Self-tanning allows you to get a beautiful skin tone without radiation. You should not spread body product on your face, since the skin in these areas differs greatly in quality and type. Self-tanning for the body has more active coloring pigments, which will show up too much on the face, and the effect will be not only unnatural, but also extremely strange.
The disadvantages of self-tanning are:
- Despite the fact that the use of such products is considered a safer way to get an even tan, you cannot be 100% sure about your health. Some components may cause allergies. Plus, the composition contains preservatives and fragrances, and cheap bronzers contain a lot of parabens. All this can also lead to skin reactions and dangerous diseases. Rashes may appear.
- Choosing a natural shade is not so easy. Not all brands produce self-tanners without reddish, natural color. You will have to try many brands before you find the right one.
- It often appears in spots or washes off unevenly.
Types of self-tanning release forms:
- Milk. It spreads easily and simply over the skin. Often the composition is enriched with oils and moisturizing components.
- Gel. Its advantage is its non-greasy texture, which is quickly absorbed. There is no sticky film left on the skin.
- Napkins. This is a convenient mobile method. They are comfortable to carry with you. After wiping, there is no risk of smearing the composition from the skin and getting streaks.
Recommendations on how to properly apply self-tanning to your face:
- For several days before use, it is necessary to cleanse the skin of dead cells using a scrub or enzyme peeling for a uniform shade and long-lasting effect.
- The skin should be well moisturized. In dry areas, the pigment appears more strongly. And before applying self-tanning to the skin, use a tonic and moisturizer without oils. This way the shade will lie evenly.
- To avoid stains, the face must be free. To do this, you need to remove your hair, open your neck and shoulders. It is also advisable to apply a little self-tanning in these areas. The effect will be more natural. You can put your hair in a ponytail or use a special headband to make it easier to work along the skin along the growth line.
- In order not to overdo it with the shade, it is better to mix self-tanning and daily cream in a 1:1 ratio. This way it will be distributed more easily and evenly over the surface, and the color will be more natural. If you want a more intense shade, apply self-tanning cream in several layers.
- To avoid getting your palms dirty and to make the color even, use a special glove or sponge.
- Self-tanning should be applied to the face along massage lines - from the chin up to the temples, then from the nose to the periphery and from the middle of the forehead to the border with the hair. It is important not to forget about the neck and décolleté. A little more can be applied to the collarbones. Along the hairline, the shade must be carefully shaded to erase all boundaries and transitions.
- After treating your face, you should thoroughly wash your hands and nails.
- The pigment appears for several hours; during this time you should not wash your face or rub your skin. You can take a shower or bath only after 5-6 hours. The water may turn slightly brown due to unabsorbed pigment. Do not go to bed immediately after application.
To maintain the result, you need to repeat the procedure every 3-4 days . During this time, you should limit the use of strong cleansers and scrubs.
Best self tanner for face:
| The product's name | Description | Photo |
| "Amber Soler" from Garnier, self-tanning milk | The product has additional moisturizing properties. The skin acquires a light golden hue without yellowness. The effect lasts quite a long time thanks to the apricot kernel oil included in the composition. | |
| Gel Sumblin Bronze from L'Oreal "Cool Freshness" | The product is adjusted to the type of dermis. The gel is absorbed quickly, there is no greasy, sticky film. | |
| Napkins from L'Oreal "Sublim Bronze" | An excellent option for beginners. The shade is even and golden. Additionally, the wipes exfoliate the skin so that the color becomes even. Each package contains two pieces, which are enough for the whole body and face. | |
| Milk from Yves Rocher | The color turns out golden. The product additionally moisturizes the skin thanks to eryngium extract. | |
| Guerlain Tan Booster Complex Terracotta Sun Serum | This product should be added a couple of drops to your usual daily face cream. The serum cares for the skin, gives it radiance and freshness. | |
| Tanning concentrate Addition eclat from Clarence | It needs to be added to daily care. The skin takes on a golden hue and a rested appearance. |
Read more in our article about self-tanning for the face.
Guerlain Foot Tint Terracotta Jolies Jambes
Every season, Guerlain releases bronzers for the face and body. This time, the Terracotta collection has been replenished with a new tint fluid, Jolies Jambes, in two colors (Light and Medium), which instantly transforms white skin, giving it a southern tan. Despite the fact that the formula of the product is resistant to sweat and friction (it will not flow at the right moment and will not begin to wear off, leaving white marks on the body), it is washed off with soap and water in no time. A nice bonus is that the fluid has a pleasant aroma of vanilla and tiare.
