Slathering on tanning drops or mousse remain the quickest – and safest – ways to get a sun-kissed glow, especially once when you’ve mastered how to apply fake tan for the most believable results.
The best fake tans themselves have come a long way in recent years, too, meaning achieving a natural-looking finish at home is easier than ever – you just need the right prep and a foolproof application technique, which is easier than it sounds. Promise.
And no matter the depth of colour you choose – from a soft golden hue to something deeper and more bronzed – or the type of formula you prefer, the secret to an elusive streak-free, long-lasting glow is all in how you prepare your skin beforehand and look after it afterwards.
So, we asked some of the top tanning experts to share their best tips – including a genius way to get more from your tanning mitt. From shaving and exfoliating, to knowing what to wear while your tan develops, we answer all your tanning questions for even results every single time.
Should I shave before tanning?
Whatever your hair removal method is, it’s always best to be silky smooth and hair-free right before you tan. Make sure you shave at least 24 hours prior to applying false tan to ensure the hair follicles have closed back up, therefore avoiding the speckled look.
Should I exfoliate before tanning?
You want to create the smoothest canvas possible, which is why it’s also important to exfoliate. “You need to blitz and buff away all evidence of your previous tan to ensure an even base so your new glow goes on beautifully and looks flawless”, says Carly Hobbs, Sienna X expert tanner. “Fail to do so and you could get patchy results, with some darker areas.”
If you’re reapplying your tan after your last application has faded but can’t quite shake those stubborn patches, celebrity tanner Jules Von Hep, offers this clever tip: “Go swimming, the chlorine will soften the tan, then take some exfoliating gloves and scrub in the shower.”
READ MORE: How to use exfoliating gloves properly.
Can I tan with perfume or deodorant on?
When applying false tan, your skin should be completely clean – and we mean really clean. Even just a hint of deodorant or perfume can cause disastrous results.
“Deodorant will go green as it reacts with the tan on contact, and while it doesn’t stay green, it’s not a good look”, says Carly. “If you are able to shower pre-tan, be brave and go for a cold rinse to encourage pores all over the skin to close so your tan goes on seamlessly.”
As for perfume, you should remove it and also avoid applying it post-tan as it can mess with your tan’s development. “I was once working with a client on Strictly Come Dancing and each week she’d come in on show day with a huge patch on her neck, it took us weeks to work out that immediately after her spray tan, she was spraying her neck with fragrance which was breaking the tan down as it developed”, shares Jules. “Do not do this! Spritz a hair mist if you need a scent.”
How long after moisturising can I fake tan?
For an even tan, you should keep your skin hydrated and nourished. However, it’s important to moisturise at least 24 hours before applying your chosen tan, as the moisturiser acts as a barrier, preventing the formula from accessing the skin.
When it’s time to tan, Carly recommends using a light body moisturiser on the following areas: elbows, knees, knuckles, between the fingers, inner wrists, ankles and toes. These areas are especially prone to build up and can end up looking a lot darker than the rest of your skin. A tan primer is best, as it acts as a barrier to stop the tan from catching.
How do I apply fake tan?
Step 1: Prep for fake tan
The secret to a natural-looking fake tan starts way before you apply the product itself. Taking the time to remove old tan, smooth skin and avoiding applying anything that could interrupt with the development process helps to prevent patchiness and helps you get a more even finish.
Step 2: Work from the legs upwards
“Work methodically from the legs upwards and take your time”, says Carly. When asked if a mitt was best, Jules replied, “Yes. A mitt protects the tan from absorbing into the hands but also helps evenly distribute the product.”
The only exception? “If you’re using tanning drops you can rub these in using your hands, just wash your palms with micellar water afterwards. But as a rule, I always use a mitt.”
Step 3: Apply self tan to the base of the mitt and fold it in half
A great way to make sure the formula is evenly distributed across the whole mitt is to administer it to the base of the mitt (where the heel of your hand is) and fold the mitt in half by closing your palm. This will also make each pump go even further.
Another top tip when applying fake tan to the backs of your hands and feet is to simply use any leftover residue left on the mitt to avoid unnatural looking build up on those areas.
How to avoid fake tan streaks
We know you’ve heard it before, but the one thing that really makes the biggest difference to the finished result is preparation. Streaky tan is usually caused by the product clinging to dry areas or developing unevenly on skin that hasn’t been exfoliated properly, which is why it’s vital to take time to smooth and hydrate skin before application.
Experts always recommend exfoliating at least 24 hours before applying tan, that way you are able to remove any lingering patches of old tan and it’ll help create an even base, too. Then, on the day you tan, keep skin clean and avoid deodorant, perfume or moisturiser (aside from a light layer on drier areas, like elbows, knees, ankles and knuckles), because they can interfere with the tan’s development.
