If you find it difficult to apply self-tanner to your backside, then this just might be the right self-tanner formula for you. In essence, self-tanner mist is a tan in a can. "It's definitely easier to get hard-to-reach spots and greater coverage with a spray, so it's less likely that you can mess it up. It's also great to quickly tan your face with a few sprays," Evans says. Caleb Backe, health and wellness expert for Maple Holistics, likes South Seas Skin Care Tahitian Tan Mist, $28. "Not only does it dry instantly, it ensures that you get an even tan that dries on contact," he says. After exfoliating in the shower, shake the can well and spray it all over your body in circular motions from 12 inches away. Wait eight hours until showering again.
Self-tanner towelettes offer a lot of control, so they're easier to use and build coverage than a lot of other formulas, says Evans. Most brands make separate self-tanner towelettes for face and body. For face, she loves Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads, $38, because they offer very natural color. "They exfoliate while adding adding the DHA tanning agent and also have added vitamins and antioxidants," Evans says. After cleansing, apply in circular motions over your face.
For body, Backe says TanTowel Body Tan Towelettes, $29, are the gold standard and are even formulated with tea tree oil to fight body breakouts. Exfoliate, apply in circular motions to dry skin (using sparingly around your knees, ankles and elbows) and allow to dry for at least four hours.
For body, Backe says TanTowel Body Tan Towelettes, $29, are the gold standard and are even formulated with tea tree oil to fight body breakouts. Exfoliate, apply in circular motions to dry skin (using sparingly around your knees, ankles and elbows) and allow to dry for at least four hours.
Like self-tanner lotions, it's easy to mess up when using self-tanner mousse, though using a mitt can make application simpler. According to Evans, a mousse is usually thicker and darker than a lotion, providing more coverage and typically fewer streaks. She suggests opting for a lighter color the first time you use it and recommends Tan-Luxe Hydra-Mousse, $57, as her formula of choice. "It's amazing and clear and streak-free and hydrating at the same time," Evans says, adding that it provides very natural, non-orangey color. Use the mitt to sweep the self-tanner over moisturized skin, then wait at least 6 to 10 hours before showering.
For a slight hint of color on your face, reach for a self-tanner serum. "They're typically only used for the face," Evans says. "They can be pretty light and easy to layer with a lower amount of DHA. They're great to use every morning before your makeup routine for a little extra glow." Similar to regular serums, self-tanner serums sometimes have added vitamins, oils or hydrating ingredients, like hyaluronic acid. Evans' pick for this category is Coola Organic Sunless Tan Anti-Aging Face Serum, $54. For a gradual tan, add a couple of drops to your daily moisturizer.
Customize your tan with self-tanner drops. They're concentrated and can be added to your regular serum, moisturizer or body lotion. "I love these for an easy way to add a little glow to your typical everyday routine," Evans says. For the face, try Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Drops, $29, formulated with avocado, chia seed and coconut oil for major moisturization. Just add one or more drops (depending on how deep you want your tan to be, you can use up to 12 drops) to your moisturizer and apply.
For the body, Evans likes Tan-Luxe The Body Illuminating Self Tan Drops, $59, which helps reduce the appearance of cellulite in addition to providing golden color. Mix two to six drops into your regular body lotion.
For the body, Evans likes Tan-Luxe The Body Illuminating Self Tan Drops, $59, which helps reduce the appearance of cellulite in addition to providing golden color. Mix two to six drops into your regular body lotion.