Achieving a flawless, sun-kissed glow with self-tanner requires proper preparation, application and aftercare. Here is the perfect guide to help you master how to apply self tanner using Coco & Eve’s range of products.
How to Apply Self-Tanner: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep your skin before self-tanning
Before you apply any self-tanner, a little preparation goes a long way.
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Exfoliate Thoroughly: Get in the shower and use our Resurfacing Body Gel Scrub or Deluxe Exfoliating Mitt to slough away dead skin cells. These help remove buildup and smooth skin texture using a blend of gentle acids and physical exfoliation. Focus on drier areas like elbows, knees and ankles to prevent dark patches.
- Shave First: For a smooth, streak-free surface, shave or wax at least 12–24 hours before tanning. This ensures an even base and prevents premature fading.
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Dry Completely: After showering, gently pat skin dry. Avoid applying tanner to damp skin, as it can lead to patchiness or streaks.
- Optional Glow Prep Tip: For extra hydration, apply a light, oil-free moisturizer to elbows, knees and ankles before tanning — these areas tend to absorb more product.
2. Choose the self-tanning product that best fits your routine:
- For a Classic Self-Tan: Use our Bali Bronzing Foam. Pump a small amount onto your tanning mitt and apply in long, sweeping motions to dry, moisturiser-free skin. Start with legs, then move up to torso and arms. Let it develop for at least 2 hours (or overnight for a deeper tan), then rinse off and pat skin dry.
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For a Fast, Express Tan: Similar to the foam, apply our Express Tanning Antioxidant Mousse evenly with a mitt to dry, moisturiser-free skin. Rinse after 1 hour for a natural glow, or leave longer for a deeper result. Your tan will continue to develop over 24 hours.
- For a Fast, Express Tan: Try our Express Tanning Antioxidant Mousse. Apply evenly with a mitt to dry, moisturiser-free skin. Rinse after 1 hour for a natural glow, or leave longer for a deeper result. Your tan will continue to develop over 24 hours.
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For a Gradual Glow: Smooth on our Sun-Kissed Gradual Tanning Lotion evenly over clean, dry skin using your hands. There’s no need to rinse — simply let it absorb and reapply daily until you reach your desired shade.
3. Aftercare & maintaining your tan
Now that you’ve achieved your glow, keep it looking flawless for longer.
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Avoid Moisture: For the first 4–6 hours, skip sweating, swimming, or showering. This allows your tan to fully develop and lock in color.
- Moisturize Daily: After your first rinse, apply moisturizer daily to maintain hydration and extend your tan’s life. Focus on drier areas to prevent uneven fading.
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Pat, Don’t Rub: When showering, gently pat your skin dry instead of rubbing — it helps preserve your tan’s smooth, even finish.
How to Apply Self Tanner to Your Back
Applying self-tanner to your back can be challenging. Using a Back Tan Applicator can help you reach all areas without assistance. Alternatively, you can slip your tanning mitt over a wooden spoon or ruler to extend your reach in a moment's notice if needed.
How to Apply Self Tanner to Your Face
For facial tanning, select a product designed for the delicate skin on your face:
- Bronzing Face Drops: Mix these drops with your moisturiser for a customisable tan.
- Antioxidant Face Tanning Micromist: Spray this fine mist evenly over your face for a gradual tan.
- Anti-Aging Tanning Serum: Apply this serum directly to your face for a youthful glow.
Ensure even coverage, including around the nose, lips, hairline and ears. Blend down into your neck for a seamless look. Wash your hands immediately after application to prevent staining.
How Do Self Tanners Work?
Self-tanners contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a simple carbohydrate that reacts with amino acids in the top layer of your skin. This reaction produces pigments called melanoidins, which gives your skin a tanned appearance. The process begins a couple of hours after application and can continue to develop for up to 72 hours, with the tan lasting between 3 to 10 days, depending on your skin’s natural exfoliation rate and your skincare routine.
Types of Self-Tanning Formulas
At Coco & Eve, we offer a variety of self-tanning products to suit different preferences and needs:
Conclusion
Achieving a natural, even tan at home is possible with the right products and techniques. By following this guide on how to apply self tanner and using Coco & Eve’s self-tanning range, you can enjoy a flawless glow year-round.
And here are some more tips on avoiding and fixing self-tanning mistakes.
Explore our full selection of tanning products to find the perfect match for your tanning needs.
FAQs About How to Self Tan
How do you self tan for beginners?
For beginners, it's best to start with proper skin preparation, apply the self-tanner in sections using a mitt and follow the product's recommended development time for an even, streak-free result.
Is it better to tan wet or dry?
It is always better to apply self-tanner to completely dry skin, as any moisture can cause streaks and an uneven finish.
Do I put lotion on before self-tanner?
No, you should not apply a regular moisturizing lotion to your entire body before self-tanner, but you can apply a very light layer to dry areas like elbows and knees to prevent them from getting too dark.
Do you fake tan before or after a shower?
You should apply fake tan after a shower, as showering helps to prep your skin and you need to wait several hours for the tan to develop before showering again.
Edited by: Iris