Then, when you’re applying the tan itself, work methodically in sections using a mitt and blend carefully around hands and feet using any leftover product rather than a fresh pump. A little patience goes a long way, and building colour gradually and allowing the tan to develop fully before getting dressed or wet will mean the final result is smooth, natural and evenly bronzed.
What’s a great fake tan tip for beginners?
If you’re a tanning novice, the best way to apply self-tan is to choose a formula with a guide colour and stand in front of a mirror when applying. This will make sure you don’t miss any spots and it’s all blended in seamlessly.
When you think you’re done, twirl back and forth, checking the back of your knees and lift your arms above your head to ensure you didn’t miss the underside.
How can I make fake tan darker?
The best way to achieve a deeper tan is to choose a formula that is specifically created for deeper results. Some formulas offer you the chance to leave it on for longer in order to achieve a deeper tan (want a natural glow? Leave it on for one hour. Want a golden transformation? Leave it on for three.)
Another way to make your tan darker is to apply two layers of self-tan or to top your tan up the day after the initial application. However, this is probably best left to the more confident tanners among us.
How to apply fake tan to awkward areas
Areas like the hands, feet, face and back tend to cling to colour more easily, so it’s best to apply less product and build gradually. For hands and feet, use whatever residue is left on your tanning mitt rather than a fresh pump to avoid darker patches around knuckles and ankles.
On the face, a lighter application – ideally using tanning drops mixed with moisturiser – helps create a more natural-looking finish, while a back applicator can make it much easier to reach and blend harder-to-access areas evenly.
How do I apply fake tan to my face?
If you choose to tan your face using the same formula as the one applied to your body, both Jules and Carly agree that less is more. “Repeat after me, two coats on the body and one on the face”, says Jules.
Ideally, you should use products that are specifically formulated for the face, like this great option by Dior. “Mix your desired amount of drops in with your normal face moisturiser (the more you drop the deeper the glow – I advise 2-3 drops). Sweep moisturiser over your skin, massaging in upward motions, and down the neck to the décolletage.”
If you choose not to tan this area, you may want to switch your shade of foundation to match your tanned body, making sure to blend down the neck for a seamless transition.
How do I apply fake tan to my back?
You can forget the days of trying to stretch those hard-to-reach places with a mitt in an attempt to get an even tan on your back. These days, the best way to apply fake tan to your back is by using a fake tan back applicator like this one from Bondi Sands that comes with replacement pads so you can ensure a perfect application every time.
To use, simply extend the handle back until it locks into place, apply your fake tan product to either side of the applicator and start to apply the tan.
How long does fake tan take to dry?
False tan formulas can feel tacky on the skin for hours afterwards, however, they should be largely absorbed after as little as twenty minutes.
What should I wear after fake tan?
After applying fake tan or express tan, it’s best to stick to loose, comfortable clothing while the colour develops. Tight fabrics, underwired bras or anything that rubs against the skin can cause the tan to transfer or develop unevenly, so floaty dresses, oversized shirts or loose-fitting pyjamas are ideal.
Dark colours are also a safer choice while your tan develops, helping to avoid any visible transfer before your first rinse.
If you’re going for a professional spray tan, do not show up wearing skinny jeans, leggings, gladiator sandals or sports bras. “You want loose garments. My clients who work in fashion always wear jumpsuits,” says Jules.
How long after tanning can I shave?
Another important reason to shave pre-tan is because if you do it afterwards instead, you’re at risk of shaving away your tan as the blades tend to pick up any dead skin cells as well as hair. Carly also says to “avoid baths all together so you don’t soak your glow away”. Opt for showers instead.
How long after tanning can I moisturise?
If you want to maintain your glow and ensure an even fade, moisturising is a must. “A faux tan loves being hydrated, so treat it daily, if not twice daily,” says Carly.
Too time-poor to moisturise? “Use your tanning mitt to swipe it on at super speed. It’s especially handy on chilly mornings when moisturising is not the most fun.”
How do I make my tan last longer?
As well as moisturising, you can also top it up after a few days with a gradual tan if you really want to prolong your glow.
When is the best time to fake tan before an event?
According to James Harknett, who has fake tanned everyone from the Strictly stars to Mollie King, Harry Styles and the beauty editors at Glamour, you ideally want to fake tan a day or so before an event.
“If a client comes to me for an event then they normally book in a day or so before. With brides it’s always 48 hours before the ceremony,” he says. “This is because they will then have three warm showers on the tan – which gives them confidence that all the guide colour has left the skin, and nothing will transfer onto their clothes. I also love how a tan has settled with the skin by day two.”