My Self Tanning Tips & Favorite Products
As a Derm PA, you can probably guess how happy I am that the focus has shifted to fake baking instead of the real thing. There are few things that make my heart sink quite like sunbathing or tanning beds. Do they give you short-term color? Sure. But please believe me when I say that it is about the worst thing you can do for your skin.
That said, I’m a huge fan of self-tanning. I’ve been doing it for years because a good glow instantly makes your skin look brighter, smoother, and (let’s be honest) even a little more toned.
It’s a win win win.
Below, I’m breaking down my favorite products and the simple steps I follow for a streak-free, believable tan.
My Go-To Self-Tanning Products
For the body:
My absolute favorite is the Lux Unfiltered N°32 Hydrating Self-Tanning Cream. It gives the most natural, buildable tan without that orange undertone or strong scent. I treat it like a body lotion after showering and drying off — applying it everywhere evenly, then washing my hands thoroughly afterward. I’ll use it daily until I reach my desired shade, and then about twice a week for upkeep. I’ve tried a ton of tanning creams (trust me), but nothing like this one!
If I want something deeper or faster before an event or trip, I’ll use Lux Unfiltered’s N°36 Express Sculpting Mousse. I apply it with a tanning mitt to get an even, streak-free finish (and yes, the mitt really does make all the difference). Depending on how bronzed I want to look, I’ll reapply two or three nights in a row — it layers so well, without patchiness.
For the face:
For my face, I usually skip traditional self-tanner formulas and instead use Ciele Bronzing Drops mixed into my tinted foundation. It gives such a good finish AND they contain spf, so you really can’t beat it. Occasionally, if I want a more noticeable tan, I’ll use Lux Unfiltered’s N°12 Bronzing Face Drops — just a few drops mixed into my nighttime moisturizer.
My Best Tips Self Tanning
Here’s what’s worked for me consistently:
Start with clean, exfoliated skin. I will always use a salicylic acid wash in the shower for a gentle exfoliation, and then continue in with a gentle cleanser as my second wash.
Apply on completely dry skin. After showering, I wait a few minutes until my skin is 100% dry before applying any tanning product. Even a little moisture can make the color grab unevenly.
Moisturize strategically. Apply a very thin layer of lotion (or petroleum jelly) to your elbows, knees, wrists, and between your fingers and toes before tanning. This prevents those areas from soaking up too much color.
Use a mitt — always. I apply all body tanning products with a tanning mitt to ensure an even application. It also keeps your hands from staining, which is maybe the most desirable variable to them.
Clean up edges immediately. Wipe your cuticles, nails, and brows with a damp cloth or makeup wipe right after applying. It keeps your tan looking fresh.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. In the days after tanning, I make sure to keep my skin moisturized to help the color fade evenly and last longer.
If you’re using exfoliating acids or retinoids, they’ll make your facial tan fade faster — which is why I love using bronzing drops daily to keep a consistent glow without buildup.
