When I was growing up in the Midwest circa the ‘90s, lying out by the pool was basically the extent of my summer plans. The goal? To roast my skin to a toasty butter pecan color from head to toe. Sunscreen, if it was ever in play, capped at SPF 5 (shuddering), and the baby oil was plentiful to maximize my UV exposure. Obviously, a few decades later, I learned the error of my ways and now have a robust sun care regimen, but I haven’t lost my love for a bronzed complexion. When you have as naturally fair skin as I do, you easily lean towards “corpse” in the summer if you’re not careful, a.k.a. if you’re not implementing a face self-tanner into your skincare routine.
Of course, you can always use a quality bronzer, contour, and highlighter to achieve that golden glow, but I’m partial to longer-lasting color that eliminates the need for too much makeup, especially when the temperatures are close to boiling. So, after much trial and error, I’ve perfected a face self-tanner routine to keep my skin looking like a bronzed goddess all summer long. Bonus? It doesn’t take me much effort (lazy girls unite), and the products are suitable for my dry, reactive skin.
Eliminate Peach Fuzz
A smooth, dolphin-like finish is what you want before going in with any self-tanning products, as it will help the formula sink into the skin evenly and ensure your tan looks as natural as possible.
If you’re new to dermaplaning (which, yes, is just shaving your face with a cool rebrand), reach for this sonic device to make it as easy as possible. Use it once your tan starts to wear off, as the process will exfoliate that layer of skin that holds the color.
I always keep this reusable tool stocked in my bathroom cabinet (along with plenty of refill blades) so I can keep my skin smooth and ready for tanner. I dermaplane every two weeks or so in the summer.
Exfoliate for Smoothness
Although dermaplaning provides some exfoliation, I love to use a gentle physical cleanser to buff my skin and banish rough patches. Again, a seamless canvas is the goal before you start adding self-tanner.
This formula is a cult-favorite for a reason. The rice-based powder cleanser activates with water and gently buffs and smooths the skin for a silky soft finish.
Ugh, this formula is so good, no wonder I keep a backup bottle in my cabinet in case I run out. It never strips my skin but also manages to remove dirt and buildup with just one wash. It’s a must for clear summer skin.
Add Lightweight Hydration
Dry patches will absorb self-tanner differently than hydrated ones, so reach for a lightweight moisturizer that won’t clog your pores. It’s an essential pre-tanner step to keep the color even.
My skin drinks up this hyaluronic acid-rich moisturizer like I just hit a mirage in the desert. My summer skincare routine is definitely at elite status with this in my lineup.
I am deeply obsessed with this moisturizer, especially since my skin is freaking out with tiny pimples around my nose and forehead at the moment. It feels like my complexion can finally breathe and the congestion is already going way down after just a few weeks of use.
SPF Primer Is Key
This is the secret sauce of my face self-tanning routine. Sunscreen is obviously still a must, but using a formula that doubles as a primer can help keep the finish seamless.
I will shout it from the rooftops: I genuinely think this is the best product Charlotte Tilbury makes (and the brand has a lot of amazing products). It delivers a flawless finish and perfectly preps your skin for the final step of self-tanner.
This texture is so yummy and my skin always looks like it has a seamless barrier, even with no makeup on. The lightweight feel is also much appreciated during this hot summer weather.
Spritz On Your Tan
I love a spray self-tanner for a super subtle finish—just make sure to rub it in and wash your hands afterwards. Wait until your SPF has set, about five minutes, to keep the color consistent across your face and neck.
This formula hasn’t failed me for the past six years, and I don’t think that’s ever going to change. It delivers the prettiest sun-kissed glow, and I’ve yet to experience a blotchy patch of color. I use five to six spritzes across my face and neck, gently tap them in with my hands, and watch as the color develops over a few hours. Use it in the morning so it has time to dry, apply it for three days in a row, and you’ll be perfectly golden for the next week.
This ultra-fine mist is packed with hydrating and nourishing skin benefits in addition to golden, dewy color. The golden color is super buildable, and the application is basically foolproof. Again, five to six spritzes is where you want to land—if you want more color, I’d apply it more frequently rather than increasing the amount you spritz each time.
Try Drops if You’re a Newbie
Tanning drops are also a stellar entry point if you’re new to self-tanner. You just add them to your moisturizer and apply as usual—just remember to wash your hands to avoid orange palms!
Adding two to three drops of this formula to my SPF is truly the easiest way to add a hint of color to my complexion. This shade is ideal if you have fair skin like mine.
You can use this formula either as a stand-alone serum (this is for more practiced tanners, IMO) or as drops into your moisturizer. Either way, the final color is true bronzed goddess status.
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