How To Apply Self-Tanner

Pat your body dry. Make sure your skin is not still moist and that the room is not steamy or humid.

Begin applying the self-tanner, starting at the tops of your feet and working up. Use a circular motion to rub it into the skin, and apply sparingly in the places you took care to exfoliate well, since these areas often end up darker.

Keep an eye on the clock—after five minutes, stop applying and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and a nail brush to prevent the dreaded orange palms.

Continue applying up to your neck, taking care not to miss any areas—like the back of your hands, the inside of your wrists, and the sides of your torso—and to stop every five minutes and wash your hands.

Apply tanner sparingly to your neck and face, especially at your hairline.

When you’re all done, wash your hands again. Pay special attention to under your fingernails and the sides of your palms.

Wait as long as you can—at least 15 minutes or more if possible—before dressing to let your skin absorb the lotion. Try to remain standing during this time with your arms straight and away from your torso to avoid creased tan lines.

Once your skin is completely dry, put on loose-fitting, dark-colored clothing.

Wait 2 to 4 hours for the color to develop. You’ll then be able to see if you have any streaks or missed spots.

If you have a streak, gently buff that area of your skin with a washcloth or a pumice stone. You can also try erasing the streak with an astringent pad.

To prolong your glorious bronze, be sure to use an alcohol-free body wash in the shower, because alcohol can cause the color to fade.