Top Tips for the Best Tan

Hydrate

Exfoliate

Apply

Extend

Hydrate

Exfoliate

Apply

Extend

Tips For The Best Tan Application

Achieve a Flawless, Sun-Kissed Glow

Looking for that perfect, streak-free tan without the harmful effects of the sun? Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to self-tanning, getting that flawless glow comes down to a few essential steps. Here, we’ll walk you through expert tips and tricks for achieving a beautifully even tan that looks completely natural, every single time.

#1 Properly Exfoliate & Prep

The foundation of any great tan is smooth skin. Exfoliating before application ensures an even base by removing dead skin cells that can cause patchy or uneven areas. Focus on dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub, like our Sjolie Sugar Scrub, to buff your skin and leave it soft and ready for tanning.

PRO TIP: Shave & exfoliate at least 24 hours before applying your tan to allow your pores to close, preventing dark spots. Any other beauty appointments like hair, nails, waxing, or massages should be scheduled at least 48 hours before your tanning session and avoided after your tan to preserve the application.

#2 Moisturize Dry Areas

Certain areas of the body absorb more tanning product and can appear darker if not prepped properly. Moisturize areas like your knees, elbows, hands, and feet using Barrier Cream to create a barrier that will prevent over-absorption. Do not use an over-the-counter moisturizer in place of Barrier Cream. Unlike Barrier Cream, these lotions contain oils and other ingredients that will leave behind residues that can interfere with the tan’s development.

#3 Choose the Right Tanning Products

The key to a natural-looking tan is using the right product for your skin type and desired results. Whether you prefer a mousse, tanning water, or gradual tanner, Sjolie offers a range of options to suit your needs. Each formula is carefully made to meet your application and color requirements.

Pro Tip: When it comes to picking a color, opt for natural. Choosing a product that’s 1-2 shades darker than your natural tan color will ensure that your faux tan will look natural and fade well.

#4 Apply with a tanning mitt for even coverage

For a streak-free finish, always use a tanning mitt. It ensures a smooth application, prevents product buildup on your hands, and helps you blend the tan evenly across your skin. Pump or spray the product onto the mitt and apply in long, sweeping motions, starting from your legs and working your way up. Or, apply your tanner directly to the skin and use the mitt to buff and blend away uneven areas.

Pro Tip: Use circular motions to blend the product around areas that naturally bend, like your knees and elbows.

#5 Blend carefully around joints and fingers

One of the most common tanning mishaps happens around areas like ankles, wrists, and fingers. To avoid telltale signs of self-tanning, use the leftover product on your mitt for these areas, blending lightly to prevent any dark patches.

Pro Tip: Use circular motions to blend the product around areas that naturally bend, like your knees and elbows

#6 Allow your Tan to Fully Develop

For the best results, let your tan develop for at least 8 hours before rinsing unless you are using a product that claims it’s rapid. During this development period, avoid sweating, swimming, or wearing tight clothing that could cause the product to rub off. After the tan develops, rinse off with lukewarm water (no soaps) to reveal a gorgeous, natural glow.

Pro Tip: Pat yourself dry after rinsing instead of rubbing to help maintain the tan’s longevity.

#7 Hydrate to extend your tan

To keep your tan looking fresh and glowing, moisturize daily. Hydrated skin holds onto a tan longer, so use a nourishing moisturizer like our Sjolie Body Moisturizer to lock in hydration. For a longer-lasting tan, incorporate a Tan Extend Lotion into your daily hydration routine to improve your overall color.

Pro Tip: Avoid exfoliating again until you’re ready to reapply your tan to keep it smooth and even for as long as possible.

With these simple steps, you'll unlock the secret to a flawless self-tan that looks natural, radiant, and perfectly applied. Ready to get started? Explore our full range of professional-grade tanning products to create your perfect sunless glow.

This website is for informational purposes only. To purchase Sjolie Sunless products, please visit your local Sjolie salon or contact us to find a salon or spa near you.

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