For many, at-home self-tanner is the most convenient way to achieve a healthy glow or extend the results of an airbrush spray tan, but many products fail to provide a natural touch of color, instead turning skin a garish shade of orange. What’s the secret to maintaining a vibrant, glowing complexion without spending hours in the sun? Finding the best self-tanner for your unique skin!
How does self tanner work?
Before we dive into choosing the best self-tanner, let’s explore how these products give your face and body a luscious bronze color.
What’s the active ingredient in self tanner?
Dihydroxyacetone or DHA is the active ingredient in most self-tanners. It’s often derived from plant sources like beets and sugarcane, or through the fermentation of glycerin. Since it doesn’t penetrate beyond the outermost layer of skin, it’s completely safe for topical application.
How does self tanner stain skin?
Believe it or not, DHA doesn’t exactly stain the skin. Instead, it sets off a chemical reaction in your skin’s surface proteins that produces pigments to darken your skin without harmful UV exposure. The best self-tanner lotions, creams, and mousses tint the skin for 7 to 10 days.
Is self tanner safe for sensitive skin?
A high-quality self-tanner formulation should be safe and effective for all skin types and tones, even sensitive skin. Be sure to look for products without artificial dyes and fragrances that can irritate skin. If you have topical allergies, a hypoallergenic formula may offer added safety.
How to choose the best self tanner
To determine the best self-tanner for your skin, consider your desired results, your natural skin tone, and how this product will integrate into your skincare routine.
Skin tone and shade
If your skin is fair or pale, a deep, chocolate brown tone may not suit your natural features. The perfect self-tanner should allow you to tailor your results based on how quickly you shower after application. Customizable formulations put you in control of your tan’s intensity for enviable, natural-looking results.
Application process
While airbrush spray tans take the guesswork out of tanning, you may prefer self-tanning products that you can apply at home or on the go to best fit your lifestyle. Lotions tend to develop gradually over the course of eight hours or so, and are great for drier skin.
Mousses are lightweight, fast-drying, and ideal for folks with experience using self-tanners. They often develop more quickly, requiring prompt blending for even, streak-free coverage.
No matter which type of self-tanner you choose, it’s important to exfoliate dead skin cells before you apply the product to your skin. For optimal results, use an application mitt for a flawless, even tan.
Ingredients
Cheap self-tanners may contain drying alcohols, synthetic fragrances, and harsh preservatives that don’t support skin health. Shop for products containing soothing ingredients like aloe vera, green tea, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid to nourish your outer layer and help you care for your skin, not just color it.
The best self tanner for a natural glow
Ready to find the best self-tanner for a glowing, radiant complexion? Here are two of our favorite options to consider:
AGLOW Self Tanning Lotion
Our AGLOW Self-Tanning Lotion is the perfect solution for folks who want a gradual, buildable kiss of color without harsh ingredients or unpleasant smells. The creamy, hydrating formula takes more time to absorb into the skin, allowing you to ensure even, streak-free coverage.
It’s ideal for people with fair to medium skin tones, offering customizable intensity with reapplication. With aloe vera, vitamin E, shea butter, and green tea, your skin is sure to love this at-home self-tanner. Results typically last four to seven days.
AGLOW Espresso Rapid Tanning Mousse
Those searching for a fast-acting self-tanner that provides a deep, rich glow will want to try our AGLOW Espresso Rapid Tanning Mousse. Simply apply with an application mitt and allow it to work its magic for one to six hours, depending on your desired level of darkness.
Then, rinse with water and you’re ready for the big event! This formula contains aloe vera, vitamin E, and espresso bean extract for happy, healthy skin and an alluring coffee scent. You can expect your results to last five to seven days.
Experience the best in sunless tanning at AGLOW!
At AGLOW Airbrush Tanning, we’re obsessed with helping our clients achieve the perfect tan without the risks of dangerous UV exposure. Whether you prefer a hands-off approach through airbrush tanning or you’d rather find a self-tanner you can use in the comfort of your own home, we’re here to help!
Check out our brick-and-mortar locations, hire our mobile tanning salon for your next girls’ night, or explore our collections to find the perfect product for your skincare routine. Still looking for answers? Reach out today to learn more!
