Everyone loves a good glowing tanned complexion, and that, all year round. That’s why fake tans are still firmly established in our skincare routines. Nevertheless, achieving a beautiful and natural result can be tricky to master with self-tanners, and a single mistake can leave you with an uneven or streaked tan. Luckily, there are a few simple tips and tricks to help you look like a golden goddess while avoiding accidents.

Step 1. EXFOLIATE!!!

NO ONE wants a patchy uneven tan, so scrub off that dead skin! It's the most well-known rule in the book. You need to exfoliate your body from head to toe before applying fake tan in order to get the best results. This prevents the tanning spots and patches around dry skin, as the exfoliator will polish away any dead skin cells.

We love using the That’So Tan Extender Scrub because it gently cleanses, eliminates dead cells and unclogs the pores for the perfect application.

 

Pro Tip: Pay special attention to feet, elbows and other areas that tend to be rough and dry. Dry skin will over-absorb the self-tanner and will show up dark, so be sure to gently buff skin before applying product.

Step 2. Shave That Hair (but not right before!!!)

 

If you know when you’ll be tanning, it’s always good to have a clean silky base. Shaving exfoliates the skin, leaving it supple and ready for bronzing, so it should be done before self-tanner is applied, just not right before since shaving can open pores and create cuts. But if you don’t want to shave and keep your leg hair, that’s totally fine! You do you babe. Thus, to prevent irritation, schedule shaving or waxing at least a few hours before you plan to apply tanner to give your skin a chance to recuperate after hair removal and will allow the pores to close.

 

Step 3. Don’t Flake, Hydrate!

 

It’s important to always moisturize your skin, but especially in the days before applying sunless tanner. To make sure that everything goes on smoothly and neatly, apply a good moisturizing cream and focus on areas that tend to be drier than the rest of your body, such as your elbows, knees, and ankles. However, wait a good 30 minutes before directly applying your sunless tanner. If you don’t, there is a high possibility that your self-tanner could go on unevenly. 

 

Step 4. Use The Right Applicator 

Now that you’re ready to apply your self-tanner, know what you’re getting into. If you don’t use the right method of application, all the work you’ve put in could be jeopardized. Here’s how to correctly apply your self-tanning:

Mousse: That'so GLAM Body Dark

Tanning mitts not only effectively remove old tans, but they also make the application process 10x easier. Compared to the hand, the mitt has a much larger surface area, which speeds up the application process and makes it much easier to reach the back. In addition, they protect your hands who unfortunately often end-up looking orange if not protected.  For mitt application, apply a small amount of tanner and apply it over the entire body. When on your face, gently tap the mitt over your skin with your eyes and mouth closed. See the Double Face Tanning Mitt for the perfect application. 

Spray: That'so On The Go Dark

For any spray-based self-tanner, spray directly on the skin in a continuous and uniform motion, keeping the spray about 30 cm from the skin. Allow to dry without rubbing or use a hair dryer for faster results. 

Pro Tip: The product can also be sprayed on a glove and then applied to the skin.

 

You're now ready to get the most perfect tan this summer!