Self-Tanning Routine
Want to know the backstory of how self-tanning became a part of my beauty routine? When I was twenty years old, I was cast in a theater production that required me to self-tan for every show. As the show ran for almost a year, I was self-tanning religiously, and it naturally became a habit of mine. Over the past few years, I have found my holy grail products and the ideal application process for a perfect tan! Here are the steps and products necessary to get that natural glow!
Skin Prep
Everything Shower
The most important part of your self-tan application starts before the self-tanner even touches your body. I typically do my everything shower (check out my entire routine on YouTube) before self-tanning to give my body a refresh. I would recommend not washing your hair before tanning, as conditioner can make your back and legs look streaky due to the ingredients. I typically wash my hair the morning after when rinsing off my tan!
Shaving
Before I put on self-tanner, I shave any areas I need to to give the tanner a smooth surface. I personally use men's razors because they get closer to my skin for a cleaner shave (and Will uses the same brand, so I never have to worry about buying refill blades!) I love using shaving cream on my legs and shaving oil for my bikini area to reduce bumps and redness.
Exfoliation
Exfoliation is key, so do NOT skip this step! First, I use a tan removal mitt to remove any leftover tanner on my body, or I will do a mix of exfoliation gloves and my favorite sugar scrub. I'm currently obsessed with the Tree Hut scrub, as it is the perfect scent for summer!
Tanner Application
Post-Shower
When it comes to applying self-tanner, practice makes perfect. I found myself getting better with every application as I discovered different tips and tricks that work for my body! After I shower, I let my body cool down for about ten to fifteen minutes before I start the application process. During that time, I love to whiten my teeth, complete my skincare, or make my sleepy girl smoothie while waiting.
Face Products & Application
I don't always tan my face, but when I do, I use the dark face tanner from Loving Tan! While I don't use a tanning mitt on my face, if you purchase any product from Loving Tan using my code LAURENN, you get a free deluxe application mitt to help with your body application! I also use my Pink Lily tanning drops and mix them with my moisturizer. What products I use depends on my acne, eczema, or if I'm wearing makeup for the next few days. Always make sure to wash your hands after this step!
Body Products
When it comes to picking out the perfect tanner, there are SO many options. If you are in a rush, use the two-hour express tan, which is ideal for a last-minute tan for events. If you want to sleep in it overnight like I do, I use the standard tanner from Loving Tan. Loving Tan has a variety of shades and options to match your preference and skill level. I love using the Platinum self-tanner because of the ultra-dark color it gives me.
Body Application
I start with two pumps of mousse and work my way up my body, starting with my legs. It's always best to start with less product and add more later if necessary. Always make sure you are applying the product in circular motions as you begin to work your way up to your stomach and chest and end with your arms and hands. When applying tanner on moisturized areas of your skin, apply lightly so the product isn't soaked into your skin and appears darker than other spots. I will air dry or blow dry my skin on cool for a few minutes, and it's normal for your skin to feel slightly tacky!
Self-Tanner Aftercare
Post Application
Once your self-tanner is applied, it is important to remember that the look and length of your tan can be disrupted without the proper aftercare! To avoid any mistakes, I use a drying powder after I've let the tanner dry on my skin. I only use the powder on parts of my body that have a tendency to crease, including my knees, behind my knees, under my boobs, the crease of my arm, and on my neck. I apply the powder with a brush, and a little goes a long way with the product!
Sleeping in Your Tan
When I self-tan, I have designated self-tanner pajamas because I don't want to stain my favorite pairs. I chose a dark-colored, cozy cotton pair that is breathable, but I recommend wearing long pants if you move a lot while you sleep. If you are worried about your tan transferring over to your sheets or when you're traveling, I recommend a sleep sac. I personally have white sheets on my bed and wash them weekly, so the color transfer doesn't bother me. However, when I travel, I always bring one with me.
Post-Morning Tan
The morning after you tan, it's time to rinse it off! Every bottle tells you the length of time to leave it on your body, so don't make the mistake of letting it sit on too long, or it will crack and look uneven. You NEED to rinse off your tan to look as natural as possible and make it long-lasting. I rinse the tanner with only lukewarm water, no soap, and I pat dry. Moisturizing afterward is important for a beautiful tan, and I am obsessed with my Vaseline moisturizer and use it every morning and night post-tan.
For me, self-tanning is something that makes me feel confident in my own skin! A fresh, glowy tan brings a smile to my face, especially during those cold winter months. I hope this blog helps you find your perfect self-tanning routine!
