - protecting and bronzing while actively improving the skin's condition throughout the day. Here's a look at the best tanning oils for dry skin from Bali Body, and what makes each one worth knowing about. Are Tanning Oils Good for Dry Skin? Yes. Tanning oils are typically rich in nourishing plant-based oils like coconut oil, sweet almond oil, and grapeseed oil, making them one of the most hydrating options for outdoor tanning. They lock in moisture while helping the skin develop a deeper, more even natural tan. What to Look for in a Tanning Oil for Dry Skin The best tanning body oils for dry skin combine SPF protection with deeply hydrating ingredients. Key things to look for: Plant-based carrier oils like coconut oil, sweet almond oil, or grapeseed oil Skin-nourishing extracts that support hydration and repair SPF protection to prevent sun damage, which worsens dryness over time Lightweight texture that absorbs easily without feeling heavy or sticky All Bali Body tanning oils are formulated with a blend of coconut oil, sweet almond oil, and grapeseed oil as their base, making them naturally hydrating and suitable for dry skin types. Watermelon Tanning Oil SPF15 The Watermelon Tanning Oil SPF15 is one of Bali Body's most iconic products and a standout tanning oil for dry skin. Its base of grapeseed oil, coconut oil, and sweet almond oil delivers deep hydration from the moment you apply it, while the watermelon seed extract works to lock in moisture and boost the skin's natural melanin production for a deeper, more even sun tan. With SPF15 UVA and UVB protection, it keeps the skin shielded while you tan. Lightweight and fast-absorbing, it leaves the skin feeling nourished and glowing rather than greasy. Apply generously over your SPF for the best result. Best for: dry skin looking for deep hydration and a naturally enhanced sun tan. Cacao Tanning Oil SPF15 The Cacao Tanning Oil SPF15 is the best tanning oil for dry skin that wants an instant colour boost alongside long-term nourishment. Formulated with organic cacao extract, it delivers an instant bronzed tint on application while the base of skin-loving oils deeply hydrates throughout the day. The rich, chocolatey scent is a bonus, and the formula's nourishing profile makes it particularly well suited to dry skin that needs extra moisture during sun exposure. SPF15 UVA and UVB protection keeps the skin protected as your natural tan develops. Best for: dry skin wanting an instant bronzed tint with added hydration and protection. Pineapple Tanning Oil SPF15 For dry skin with additional concerns like uneven skin tone, fine lines, or irritation, the Pineapple Tanning Oil SPF15 is worth a closer look. Enriched with pineapple fruit extract, it brings anti-ageing properties and helps to firm the skin and reduce the appearance of uneven tone over time. Vitamin E adds another layer of skin-soothing benefit, making it particularly well suited to dry skin types that are also prone to irritation or eczema. The base of coconut oil and sweet almond oil keeps skin hydrated throughout the day, while SPF15 ensures protection as you tan. Best for: dry skin with concerns around uneven tone, fine lines, or sensitivity. Do Tanning Oils Work Without Sun Exposure? Bali Body tanning oils are designed to enhance your natural sun tan and require sun exposure to deliver their tanning effect. If you're after a glow without the sun, the self tan range is the better option. That said, all three tanning oils can also be used as a deeply nourishing body oil without sun exposure to hydrate and soften dry skin. How to Use Tanning Oil on Dry Skin To get the most out of your tanning oil and keep dry skin in its best condition: Apply generously and evenly to dry skin before sun exposure Reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating Follow up with a hydrating body lotion or the Gradual Tanning Butter after sun exposure to replenish moisture Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing, a hat, and sunglasses when outdoors Shop the Best Tanning Oils for Dry Skin Whether you're after deep hydration, an instant bronzed tint, or skin-firming benefits, there's a Bali Body tanning oil for every dry skin need. Shop all tanning oils here.

How to Apply Self Tan Without Streaks: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Apply Self Tan Without Streaks: A Step-by-Step Guide

