Gradual tan can generally be applied by hand, but you can also use a mitt to ensure smooth and streak-free application while protecting your hands. Instant self-tanners usually require the use of a mitt - be sure to read the instructions on the product packaging.
Apply your chosen gradual self tanner with your hand or a mitt, smoothing carefully from the legs upwards. We recommend using circular motions to ensure all areas are evenly covered.
Yes – especially if it's freshly applied, or if you've been sweating a lot. This doesn't matter if you've used spray tan or any other self-tan product. The colour will transfer onto sheets (and clothes!) if you've just applied the tanning product and it hasn't fully dried.
Sometimes, it's impossible to avoid getting self-tanner stains on your palms and fingers if you don't use a tanning mitt. It can be a challenge to thoroughly wash off self-tanner stains on your hands, so a mitt is a better option. Allows for Reusing – Tanning mitts are also designed to be used over and over again.
The Final Decision: Tanning Mitts Are The Best Option
When it comes to achieving a flawless, streak-free, and natural-looking tan, the self-tanning mitt is the clear winner. It offers superior control over the application process, ensures seamless blending, and prevents unwanted staining on your hands.
Dampen your tanning mitt
Yes, your skin should be dry prior to self-tanning, however, dampening your tanning mitt before applying your self tanner is a great self tanning tip for beginners especially to ensure an easy, smooth application. The key here is to gently wet your mitt before wringing it out completely.
For most users, the desired colour develops gradually over several applications, so it's worth developing a self-tan routine. For a deeper shade, you may choose to reapply the product every day — especially if you notice as the tan develops that you missed a spot the previous day.
When you perspire, tanning solution will transfer to your hand, and cause staining. If you know you'll be sleeping with your hand between your knees, it's best to wear loose pajama pants and an oversized t-shirt. We also recommend laying a towel over your pillow to prevent any bronzer transfer from your neck.
While gradual tan is more likely to apply and fade evenly, it is still possible for your gradual tan to go patchy. It'll all depend on the quality of the gradual tan you're applying, how much you've prepared your skin before applying gradual tan, and how well you care for your new glow.
Applying too much product too quickly can result in streaking, patchiness, or an unnatural orange colour. Instead, stick to one application per day and build up your tan gradually over time.
If you fake tan before bed and shower in the morning, you probably wake to orange-tinged sheets, unless you sleep on a large, dark coloured towel. Applying the tan earlier in the day will give the tan time to absorb and prevent it discolouring your linen.
Gradual Tan Tips
To Shave Or Not To Shave? - If you're a shaver, we always recommend shaving prior to tanning.
Recommended Tools and Accessories: Applicator Mitt: Gradual tan can generally be applied by hand, but you can also use a mitt to ensure smooth and streak-free application while protecting your hands. Instant self-tanners usually require the use of a mitt - be sure to read the instructions on the product packaging.
The beauty of using a gradual tanner is the freedom it gives you to bespoke your glow. One layer provides a light, natural-looking tan, but you can build up over the course of a few days to deepen the results. Experiment with how much you apply to find out which amount of tan gives you your perfect desired glow.
For the ultimate glow, use a Body Exfoliator 24 hours before applying self tanner to create the perfect smooth base for your tan. Then, 2 to 3 hours before tanning, treat your skin to a Tan Enhancing Body Moisturiser, paying particular attention to dry areas, such as knees, elbows and hands.
Apply your tan
The best time to self tan your face is in the evening, as it allows the product to develop overnight. Consider it a part of your evening skincare routine. Start by cleansing the skin and removing all traces of makeup. Next, lightly moisturize around your nostrils and other dry spots.
When deciding between gradual and instant self-tanners, it's important to consider your skin type, your lifestyle, and how quickly you want to achieve your desired tan. Gradual tanners allow for a more natural, buildable tan, while instant tanners offer faster, more dramatic results.
But Wong says it's unlikely that any skin aging effect would be pronounced. "The human studies so far have found that DHA mostly reacts in the top layers of the skin, which are dead. In skin aging, the concern is excessive free radicals forming deeper in the dermal layers of skin where collagen and elastin are."
Make Sure Skin Is Completely Dry
Most experts recommend showering before applying self-tanner as this is the best way to ensure skin is clean and free of any oils or products that could interfere. But it's important not to rush into tanning straight away.
The initial development of your gradual tan will take place over the first 2–4 hours after application, so you should avoid showering during this initial period to allow your tan to develop properly. After this, showering every day should not make your tan slower to develop.
Gradual formulations can be applied every day like your daily moisturizer to maintain hydration and glow. How long does it take to develop/do they need to be rinsed off? Our gradual tanners develop over 4-6 hours.
Using a mitt is a popular choice for applying self-tanner because it helps to distribute the product evenly and prevent streaks.
To avoid streaky knees, elbows, ankles and knuckles, be sure to bend when you are applying the product to those areas. I would recommend using your self-tanning product sparingly on the tops of your hands and feet. I typically do those parts last and will just use whatever is left on the mitt.