I love the sun—being on a boat, lounging on a beach, or relaxing by the pool. But with everything we know about sun damage, I wear hats, apply sunscreen, and hide under umbrellas as much as possible. That means less natural tanning, which isn’t ideal for me. Fortunately, spray tans and self tanners let you stay bronzed without UV exposure. Here’s how I approach both options and the preparation that makes either method look its best.
There are countless products on the market, and new formulas keep appearing. I personally prefer tanning lotions for at-home use, but spray tans can deliver a darker, longer-lasting result. Below is a quick comparison to help you decide which fits your lifestyle.
Spray Tans
- Pros –
- Darker, more intense color
- Longer-lasting results
- Very even coverage across the body
- Cons –
- More transfer to clothes and bedding
- Often sticky with a stronger scent
- Usually requires staying home and avoiding activity for several hours
Tanning Lotions (At-Home)
- Pros –
- More natural-looking finish
- Convenient—no appointment required
- Milder scent compared with many spray tans
- Cons –
- May not last as long as a professional spray tan
- Hard to evenly reach the back without help
No matter which method you choose, the preparation steps are mostly the same. Proper prep ensures an even, natural-looking tan that fades gracefully.
- Exfoliation is essential. For an even color, remove dead skin and buildup before tanning. Any quality scrub or exfoliating mitt will work—sugar scrubs are popular, but they can leave a film, so follow with a thorough cleanse. My routine: scrub the skin, wash with body wash using a loofah, shave if needed, then wash once more with the loofah to remove residue. This minimizes patchiness and helps the tan adhere evenly.
- If you’re getting a spray tan, many professionals recommend showering several hours beforehand so pores can settle. The most important rule is: do not apply lotion, oil, or heavy moisturizers before your tan. Skin should be clean and product-free.
- Use an application mitt for at-home products. An application mitt helps spread mousse and lotion evenly without staining your hands. It also prevents streaks and those unattractive, dark fingertip marks. Popular choices include mousses for a natural color and express formulas for a deeper tan. If you like a little boost, a lightweight tan mist can be layered on top for added glow.
- Choose the right clothing after a spray tan. If you go to a salon, wear black, loose-fitting clothes that are easy to step into without rubbing freshly tanned skin—think a loose black dress or oversized shirt and shorts. Expect transfer; light-colored sheets and towels may stain. Switching to darker bedding or using a dedicated liner for the first night can prevent frustrating stains.
- Let the tan develop without disturbance. Aim to keep the tanning product on as long as recommended—often 8–12 hours. I sometimes sleep in the product wrapped in a towel or a disposable cover to avoid staining bedding. When you finally shower to develop or rinse off, use cool or lukewarm water and skip harsh scrubs or strong cleansers that could strip color. Pat skin dry instead of rubbing.
- Keep skin hydrated to prolong color. Moisturized skin holds self-tanner better and helps color fade more evenly. Lightweight lotions are great for daily maintenance, while body oils or glow oils add radiance and can extend wear. Focus on drier areas like elbows, knees, and ankles—apply sparingly there to avoid patchy buildup.
In short: exfoliate thoroughly, decide whether spray or lotion suits your needs, use the right tools for application, protect clothing and bedding, and keep your skin hydrated. Remember that self-tanning products are not permanent—tight clothing and friction will cause color transfer and uneven fading. Plan outfits accordingly, and avoid tight leggings for long periods after applying a tanner if you want to maintain an even finish.
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I hope these tips help you prepare for any summer events or simple weekly upkeep. I’d love to hear which method you prefer—spray tans or at-home self tanners—and which products you’ve enjoyed. Happy tanning!
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