Products of popular brands
Self-tanning products can be found from different manufacturers. Accordingly, the price category also varies.
Sublime Bronze Delicate self-tanning milk from L'Oreal Paris
The milk is practically devoid of the specific odor characteristic of self-tanning; after application it quickly dissipates. The texture is very soft and melting. The milk leaves the skin feeling moisturized. The product adapts to her natural tone and gives a natural golden hue. Suitable for all skin types. Easy to use for beginners. It contains glycerin and dimethicone, which prevent moisture loss, honey, which provides nutrition and softening, and vitamin E, which is necessary to maintain youthful skin. It is recommended to use the milk daily until the desired tan shade is obtained, then at intervals of 3-4 days. The average price is 700 rubles.
Sublime Bronze Gentle self-tanning milk from L'Oreal Paris - a product that has a more neutral scent than many other self-tanners
Gelee Auto-Bronzante Express by Clarins
A lightweight gel that is quickly and conveniently applied provides your face with a beautiful tan. Natural tone is achieved thanks to the presence of a patented DHA complex in combination with erythrulose. One application gives a light golden tint, 2-3 daily applications give a deeper color. Contains glycerin and dimethicone to maintain skin hydration. The price on the brand’s website is 2150 rubles.
Gelee Auto-Bronzante Express from Clarins is a light-textured gel that does not prevent the skin from breathing
Dior Bronze Self-Tanning Jelly Gradual Sublime Glow by Dior
Suitable for all skin types. Available in two shades - natural and bronze. A very light cream-gel, which, in addition to the traditional “dye,” also contains tiny reflective golden particles that visually even out skin tone and mask fine wrinkles, giving the face a healthy glow. There are no streaks left on the face even with not very careful and even application. To maintain color, use every 1-2 days is recommended. Contains glycerin, vitamin E, caramel (natural bronzer), titanium dioxide (physical sunscreen), lactic acid (exfoliates dead skin particles, more even tone), natural plant extracts (tephrosia purpurea, coleus indica). Price - about 3000 rubles.
Dior Bronze Self-Tanning Jelly Gradual Sublime Glow from Dior can be applied even if not too carefully - the shade still applies smoothly
Sun Specialist Sunless Tanner by Jurlique
A little-known Australian brand of organic cosmetics in Russia. Natural bronzers - wild saffron oil and orange extract in combination with erythrulose - give the skin a tan without a yellowing effect. The light cream is easy to use and does not leave streaks or stains. The product is suitable for the face and body, skin of any type, provides deep hydration and restores tone. To maintain the effect, use twice a week. Contains many natural ingredients - safflower oil, vitamin E, extracts of echinacea purpurea, violet, clover, dandelion, burdock, caramel. The price on the brand’s website is 24 pounds (about 2,000 rubles).
Sun Specialist Sunless Tanner from Jurlique provides the face with a tan tone, including due to the presence of natural bronzers in the composition
Terracotta Sunless Heavenly Bronzing Mist by Guerlain
An almost weightless spray-mist, after the first application it leaves a light golden tint on the skin, which can be gradually increased to amber. The desired tone is maintained by applying the product 1-2 times a week. It is very easy to use and dries almost instantly. Contains alcohol; prolonged use may dry out the skin. The beneficial ingredients in the composition include glycerin, hydrolyzed castor oil, vitamin E, and aloe juice. A pleasant bonus is the light aroma of exotic flowers. Price - about 3000 rubles.
Terracotta Sunless Heavenly Bronzing Mist from Guerlain is a spray that gives the face a light tan that looks natural even on very light natural skin tones and almost never goes out of style.
Tea To Tan Face & Body Hydra-Bronze Shaker Spray by By Terry
Quick-drying self-tanning spray provides a fairly deep shade after the first use. If you need a more intense tone, you can immediately apply a second layer. Does not cause stains or smudges, restores skin moisture levels . Very economical to use. Suitable for face and body. Contains red and black tea extracts (natural antioxidants and bronzers). The price on the brand’s website is 68 euros (about 5,000 rubles).
