If you’re like so many women and are over laying under the harsh sun for hours to get that golden glow, then you’re probably looking into self-tanners as an alternative. And let us tell you, you’re on the right track!

Although self-tanning can be a scary process for first-timers (let’s face it, none of us want an orange-looking, streaky tan), these 7 simple tips will ensure that you come out of your self-tanner experience a new and improved glowing goddess.

1- Pick out a self-tanner

Self-tanners come in different forms, you have lotions, mousse, oils, and sprays. And of course before anything else, you must first choose what you feel is the easiest for you to work with while keeping in mind the duration in which you want your tan to stick around.

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2- Prep your skin

Just like anything in life, self-tanning requires preparations too. Make sure that you exfoliate your skin a night before you plan to apply your preferred self-tanner. If you have a wax appointment close to date, take it before self-tanning, too!

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3- Use a tanning mitt

Thinking of applying your self-tanner using your bare hands? Stop right there and get yourself a reliable tanning mitt! Using one will ensure seamless application and streak-free results. Use sweeping motions instead of circular motions, this distributes product more evenly. 

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4- Face

When it comes to fake tanning your face, it’s best to incorporate your choice of tanning solution into your daily moisturizer. This way, you’ll have a continuous glow instead of suffering with an ‘almost there’ tan. 

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5- Back

Your back, however, is a whole other ball game; because unfortunately, not every single one of us have super flexibility powers to reach every part of our back. Here are a few tricks you can follow:

• Place the applicator part of your tanning mitt on the back of your hand instead of your palms. It will allow you to reach more of your back.
• Use a tanning mist so you can walk into the product after spraying the air. You can also spray above your shoulders and let gravity do its job.

6- Hands and feet

Self-tanning your hands and feet is tricky because tanning products tend to settle on creases and folds. To avoid patchy knuckles and toes, tan these parts last with leftover product on your tanning mitt.

7- How to make your tan last longer

After all the hard work you’ve just put into applying a fake tan, you of course want to make it last as long as it can. Memorize these don’ts to avoid a dented tan and make it last longer:

• Don’t wear tight fitting clothes
• Don’t do vigorous workouts (no sweating!)
• Don’t go near water until your fake tan fully sets and dries