I’ve been self tanning a lot more now that it’s warming up, so I thought I’d share some of my self tanning tips and favorite products with you! I’m also sharing a little demo on my Instagram stories on how I apply, as well as how I avoid streaks in certain areas. 

EXFOLIATE. I cannot stress this enough! Exfoliation is so important in removing dead skin cells so your self tanner won’t apply streaky! I’ve been using Necessaire The Body Exfoliator because it’s not too harsh. Don’t skip this step!

SHAVE. Next, I’ll shave using my Billie razor, if applicable to wear I’m applying. Again, I want my skin super smooth so my self tanner applies as best as possible! Billie has been the best razor for me thus far because I get a super smooth result. I also love their shaving cream because it’s hydrating and makes the area I’m shaving even smoother. Billie is only $9 a month for 4 cartridges, too! Which is NUTS for the cost of a quality razor! You have the ability to adjust your subscription too, depending on how often you shave (every day for my Italian self!). I love their travel case for it as well. I also love their body wash!

SELF TANNER. Now it’s time to tan! The two types of self tanners I use are both lotions, so I don’t apply lotion prior. I’ve found this works fine for me! I really love the Beauty by Earth self tanner because of it’s natural ingredients and how well it applies. I RARELY get streaks. I also love the Isle of Paradise Body Butter. This tan is a little lighter than the Beauty by Earth, and I usually apply 2 days in a row to achieve the color I want. 

Here’s how I apply:

FIRST, I apply using my HANDS (I really don’t like using the tanning mitt….I just feel it doesn’t apply as well!) first, wherever I want to tan. I make sure to apply generously, so I don’t miss a spot! I also make sure to rub in well.

THEN, I WASH MY HANDS. Carefully! This is very important, or you’ll end up with orange hands.

LAST, I use a makeup brush to apply more self tanner to the backs of my hands and wrists. I squeeze a little on a tissue or paper towel, dip the brush into the tanner and then lightly brush it on the back of my hands and wrists. This has worked the best for me in applying it to my hands. And, since I used a brush, I don’t need to wash my hands after! I try to go as long as possible without washing my hands (which is hard because that’s all I do, haha).

Usually I’ll tan in the morning, and wash it off before bed so it has a good amount of time to do it’s thing!

MOISTURIZE. I’m big on moisturizing daily to keep my skin hydrated, but I also feel it helps the tan last longer! I won’t apply moisturizer until after I shower hours after I apply tanner. I love First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream because it’s super hydrating.

If I apply my tanner at night, I’ll wear loose clothing to bed. If I apply during the day, I’ll try to wear dark clothing that won’t stain. I find these products don’t stain as much as others I’ve tried, but it’s still a possibility! I’ll do this about once a week to keep a little glow.

I hope that helps when applying your self tanner! I’m linking everything below for you!