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Self-Tan & Glow Essentials
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items These are the products I swear by for a natural bronzed glow. No orange, no streaks, just healthy-looking skin all year long. I’ve tried sooo many self-tanners over the last 10 years, and these are the ones I actually repurchase. Basically, my tannin...
Sections
5
Prep (Smooth Base = Best Tan)
My Favorite Self Tanners
Application Tools
Aftercare
Removal
Prep (Smooth Base = Best Tan)
The most important part of self-tanning comes before you apply. A good base = a good tan. These products completely changed the way my self tan looks and lasts.
My holy grail mitt — exfoliates and takes off stubborn old tan. I literally can’t self tan without it.
Bronze Tan Self Tanner Remover & Exfoliating Glove
Double duty exfoliator (AHA + BHA + pumice) that smooths bumps and unclogs pores. Your tan goes on so much more even.
Naturium KP Body Scrub & Mask for Keratosis Pilaris
The body wash you use matters! This one is gentle, moisturizing, and won’t mess with your tan.
Cetaphil Moisturizing Relief Body Wash 20oz
My OG lotion. Keeps dry spots soft so tan doesn’t cling. I like to apply the night before tanning day.
NIVEA Essentially Enriched Body Lotion 16.9oz (2 Pack)
My Favorite Self Tanners
I’ve been self-tanning for a decade and have tried probably every formula. These are my holy grails — the ones I always come back to.
My #1 fave. Perfect undertone (not too green, not too red). Lasts forever and fades like a dream.
Loving Tan Deluxe Ultra Dark Tanning Mousse 4oz
Super dark but natural, with a tropical scent that makes tanning less of a chore.
Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Mousse
Smells amazing, applies like silk, and gives a gorgeous olive-toned tan. A little goes a long way.
Ultra Dark Tanning Mousse 7oz - Vegan, USA
Budget-friendly and express (1 hr!). Perfect if you hate sleeping in your tan.
Tanologist Extra Dark Self Tan Mousse 6.76oz
My go-to for face — blends easily and isn’t harsh. Bonus: has a guide color so no scary streaks.
Loving Tan Deluxe Face Self Tanner Dark 1.6oz
Application Tools
These tools make all the difference between a streaky mess and a flawless glow.
My forever mitt. No thumb hole, which makes it so much easier to apply without weird streaks.
Bondi Sands Self-Tanning Mitt - Reusable Glove
Game-changer if you live alone (or don’t want to beg your roommate). Finally, an even back tan!
b.tan Back Self Tanning Applicator Mitt
Hands and feet = hardest part of tanning. This brush makes blending foolproof.
Tanologist Blending Brush for Tanning Mousse
Best for face application. Dense bristles = streak-free finish.
Kabuki Self Tanning Brush - Soft, Streak-Free
Aftercare
Aftercare is everything if you want your glow to last. These are my essentials for stretching my tan an extra week.
For my white-sheet girlies — this is non-negotiable. I even travel with it.
Tan Fan Self Tan Sleep Sac Open Side Top Sheet
A gradual lotion that boosts your tan as it fades. Perfect vacation hack.
Peta Jane Travel Self-Tanning Lotion 3.4oz
Lightweight, fragrance-free, and keeps skin hydrated without stripping tan.
Aveeno Sheer Hydration Fragrance-Free Lotion 18oz
Removal
When it’s time to reset, removal can be a pain — but not with this.
My holy grail for stubborn spots. Works in one minute (seriously).
Rose & Caramel Purity Excel 60s Tan Remover