Using a dirty tanning mitt? Yikes. It’s time to break the habit—stat. Failing to care for beauty tools quickly leads to dirty grime and buildup, both on and off the skin. Good news—it’s easy to clean your self-tanning mitt. Here’s how to keep it fresh for flawless application every time!
How to Clean a Tanning Mitt
Keeping your mitt fresh is easier than you think. Follow these three quick steps to say goodbye to stubborn stains!
1. Soak Tanning Mitt in Warm Water
Avoid tossing your tanning mitt in the washing machine—it’ll lose its shape (or worse, fall apart). A quick hand wash is all it needs! For tough stains, spot treat with club soda before soaking your mitt in a bowl of warm water and gentle soap.
2. Air Dry Your Tanning Mitt
Gently squeeze out excess water and reshape your mitt while it’s still damp. Do not machine dry, iron, or bleach. Lay it flat and let it air dry for 24 hours.
3. Tan and Reuse
Regular washing prevents heavy stains from setting in. With proper care, a self tanning mitt should last six months. If you’re a more frequent self–tanner, consider replacing every 3–4 months.
Top Tips for Your Self–Tan Routine
A fresh tanning mitt = a flawless tan. Taking care of your tools ensures streak-free results and helps your products last longer. Get a sunkissed glow in no time with our simple advice, no vacation needed.
1. Slough Away Dead Skin
Want to self-tan? You’ve gotta exfoliate, ideally 2–3 days before bronzing. In the shower, massage a handful of Resurfacing Body Gel Scrub onto your skin for a deep cleanse and a fresh base. Packed with just the right ingredients, this essential gel scrub wipes away any evidence of existing self–tanner. Start fresh! Avoid discoloration by paying extra attention to dry areas, particularly the ankles, elbows, heels, and knees. Wash off with lukewarm water.
Remember: never do hair removal on the day of (or immediately after) self–tanning. Plan on getting that tweeze, wax, shave or thread somewhere between 12–24 hours in advance.
2. Apply Self–Tanner
Want that just-back-from-vacation glow? Our Bali Bronzing Foam is a fan-favorite for a natural-looking tan that firms and hydrates the skin. However, we know that self-tanning is personal! If you prefer a faster tan, our Express Tanning Antioxidant Mousse delivers a deep, beach-bronzed tan – rinse off in just 1 hour, while our Sun-Kissed Gradual Tanning Lotion builds color gradually. Not sure which one is for you? Check out our full comparison guide to find your perfect match!
The secret to a streak-free, flawless tan? Our custom, double-sided Soft Velvet Tanning Mitt. Made from 100% hypoallergenic, vegan and cruelty-free materials, it ensures an even application while keeping hands and palms stain-free. For precision on smaller areas like the ankles, wrists, and ears, our Kabuki Brush blends effortlessly with its dense yet ultra-soft bristles.
Apply to dry, product-free skin, using the mitt for larger areas and the brush for trickier spots. For even better coverage, our Back Tan Applicator is another must-have, creating easy access to difficult places like the back. Don’t miss our complete guide on hard–to–reach areas.
3. Even Out Your Complexion
Made a mistake? No worries—gentle cleansing wipes are here to save the day. If you need to spot correct, use a tanning mitt. Apply our Bali Bronzing Foam 3–4 hours before going to bed for best results. Wake up in the morning with a deep yet subtle, all-natural glow. Hello, gorgeous!
Your body is now bronze, but don’t forget the face. Our Antioxidant Face Tanning Micromist is our bestselling face tanner for a quick, hydrating glow with skincare benefits. However, if you prefer a customizable glow, our Bronzing Face Drops or Anti-Aging Tanning Serum might be the perfect fit. Want to see how they compare? Read our full guide on face tanners to find your best match!
4. Reuse and Repeat
Good faux tans usually last anywhere from 5–7 days, but results depend on self–care. To really extend your glow, keep showers short and sweet – as in under 2 minutes. Rather than using loofahs or sponges, opt for a gentle, hydrating body wash to cleanse your skin without stripping moisture. Just out of the shower, pat skin dry and lock in hydration with your favourite moisturizer to keep your glow intact.
Edited By: Iris
