How To Apply Fake Tan On Your Face

Many of us dream of having a golden tan. So much so that research by Mintel revealed the British people spend a whopping £35 million a year on fake tan products. So, let’s talk about how to fake tan your face like a pro and answer all your self-tanning questions right here, right now.

How to apply fake tan to your face correctly

Yes, you can have a natural glow without sunbathing. Even better, you can even choose the shade you want – a sunkissed flush or a deep, dark tan. Self-tanning products include a substance called DHA that makes the skin darker and boosts glow.

Clarins’ self-tan products blend the DHA with erythrulose to ensure an even colour and glow. All skin tones can benefit from self-tan – from the palest to melanin-rich – as it counteracts any ashiness. Plus, with adjustable effects, you can customise your tan easily and inject anywhere from a glow like you’d get from a two-day spa break – to a three-week vacation hue – in one self-tan session.

Follow our expert step-by-step guide on how to prep for and apply fake tan to your face:

Step 1: Exfoliate

Smooth your face before you apply a fake tan with a facial scrub, such as the Fresh Scrub, enriched with lava beads and willow herb extract. Additionally, the Gentle Peeling Smooth Away Cream is ideal for all skin types; it eliminates dead skin cells and impurities, leaves skin soft and radiant, and ready to tan.

Step 2: Should I moisturise before applying fake tan?

The answer is yes! Hydrate the skin so your fake tan lasts longer and applies evenly. Avoid oils as this can make application tricky and it can react with certain self-tanners – breaking the formula down and making it patchy. Instead, use a light lotion or cream.

Remember: moisturising your face day and night is always essential and even more critical after applying a fake tan to make it last longer. Add a little extra cream to any sunspots or freckles as this can soak up the self-tanner like a sponge and make the area even darker.

Step 3: decide which self-tanning product to use

Choose the texture you prefer.

● Lotion: The lightweight milky lotion works well on the face and body – aloe vera extracts mean it absorbs quickly into the skin.

● Gel: The fast tanning Instant Gel offers speedy results – it imparts a subtle glow and you can get dressed quickly after application.

● Drops: Create your own shade by adding Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster For Face to your regular day or night moisturiser. Start with one drop and increase the amount until you get the desired effect.

Step 4: how to fake tan your face

For the smoothest, most even finish, use a self-tanning body applicator mitt. Place the product in the centre of the mitt (the palm of your hand). Smooth on evenly – avoiding eyebrows and hairline. Distribute in small circles and really buff into the skin, applying small amounts of product at a time. If you have fair hair, then clean your hairline and eyebrows with a cotton wool ball dipped in toner.

Step 5: let the tan develop

It can take six to eight hours for fake tan to develop – so no cleansing.

Fake tan tips

How long does it take for fake tan to develop?

For a deeper and longer lasting glow, let your fake tan develop for 6-8 hours before washing it off. If you are going for a more natural glow, 2-3 hours is ideal. Just remember to avoid contact with water in the initial stages after applying fake tan to your face.

How to fake tan your face without breaking out

Self-tan can help skin look more even as it tones down redness associated with some types of blemishes. If you want to keep with your anti-blemish regimen – then add some tanning drops to your existing products.

Can you moisturise after applying fake tan?

It is recommended to avoid moisturising straight after applying fake tan as there is a risk of disturbing the tan, resulting in streaks and patches. The best way to fake tan is to moisturise before application to ensure an even, more natural glow.

How to fake tan your face without going patchy

When applying fake tan, blend the product in gently and evenly and make it absorb into your skin. No product residue should be left on the skin, as this is when you’ll emerge with streaks.

Be careful when applying under the eyes and on the eyelids, prep skin with an extra layer of moisture, dab onto dry patches, sunspots and moles.

Does layering fake tan make it darker?

The best way to fake tan is to apply one layer first and see how it looks. Applying a second layer of fake tan can make your tan look darker, and it all depends on the level of tan you want. However, make sure not to layer too much otherwise your tan might end up looking unnatural and lose its glow.

Is fake tan bad for your face and you?

A dermatologist’s take on ‘can fake tan damage your skin?’ It’s a resounding ‘no’ from the industry. Anything that keeps your face out of the sun is a good thing.

As well, you can consult our fake tan during pregnancy guide if you are pregnant and have concerns about fake tan as part of your beauty treatments routine.

Do you put gradual tan on your face?

Gradual tan is an excellent option for a natural radiance. We say, “Self-tanner gives you a summery glow all year round without the harmful effects of UV rays”.

Clarins’ self-tan products keep you looking golden and glowing whatever the weather. The best product for a light, natural and gradual tan on your face? Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster for Face.

Can you spray tan your face?

Yes, here’s how:

● Take a large powder brush; spritz the self-tan spray onto the brush, then use circular motions, buff into the face, blend into the hairline and down towards the neck, and decolletage. You can always do a second layer, and just buff into the cheekbones to subtly sculpt.

● If you’re applying mousse, use it like any fake tan product – put a little in the palm of your hand and apply to your face evenly. Make sure you apply up to your hairline and around the eyes. You can also use a brush on the hairline to ensure it blends with the scalp for a more natural look.

How to avoid fake tan staining hands and nails

The best way to avoid orange palms is to use either a wet wipe or washcloth to clean off your nails, between fingers and palms. Self-tanner turns nails yellow, and it will not wash off. Never give your hands a thorough washing post tanning session as this will also remove the bronze hue from the top of your hands.