Mistake #1: Not exfoliating. Exfoliation is one of the secrets behind a long lasting, streak-free self-tan. Why? Self-tanning formulas work by staining the surface layer of skin cells. Within this skin layer, there are many dead cells that will naturally slough off within a day or two — carrying your self-tan with them
Mistake #2: Not moisturizing regularly. Dry skin is "thirsty,” so it naturally soaks up any moisture — including sunless tanning lotions — that it can get. Drier patches of skin will turn out darker than well-hydrated areas, leaving behind a blotchy bronze.
Mistake #3: Not removing makeup. Before applying sunless tanner to the face, always cleanse thoroughly to ensure a natural-looking application. Remove all makeup with a cleanser or makeup remover. Some experts even recommend an extra step of using a toner to clear away any lingering impurities like makeup or oil.
Mistake #4: Selecting the wrong shade. Not all shades of self-tanner are created equal, and every skin tone demands a different color to achieve a natural look. For instance, a formula intended for medium-dark skin tones won’t look natural on fair-skinned individuals.
During application
Mistake #5: Over-applying to thick patches of skin. Thicker areas of the skin — like the ankles, elbows and knees — absorb more self-tanner, often developing a darker color than the rest of the body. This creates a blotchy, uneven color that looks unnatural.
Mistake #6: Using expired formulas. If you slather on self-tanner and achieve no results, it’s likely that the formula has expired. According to Shape, the shelf life of most sunless tanning products lasts about two years. So if you consider that the bottle probably sat in a warehouse or store shelf for several months before you bought it, your formula will probably expire less than two years to the date of purchase.
Mistake #7: Not allowing the product to dry. After you apply self-tanner, wait as long as possible before getting dressed or hopping into bed. Rubbing against any surface before the solution has dried can wipe away the color. In fact, most experts suggest waiting even longer than advised by the instructions in order to ensure optimal color.
Mistake #8: Missing those hard-to-reach places. When applying self-tanner, there’s nothing more frustrating — or awkward — than trying to achieve an even color on hard-to-reach areas like the upper back. But — whether you’re planning to bare your back in a bikini or a little black dress — don’t overlook an inch.
Mistake #9: Going too dark on the face. For a natural glow from head to toe, make sure to maintain a lighter color on the face. How dark is too dark? Julyne Derrick, About skin care guide, advises going only one shade darker than your natural skin tone.
Mistake #10: Applying color in the wrong places. When applying self-tanner, it’s easy to go overboard in an effort to ensure an even, all-over tan. But in order for the tan to look real, avoid spots that the sun doesn’t naturally hit — like the armpits, the palms of your hands and in between your fingers. Also, self-tanning formulas tend to collect along the hairline and within the cuticles of your nails, making these areas appear darker — and unnatural.
Mistake #11: Being rushed. Never rush when applying self-tanner. It’s important to slowly rub the product into the skin in a circular pattern, making sure that you evenly cover the entire surface of skin. Rushing results in streaks and uneven color. Also, if you’re applying self-tanner for a special event, always apply the night before so that you have time to correct any mistakes.
Mistake #12: Applying to wet skin. If your skin is even slightly wet, the self-tanner won't go on evenly, and you’ll end up with unsightly streaks.
Post-application
Mistake #13: Using exfoliating ingredients post-application. Once you’ve perfectly applied your sunless tanner, it’s essential to be aware of the everyday skin care ingredients that can compromise your glow. Avoid any products that contain retinol (or retinoids), alpha hydroxy acids or beta hydroxy acids. While these ingredients are great at exfoliating dead skin cells, they’ll carry away your faux tan, resulting in blotchy color or premature fading.
Mistake #14: Smelling like self-tanner. Many sunless tanning formulas come with a distinct odor that’ll give away your self-tan in a second. Because the main active ingredient that darkens skin — dihydroxyacetone — is to blame, it’s hard to find an effective formula without this aroma.
Mistake #15: Shaving after applying self-tanner. To create an even, streak-free glow, always apply self-tanner to skin that’s as smooth as possible. Because shaving exfoliates, doing so after you apply self-tanner causes uneven color and reduces the length of time that your tan will last.
With plenty of practice, your application techniques will surely improve over time. Also, don’t forget that self-tanner isn’t a substitute for sunscreen. If you plan on showing off your sunless tan at the beach, always use sunscreen (and any time you’re outdoors in general Rodial Skinny Beach SPF 15 Clear is a great choice for the body. It helps reduce cellulite and adds a natural sheen."
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