How To Avoid The Smell From Self Tanner
If there is absolutely one beauty/skin rule I swear by, it’s protecting my skin from the sun. I refuse to go a day without applying (and reapplying) sunscreen while wearing a giant sun visor, potentially driving gloves, and being mindful of the amount of time I spend in the sun (yes, I am over the top about it). That said, I am still human and absolutely crave the glow of a sun-kissed tan (just minus the sun). Thankfully, self-tanners have come a long way, offering perfectly bronzed skin without UV damage (if you haven’t already, check out my Tanning Routine Blog for my go-to products and techniques).
But let’s talk about the one downside to self-tanning: the smell.
If you’ve ever applied self-tanner and noticed an odd, slightly musty scent developing, you’re not alone. That smell is actually a byproduct of DHA (dihydroxyacetone), the ingredient responsible for darkening the skin. When DHA reacts with the proteins in your skin, it creates that beautiful tan—but also releases an (coughUNFORTUNATEcough) odor in the process.
The good news? You don’t have to put up with the smell. Here are my favorite tricks to keep your glow intact while keeping that self-tanner scent far away.
Step 1:
A little obvious, but to start, apply a self tanner of your choice. For my face I do really enjoy the Coola Face Drops, but I mainly just use Ciele’s Bronzing Drops (it provides the best warmth to the face AND have SPF). As for my body, I will pretty much go to my grave saying that Lux Unfiltered has an unbeatable tanning lotion. Believe me when I say I have tried a ton, but theirs is the only one that doesn’t streak, it gives an even finish, and I just love the color it provides.
Step 2:
The next morning when the weird underarm odor has kicked in, apply a benzoyl peroxide cleanser of your choice to your armpit area. This ingredient is typically found in acne cleansers, but it’s quite literally a secret weapon for breaking down the compounds that cause odor after self-tanning. Two of my favorites are Jan Marini Benzoyl Peroxide and Naturium Benzoyl Peroxide Cream Cleanser. Gently rub it in and then leave as is for about 60 seconds. The cleanser needs a minimum of 60 seconds to activate, so don’t cut it short!
Step 3:
While the cleanser sits, feel free to continue your facial skin routine, brush your teeth, or truly anything else! Once you have waited a few moments, remove the cleanser gently and dab the armpit area dry!
Step 4:
Apply a deodorant like normal and enjoy your tan!
Take a peek at my recent video on avoiding the smell of self-tanner for a visual step-by-step. I hope this helps! Stay tuned for more tips & tricks coming soon. For now, follow me on Tik Tok, Instagram, and Pinterest for your daily dose of beauty, skin, & hair content!
