I never used to be a big self-tanner until recently. Prior to quarantine, I would save self-tanning for special occasions and big events, but with so much time on my hands, I decided to incorporate self-tanning into my self care routine weekly. I used to think that I didn’t have time for it, but it is truly not that time-consuming, is easy when used correctly, and has the added benefit of giving me so much more confidence! The little bit of time and effort it takes to apply the self-tan is so worth it and is honestly pretty effortless with my self-tanning must-have’s.
TANNING LOTION | TANNING LOTION WITH MITT SET INCLUDED | MIT SET | LOVING TAN MOUSE | TANNING DROPS FOR THE FACE | RAZOR | BACK APPLICATOR | ST. TROPEZ EXPRESS TANNING MOUSE
TANNING LOTION | I love this tanning lotion because it not only performs extremely well with no streaks and gives a nice dark tan, but it is also made with natural ingredients. I typically use this formula more often than the mouse, because it is less time consuming for busy days. It can, however be a bit more difficult to apply because it does not contain a color guide- meaning the lotion goes on clear and smooth, so there is no way see missed spots.
Application Tips: Exfoliate and shave as you would prior to using any self tanner (more details on this below). Make sure to use a GENEROUS amount of product! With a lot of product to rub in you are way less likely to have errors or streaks. Oh and although this product is lotion, I do still recommend using a “regular” lotion on all dry areas of your skin (ankles, feet, hands, writs, knees, armpits) prior to application. You can purchase the tanning lotion, the mitt, and the exfoliating mitt in a set, HERE.
LOVING TAN MOUSE | I love to use this mouse when I have a bit more natural color to my skin. It has a little more of a red undertone, so I find it doesn’t look very good on my very pale winter skin. It applies easily, creates a pretty and dark tan, and does not streak!
Application Tips: Exfoliate, apply lotion to dry areas of your skin, and work in sections with the mitt. I use one to three pumps, depending on the limb or section. Make sure to apply the tanner to your arms last! Avoid getting tanner on your palms.
ST. TROPEZ EXPRESS MOUSE | The color of this mouse is much more suitable for my skin personally when I am a bit more pale. It has more an olive undertone and does not get quite as dark as the Loving Tan Mouse, so it compliments a light complexion perfectly.
Application Tips: This product does not streak, but it does take a bit more time to develop than the bottle states. I usually wear it for 8 hours. Refer to the Loving Tan application techniques above for more info on application.
ISLE OF PARADISE SELF TANNING FACE DROPS | I used to use the Tan Luxe face drops, but decided to try these because they have cleaner ingredients and I am so glad I did. I love that the consistency of these is more gel like, it doesn’t streak, and the color is very natural.
Application Tips: I mix 1-2 drops of the drops with my moisturizer and then apply them to my face after my serums and eye creams. On occasion, I exfoliate lightly between application with my Clarisonic Brush.
EXFOLIATING MITT & RAZOR | Prior to using any tanning product, it is so important to exfoliate all of the dead skin away. I do this by not only using my Beauty By Earth Exfoliating Mitt with my body wash in the shower, but by shaving. I used to use these Coconut Sugar Cubes I love, but I realized they leave a residue on the skin for moisture so they are best to use between self-tanning. Th exfoliating mitt is perfect for getting rid of dead skin because it is rough, easy to use, and does not allow left over residue to sit on the skin. I also love that it comes in a set with the mitt applicator.
TANNING MITT | I have both the Beauty By Earth and the Loving Tan Mitt. They both work wonderfully because they are very similar. They are made nicely and the fabric is very soft. These are much better than other mitts I have used in the past (St. Tropez…).
BACK APPLICATOR | This back applicator is a life savor for someone who does not have an assistant (me!). It is easy to use and applies product beautifully!
I hope you enjoyed this post. Please comment any questions below! Happy Shopping!
Interested in seeing all of my favorite at home self care products, shop them HERE.