Struggling with self-tanner streaks, uneven patches, or orange tones? Here's how to fix and avoid them:

• Preparation is key: Exfoliate 8 hours before, moisturize dry areas 2-3 hours before, and avoid oil-based scrubs or shaving right before applying.
• Application tips: Use a tanning mitt, apply in circular motions, and start from your feet upward. Avoid sweating or getting wet for 6-8 hours after or use Glow By Erin Finishing Powders.
• Fix streaks or patches: Exfoliate gently, soak in a warm bath, or use products like self-tan erasers. For small areas, try a baking soda and lemon juice mix.
• Choose the right shade: Match your skin tone and build color gradually over a few days for a natural look.
• Maintain your tan: Keep skin hydrated, avoid hot water, and exfoliate every few days for even fading.

With proper prep, application, and upkeep, you can achieve a flawless, streak-free tan every time. Let’s dive into the details!

Fixing Streaks and Patches

Why Streaks Happen

Self-tanner streaks are often the result of simple mistakes during application. Kristyn Pradas explains:

"If you exfoliate with oil-based scrub, the oil can create a barrier between skin and self-tanner. You'll be left with weird marks and both dark and light spots."

Common causes include:

• Using oil-based exfoliants before tanning
• Applying self-tanner right after shaving
• Failing to remove old self-tanner completely
• Sweating or getting wet too soon
• Wearing tight clothing too soon after applying tanner

Sophie Evans, Celebrity Spray Tan Expert and St. Tropez Tan Brand Ambassador, adds:

"When people are scared of a self-tan, they use a very small amount of product to tan a large area. The lack of product and over-rubbing causes streaks."

Steps for Even Application

To avoid streaks, stick to these steps:

Avoid using deodorants or perfumes before applying self-tanner. Start at your feet and work upward, always using circular motions to ensure even coverage.

How to Fix Existing Streaks

If streaks or patches appear, here’s how to fix them:

For small areas, mix:

• 2 teaspoons of baking soda
• Juice from half a lemon
• A few drops of body oil

For larger patches:

• Soak in a warm bath with oil for about 15 minutes
• Use a tanning mitt to buff the skin
• Apply baby oil to uneven spots and gently rub

You can also try products like Isle of Paradise Over It Magic Self-Tan Eraser ($30) or Bondi Sands Self Tan Eraser ($24).

Jules Von Hep, Global Tanning Director for Tan-Luxe, suggests:

"Whether you're using a mousse, spray, oil, or whatever, you should always blend with a mitt."

For streaky areas, use a makeup sponge to apply a small amount of tanner, then blend it out with a dry towel.

Next, we’ll explore how to achieve a natural-looking color.

Getting Natural-Looking Color

Picking Your Shade

Finding the right self-tanner shade is key to achieving a natural look. The goal is to match the product to your skin tone. Here's a quick guide to help you choose the best option:

James Read, the founder of Self Glow by James Read, suggests:

"It's best to build your tan up over a few days so you never go too tanned."

Once you've picked your shade, focus on gradual application to build a natural and even tan.

Building Color Slowly

Gradual self-tanners are designed with lower DHA levels, allowing your color to develop subtly over a few days (typically 3–5) . This method gives you more control over the final result.

Here’s how to use gradual tanners effectively:

• Apply daily until you reach the color you want.
• Start with tricky spots like behind the knees or under the arms, then move to larger areas for even coverage.
• Reapply every 2–3 days to maintain your tan.
• Exfoliate between applications to keep your base smooth and consistent.

Fixing Orange Results

Sometimes self-tanners can leave orange tones, which happen when DHA reacts with amino acids in your skin proteins . Here’s how to prevent and fix those unwanted results:

Prevention Tips:

• Apply a thin layer of Vaseline around your hairline as a barrier .
• Use moisturizers with antioxidants to promote even development .
• Always pair your self-tanner with SPF to protect your skin .

Correction Methods:

• Gently exfoliate to speed up the fading process .
• Use violet shampoo to neutralize brassy tones .
• Switch to a gradual tanner for better control over future applications.

Cosmetic chemist Perry Rowanowski explains:

"The self-tanner ingredient DHA (dihydroxyacetone) chemically reacts with amino acids in the skin protein in a way that changes skin to a brown (really orange-ish) color. Hair is also made of amino acid-containing proteins. So the DHA in the self-tanner undergoes the same chemical reaction on your hair as on your face. If your hair were colored (either naturally or dyed), you likely wouldn't see any staining. But gray hair is absent of any color, so even a small stain is noticeable."

If you have gray hair and are worried about staining, apply a protective barrier, like Vaseline, around your hairline .

How to Apply Self Tanner at Home Like a Pro

Managing Dry Skin and Fading

Once you've achieved the perfect tan, keeping your skin hydrated is key to addressing dryness and preventing uneven fading.

