Want that just-back-from-holiday glow without the flights, cost, or sun damage?

Fake it!

Self-tan is the safest way to get that sun-kissed look. No travel, no burns, no weird tan lines - just a natural-looking colour. And it’s super easy!

Here’s a quick guide to how self tan works and the best self tan for you. 

How self tan works

If you’re new to self-tanning, there are a few things to get your head around. First, the options are vast: lotions, foams, sprays, gels, drops, mists, wipes, and gradual tanners. Each has its own texture and application style, but they all use a tanning ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). When DHA is applied to the skin, it reacts with skin proteins and creates brown pigments called melanoidins, giving the skin a tanned appearance. 

Instant tanners like Bondi Sands 1 Hour Express Self Tanning Foam contain more DHA, so they  give you a noticeable colour within a short period of time. Gradual tanners such as Le Tan Coconut Gradual Tan Lotion use less DHA, so the colour builds slowly over several applications. These are ideal if you’re new to tanning or if you’re looking for a more subtle result. 

Is tanning lotion safe for skin?

In most cases, self-tanning products are safe and well-tolerated. However, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test before slathering your whole body!

How long does self-tan usually last?

This depends on the product, but most self-tans last around five to seven days. The right skin preparation and maintenance (and the right product!) can help prolong your colour. 

Tip: It’s best NOT to apply your tan the day of a special event! Give your skin at least 48 hours to take on the colour.

Tip 2: Avoid self-tanning if you have any broken skin, rashes, or other issues, or if you’re allergic to any of the ingredients. 

Which self tan works best?

The best self tan for you is the one that suits your skin! Some brands like Bondi Sands come with a guide colour to help you match the product shade to your natural skin tone. 

Step 1: Figure out what tan will work for your skin:

• Fair skin: Light to medium shades will help produce a more natural look. For your face, mix a small amount of tanning product with your daily moisturiser. This softens the effect and helps you control the depth of colour. Or go for a gradual tan designed specifically for the face, like Bondi Sands Gradual Tan Face Lotion.

• Medium/olive skin: Darker shades work well for medium skin types. Use plenty of moisturiser to help get that smooth finish.

• Dark skin: Ultra-dark tanning shades can give you a naturally bronzed glow with depth. As usual, moisturise!
  
  

Tip 3: if you’re a total newbie to self-tanning, your safest bet is a gradual tanner. It allows you to control the intensity of your tan by building color with each application. Start low and work your way up.

Step 2: Get a tanning mitt

Tanning mitts like SIMPLY ESS Tanning Mitt are made with ultra-soft material and are designed to help you to blend the product evenly into your skin without streaks or patches. It also saves your hands (and everything you touch) from stains! 

Step 3: Remove hair 

Getting rid of body hair can also help ensure your tan is smooth and even. It’s best to wait at least 24 hours after waxing or shaving if your skin feels sensitive.

Step 4: Exfoliate

Exfoliating helps to create a nice clean canvas for an even tan and longer-lasting results. Dead skin cells can absorb the tanning product unevenly, creating a patchy or streaky appearance. Slough away dry, flaky skin with a body scrub, exfoliating mitt, or dry brush. 

Step 5: Moisturise

Moisturising helps to hydrate and smooth your skin, so the tanning product applies evenly and lasts longer. Avoid oil-based moisturisers right before tanning, as they can hinder absorption. It’s also best to moisturise 24-48 hours before tanning, not immediately before. 

And don’t forget to hydrate from within! Adding just 20ml of Lifestream Biogenic Aloe Vera Juice to your daily menu (great in smoothies!) can support healthy skin and digestive function from the inside out.

Applying your self-tan

Be sure to read the instruction guide that comes with the product. Some products may vary slightly. Be sure to apply in natural light for better visibility!

1. Clean and dry your skin. Don't apply deodorant or perfume.

2. Apply the product in sections rather than slathering it on anywhere. Start with your arms, move to your legs, then your torso. 

3. With your tanning mitt, use circular motions to massage the product into your skin. 

4. Apply less product to your ankles, knees, and elbows: these areas absorb more product than the rest of your skin (and you don’t want orange knees!)

5. Blend, blend, blend - especially at your wrists to your hands, and your ankles to your feet.

6. Once you’re done, allow at least 10 minutes for your skin to dry before getting dressed. Avoid tight clothing or sweaty activities for the next few hours. 

7. Wait at least 6 hours (or as directed on the product) before showering to allow the tan to develop. Don’t use any cleansers until the next day, and don’t use super hot water. 

Maintaining your tan

Hydration is key! Use a rich, oil-free body lotion every day, especially after showering. Just remember to avoid any skincare products that contain exfoliating acids, retinol, or mineral oil, as they may increase your sensitivity to the sun and the risk of sunburn.

Continue to exfoliate every few days to help keep your tan looking even. 

Note: most self-tanning products provide very low sun protection factor (SPF) or none at all. Sunburn won’t do your tan (or your skin!) any favours, so don’t forget to slip, slop, slap every day. 

When to reapply your tan 

Topping up your tan depends on what product you’re using, and what shade you’re going for. 

If you're using a gradual tanning product, you might reapply every day until
you get the shade you want. You can then maintain it by reapplying every few days. 

Got questions? Just chat with our friendly Bargain Chemist staff. We love hearing from you!