A streak-free self tan is less about luck and more about technique. The right prep, the right formula, and a few simple habits make all the difference between a patchy result and a flawless, natural-looking glow. How Do You Avoid Streaks When Self Tanning? Streaks happen when self tan is applied to uneven, dry, or unprepared skin. The solution is thorough exfoliation before tanning, clean and dry skin at application, and a formula with a colour guide so you can see exactly where you've applied. Step 1: Exfoliate at Least 24 Hours Before Tanning Exfoliation is the most important step in avoiding streaks. Buffing away dead skin cells creates a smooth, even surface for the tan to grip to, which means more even colour development and a longer-lasting result. Use the Exfoliating Mitt in the shower to gently buff all over, paying particular attention to the knees, elbows, ankles, and hands. These areas tend to absorb more product and can develop darker or patchier without proper prep. Exfoliate 24 hours before rather than right before tanning. This gives the skin time to return to its natural pH, which helps colour develop more evenly. Step 2: Skip the Shave on Tan Day Shave or wax at least 24 hours before tanning. Freshly shaved skin has open pores that can absorb self tan unevenly, leading to a speckled finish. Timing it right means your tan develops smoothly and lasts longer. Step 3: Keep Skin Clean and Product-Free Moisturisers, oils, deodorant, and perfume can all create a barrier that prevents self tan from developing evenly. Shower beforehand and apply your self tan to completely clean, dry skin with nothing else underneath. Step 4: Moisturise Dry Areas Before applying, dab a small amount of lightweight moisturiser onto dry areas like the elbows, knees, ankles, and hands. This slows product absorption in these spots and helps colour develop more evenly. Step 5: Choose a Formula with a Colour Guide A tinted formula lets you see exactly where you've applied product as you go, making it easy to spot missed areas before they develop. The Bali Body Self Tanning Mousse and the 1 Hour Express Self Tan both feature colour guide technology, making them two of the easiest streak-free options available. The guide colour washes off in the shower, leaving a smooth, natural-looking bronze behind. Step 6: Apply Using a Tanning Mitt Use the Luxe Tanning Mitt and apply in long, sweeping motions over larger areas, and circular motions around joints. For tricky spots like the neck and décolletage, the Body Blending Brush helps buff in product seamlessly. Always use less product around dry areas like knees, elbows, and ankles. Step 7: Blend the Edges and Wash Your Hands Pay close attention to the hairline, wrists, ankles, and between the fingers and toes. Use the remaining product on your mitt to lightly blend into these areas. Wash your hands thoroughly after to avoid stained palms. Step 8: Let It Dry Before Getting Dressed Allow your self tan to fully dry before putting on clothing. Opt for loose, dark clothing if you need to get dressed quickly, and avoid tight waistbands or straps that can rub the product off before it sets. How to Maintain a Streak-Free Tan Moisturise daily to help the tan fade evenly Avoid long baths or heavy sweating in the first 24 hours Use Gradual Tan or Self Tan Body Milk between applications to maintain colour Before reapplying, use the Exfoliating Mitt and Express Tan Remover Scrub to remove old tan first Shop the full range online here.

How to Apply Self Tan Without Streaks: A Step-by-Step Guide

A streak-free self tan is less about luck and more about technique. The right prep, the right formula, and a few simple habits make all the difference between a patchy result and a flawless, natural-looking glow. How Do You Avoid Streaks When Self Tanning? Streaks happen when self tan is applied to uneven, dry, or unprepared skin. The solution is thorough exfoliation before tanning, clean and dry skin at application, and a formula with a colour guide so you can see exactly where you've applied. Step 1: Exfoliate at Least 24 Hours Before Tanning Exfoliation is the most important step in avoiding streaks. Buffing away dead skin cells creates a smooth, even surface for the tan to grip to, which means more even colour development and a longer-lasting result. Use the Exfoliating Mitt in the shower to gently buff all over, paying particular attention to the knees, elbows, ankles, and hands. These areas tend to absorb more product and can develop darker or patchier without proper prep. Exfoliate 24 hours before rather than right before tanning. This gives the skin time to return to its natural pH, which helps colour develop more evenly. Step 2: Skip the Shave on Tan Day Shave or wax at least 24 hours before tanning. Freshly shaved skin has open pores that can absorb self tan unevenly, leading to a speckled finish. Timing it right means your tan develops smoothly and lasts longer. Step 3: Keep Skin Clean and Product-Free Moisturisers, oils, deodorant, and perfume can all create a barrier that prevents self tan from developing evenly. Shower beforehand and apply your self tan to completely clean, dry skin with nothing else underneath. Step 4: Moisturise Dry Areas Before applying, dab a small amount of lightweight moisturiser onto dry areas like the elbows, knees, ankles, and hands. This slows product absorption in these spots and helps colour develop more evenly. Step 5: Choose a Formula with a Colour Guide A tinted formula lets you see exactly where you've applied product as you go, making it easy to spot missed areas before they develop. The Bali Body Self Tanning Mousse and the 1 Hour Express Self Tan both feature colour guide technology, making them two of the easiest streak-free options available. The guide colour washes off in the shower, leaving a smooth, natural-looking bronze behind. Step 6: Apply Using a Tanning Mitt Use the Luxe Tanning Mitt and apply in long, sweeping motions over larger areas, and circular motions around joints. For tricky spots like the neck and décolletage, the Body Blending Brush helps buff in product seamlessly. Always use less product around dry areas like knees, elbows, and ankles. Step 7: Blend the Edges and Wash Your Hands Pay close attention to the hairline, wrists, ankles, and between the fingers and toes. Use the remaining product on your mitt to lightly blend into these areas. Wash your hands thoroughly after to avoid stained palms. Step 8: Let It Dry Before Getting Dressed Allow your self tan to fully dry before putting on clothing. Opt for loose, dark clothing if you need to get dressed quickly, and avoid tight waistbands or straps that can rub the product off before it sets. How to Maintain a Streak-Free Tan Moisturise daily to help the tan fade evenly Avoid long baths or heavy sweating in the first 24 hours Use Gradual Tan or Self Tan Body Milk between applications to maintain colour Before reapplying, use the Exfoliating Mitt and Express Tan Remover Scrub to remove old tan first Shop the full range online here.