Moisturizing Before Tanning

Well-hydrated skin creates a smoother, longer-lasting tan. Here’s a simple prep timeline to follow:

"Exfoliating helps remove the proteins in the outer layer of the skin. These proteins can interfere with DHA's ability to create a tanned look."

Once your skin is prepped, it’s time to focus on keeping your tan intact.

Making Your Tan Last

Products like Glow By Erin's 3-in-1 Shampoo Bars are great for maintaining both color and hydration. Unlike traditional cleansers, this soap-free option is gentler and helps avoid stripping your tan.

Here are some must-know tips:

• Apply moisturizer to damp skin within 2 minutes after showering.
• Skip hot water and long baths.
• Stay away from chlorinated pools and salt water.
• Use gradual tanners as part of your daily moisturizing routine.
• Avoid harsh soaps that can dry out your skin.

Ensuring Even Fading

Keeping your skin moisturized not only extends your tan but also promotes even fading. For targeted touch-ups, try Glow By Erin's Exfoliating Mitt to smooth out areas without removing your tan entirely.

Here’s how to tackle common issues:

Adjust your exfoliation routine based on how your tan fades to keep your skin looking its best.

Tanning Difficult Areas

Applying self-tanner evenly can be tricky, especially on areas like hands, feet, and your back. Here’s how to handle these spots with care.

Hands and Feet Tips

Getting a natural look on hands and feet takes some prep. Use an oil-free moisturizer about 30 minutes before tanning, focusing on dry areas like knuckles and ankles.

"Applying self-tanner to your hands and feet requires extra care to avoid obvious bottle-tan signs." - Peta Jane Beauty

Here’s a quick guide to mastering these areas:

Back and Hard-to-Reach Spots

Tanning your back requires the right tools and technique. Follow these steps for smooth, even coverage:

1. Choose the Right Tool
   A back applicator with velvety fabric and handles works best.
2. Apply with Control
   Start at the center of your back and move outward using smooth strokes. Use a mirror to ensure even coverage.
3. Check for Missed Areas
   Opt for a self-tanner with a bronzer to spot uneven areas. After applying, use a misting spray from about six inches away to blend any lines .

Smooth Transitions

Blending between different body areas is key to avoiding noticeable lines. Pay attention to spots where skin texture changes, like the neck and jawline.

For your face, start with areas that naturally tan - forehead, cheeks, and nose. Use only a small amount of product and blend outward in gentle circles. The neck often fades faster due to washing, so apply carefully and blend upward toward the jawline .

For tricky transition areas, try tools like Glow By Erin's Custom Powder Brush. Its soft bristles help create subtle, natural-looking gradients.

Here’s how to dilute and blend tanner around joints:

• Ankles: Mix the tanner with regular lotion before applying.
• Wrists: Blend upward after applying to your hands.
• Neck: Use minimal product and blend upward to the jawline.
• Knees/Elbows: Pay extra attention to creases during prep and application.

Problem-Solving Guide

Even seasoned self-tanners face the occasional mishap. Here's how to tackle common issues and keep your products in top condition for the best results.

Emergency Fixes

When self-tanning goes awry, quick action can save the day. For neutralizing unwanted tones, try the Glow By Erin Charcoal Detox Bar.

Here’s how to handle specific problems:

"Put tanner on a small makeup sponge and apply around the streak. Then take a dry towel and blend in the two areas, and wait for it to develop."
– Jules Von Hep, Global Tanning Director for Tan-Luxe

After handling these immediate issues, proper care of your tanning products can help prevent similar problems in the future.

Product Care

Storing your self-tanning products correctly ensures they last longer and work as intended. Just like applying tanner evenly is crucial for a flawless look, keeping your products in good condition supports consistent results.

Key storage tips:

• Keep products in a cool, dark place like a closet.
• Check expiration dates and use them within 12 months.
• Refrigerate for longer storage if needed.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes to maintain stability.

"Extreme temperature changes and light are the enemies of all sunless tanning products, breaking down the DHA and oxidizing the bronzers - yuck!"
– SunSpray By Kathryn

Conclusion

Here’s a quick recap of how to achieve and maintain a flawless self-tan using expert tips and tools.

Glow By Erin's Sunless Bronzing Mousse and finishing powders offer a salon-quality tan right at home. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, the mousse develops in 4–8 hours, leaving you with a natural medium to dark tone .

The key to success? Preparation, application, and upkeep. Start by exfoliating 24–48 hours before tanning. Use tools like the Sunless Tanning Mitt to ensure smooth, streak-free coverage.

"Moisturizing twice a day and keeping yourself hydrated throughout the day truly helps with keeping that tan lasting" – Isabel Alysa, Celebrity Tanner and Founder of Dolce Glow

For the best results, build your tan gradually. Premium self-tanning products are designed to provide consistent, natural color. In fact, 100% of testers reported an even fade and a natural-looking glow .