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.
Step 2: Reach for your gradual tan
Apply your chosen gradual tanning moisturiser 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.
This is a question many people ponder, and the answer is yes, you can. Fake tanning and sun tanning both alter the colour of your skin, but they do so in different ways. Most self-tanners use an active tanning ingredient called dihydroxyacetone, or DHA.
Ensure your skin is well moisturised always. Every time you get out of the shower or swim, apply lotion. If you have dry patches, then the tan will stick to these and go much darker. Good skin prep - get your skin well hydrated a week before and continue to moisturise during your tan.
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.
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."
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.
You can shave after tanning without removing all your newfound colour. Just make sure you wait at least 8 hours, so your tan has had time to develop. Then shave with gentle pressure, using a brand-new razor and an oil-free wash or shaving foam that won't break down your faux glow.
AFTER THE TAN
Wear dark loose clothing; tight clothing or underwear may cause marks. Wear loose fitting shoes.
What sets gradual tanning lotions apart is that they use far less DHA than traditional self-tan, and deliver it in a moisturiser product that doesn't need to be washed off.
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.
You should choose a gradual self tanner if you prefer a more natural, buildable tan and want to control the intensity of your color over time. Gradual tanners are perfect for people who enjoy daily skincare routines and want a more subtle glow that doesn't appear all at once.
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.
Exfoliate
Use exfoliating mitts, loofah, or washcloth and gently rub your skin in circular motions to loosen the tan and exfoliate. Remove dead skin cells and remaining self-tanning residue with Clarins Exfoliating Body Scrub and apply Clarins Moisture-Rich Body Lotion for maximum nourishment and hydration.
Top tip, you're going to need a good Tanning Mitt. This is not only going to seamlessly apply the product to the skin, but will keep your hands completely stain free. Apply a generous amount of product to the middle of the mitt and buff the product into the skin using circular motions.
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.
“What's great about in-shower and pre-shower gradual tans is once you have applied and finished your shower nothing can damage your gradual tan from developing.” According to Evans, you can apply gradual tanner every day until you are at your desired shade.
“Fake tanning is safer than using sun beds or sunbathing which has the risk of sunburns and premature photo ageing and risk of developing skin cancer in the future,” says Dr Zokaie.
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.
Lastly, while water won't wash away your gradual tan, it may dry out your skin (which is the next worst thing). To prevent your skin from flaking and making your gradual tan patchy, make sure to moisturise straight after you shower.
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.
Q1: Will My Fake Tan Look Better After I Shower? A: Yes! Showering helps remove excess bronzer and allows the DHA to continue developing. Skin appears cleaner and more radiant after a proper rinse.