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The summer solstice is the Super Bowl for me. I was born in summer and my name literally means “sun”. Thaw when it gets warm. I enjoy outdoor dining, summer clothing, and scents of coconut and vanilla (my signature summer scents). As a Black woman, I grew up surrounded by a flood of beauty standards that valued light skin and told me to stay out of the sun. But for years I left my skin exposed to the sun in search of summer shade. I always feel the most myself after a day in the sun.
Ten years later, I’m paying the price for my dedication with countless bottles of sunscreen and piles of protective gear. I still enjoy a healthy amount of sunlight exposure, but my serotonin is dependent on sunlight. Finding the best self-tanner turned out to be the sun-obsessed solution for me. Fortunately, over the past few years the self-tanner industry has transformed into a certified skin care category. From skin-first formulas to high-end options for all skin tones, sunless tanners are a staple for glowing skin year-round.
How to choose the best self-tanner
Raise your hand if you’ve ever been literally burned by self-tanner. Thankfully, gemstones are plentiful these days. To find the best self-tanner, we consulted experts. First, Sabrina Johnsonspray tan stylist, esthetician, and ashley mcnabbMakeup Artist, Founder Ashley McNab’s artistryshare everything you need to know about the best self-tanners.
Best ingredients for self tanner
To maintain your glow, avoid anything that dries your skin and ruins your skin prep. “Avoid self-tanners with harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates,” advises Johnson. Alcohol, which is present in many quick-drying formulas, can also be harmful, as it can worsen dryness and dehydration.
Look for the following ingredients in your self-tanner.
- Antioxidants: (niacinamide, resveratrol, coenzyme Q10, ferulic acid, copper, zinc, selenium)
- hyaluronic acid
- glycerin
- aloe vera
- Vitamins A, C, E
What to do before applying self-tanner
“The biggest mistake you can make when using self-tanner is not preparing your skin,” says Johnson. Here are some steps to prepare your skin for the best results with self-tanner.
Wash the entire body with a dry brush. Yes, dry brushing stimulates circulation and lymphatic drainage, but it’s also valuable for simply exfoliating. Just make wide strokes towards the heart. Gentle pressure and slow movements are best.
Do a body scrub. According to Johnson, “skipping exfoliation can result in uneven application or patchiness. Avoid chemical exfoliants like AHAs, BHAs, and retinols before and after tanning, as they will cause your tan to fade faster.” Buffing away excess dead skin cells with a gentle body scrub will prolong the effect.
Please take a full shower. Taking a luxurious shower may feel like a luxury, but it’s essential before you apply your self-tan. The best at-home self-tanning starts in the shower, as you won’t be able to shower for 8-12 hours after application. The focus is on hydrating your skin with nourishing ingredients. To remove excess dead skin, escar body plane A light body oil that deeply removes dead skin cells while locking in moisture.
Moisturizes. After you’re all done in the shower, dry off and use a deep moisturizing lotion all over your body. Make sure to keep your hands (and between your fingers), feet, ankles, knees, and elbows well-hydrated.
Prepare your face. Just like the body, a smooth canvas increases ease of painting. Use a gentle (physical!) exfoliant and follow the instructions on your chosen self-tanner to deeply moisturize.
Moisturizes from inside to outside. This is the key to maintaining an even tan for as long as possible. Consider prioritizing naturally hydrating fruits and vegetables, trying a DIY spa water, or adding electrolytes to your H20.
How to apply sunless tanner
Applying self-tanner at home can be scary, but a few tips and tricks can help you achieve an even, natural-looking glow that matches your skin tone. McNab shares her top tips for maintaining flawless, tanned skin.
Start small. It’s always wise to test a product on a small area of your skin before applying it all over your body to see if you like the color.
Let’s try our own way. Whether applying by hand or using gloves, apply in small portions. Blend in circular motions, paying special attention to areas like ankles, toes, knees, and elbows, as they can be difficult to blend.
Don’t forget SPF! Some people apply self-tanner but forget to add extra sunscreen. Don’t make that mistake.
Best self tanners tested and reviewed
Thankfully, finding the right self-tanner has never been easier, and you don’t have to risk getting orange in the process. “Each product has different benefits, so consider your skin type, desired results, and skin sensitivity when choosing a self-tanner,” says Johnson.
If you’re standing in the self-tanner aisle or switching between product types, consider this your definitive guide to the best self-tanners.
takeout
Finding the right self-tanner for you is a bit like finding the right foundation. It takes some trial and error, but once you get there you’ll wonder how you ever did without it. Whether you’re working your way up to a step-by-step formula or aiming for a fully bronzed look, the most important thing is preparation. If you do it right, the rest is easy. Summer skin, lined up.
This post was last updated on May 12, 2026 with new insights..
Source: Camille Styles – camillestyles.com