Tea To Tan Face & Body Hydra-Bronze Shaker Spray from By Terry - self-tanning with one significant drawback - high price
Instant Self-Tanning Mousse from St. Moriz Professional
Available in two shades - medium and dark. Suitable for face and body, all skin types. The product must be rubbed thoroughly to avoid the appearance of white spots and streaks. It is more convenient to apply it with a mitten. Absorbs and dries quickly. The tan appears within 5–8 hours and lasts 5–10 days. No parabens. Price - 870 rubles.
Instant Self-Tanning Mousse from St. Moriz Professional is high quality at an affordable price
Video: review of self-tanning mousse from St. Moriz Professional
Beautifying Self-Tanning Lotion Solair Peau Parfaite by Yves Rocher
A light, refreshing lotion with a melting texture provides the skin with a tan that gradually intensifies after each use and deeply moisturizes it. Suitable for face and body. Recommended for use from the age of 25 (provides a lifting effect). Gives the skin a light pearlescent tint. Does not contain mineral oils, silicones, parabens, more than 90% of ingredients are of natural origin. It washes off evenly, without light spots. Contains Eryngium maritis extract, which provides UV protection and maintains skin moisture balance. The price on the brand’s website is 960 rubles.
Beautifying Self-Tanning Lotion Solair Peau Parfaite from Yves Rocher - self-tanning lotion with an almost completely natural composition
Video: self-tanning lotion from Yves Rocher
Deluxe Bronzing Mousse by Loving Tan
The delicate self-tanning mousse is available in two shades - medium and dark. Easy to use, does not leave stains or streaks, and does not produce unnatural yellowness or redness. Dries quickly and does not have the unpleasant odor characteristic of self-tanning. The kit includes a velor mitten for applying the product. Does not contain parabens and alcohol. The shade is fully visible in about 8 hours. Contains aloe vera juice and walnut extract (natural bronzer). The price on the manufacturer’s website is 3100 rubles.
Deluxe Bronzing Mousse from Loving Tan - a gentle mousse without parabens and alcohol that does not dry out the skin
Self-Tanning Towelette Bronzeada by Librederm
Self-tanner in the form of napkins. Gives the skin a light golden tint, which fully manifests itself after about 3 hours. One napkin is enough to treat the face, neck, and décolleté area. Hydrolyzed castor oil and vitamin E provide skin softening, nutrition and protection against free radicals. The official price for 4 pieces is 428 rubles, for 2 - 261 rubles.
Self-Tanning Towelette Bronzeada from Librederm is one of the most popular self-tanning products in napkin format among consumers.
Dior Gel-auto-bronzant for body Bronze
This auto-bronzing gel is specially created to envelop the skin in a delicate, radiant golden veil. The formula contains lactic acid and sweet almond oil, which even out the skin texture and moisturize it throughout the day. The product is instantly absorbed, and the tan appears gradually. What’s especially nice is that the gel leaves no marks even on white clothes!
Forms of release of the product
Self-tanning for the face can be purchased in different formats:
- Cream. Provides the most lasting results and rich tone. Its intensity is determined by the thickness of the layer. The product is absorbed for a long time, leaving a sticky feeling for several hours. It is difficult to distribute the cream evenly for someone who has just started using self-tanning. The texture is quite dense; this is not a suitable option for oily problem skin.
- Milk. Delicate texture - easy to apply, quickly absorbed without leaving any unpleasant sensations. Most often it contains oils for nutrition and other components to moisturize the skin.
- Lotion. Apply with a cotton pad, there is less risk of getting your hands dirty. May dry out skin.
- Gel. The product has the lightest possible texture - non-greasy, non-sticky, absorbs without residue, leaves no stains or a feeling of stickiness, and does not clog pores. Disadvantage: It often comes off in spots. Does not contain (or contains minimal) caring ingredients, not recommended for dry skin.
- Mousse. The light foam absorbs very quickly and requires minimal time to apply. The effect appears in less than an hour. Contains skin beneficial ingredients.
- Spray. The most suitable option for beginners. It absorbs and dries very quickly and does not need to be spread. It is strictly forbidden to rub sprays in - stains and streaks will remain. With regular use, it dries out the skin.
- Napkins. Convenient “hiking option” due to its compactness. No need to wait long for absorption. They can also correct the unevenness of the shade. Disadvantage: it is impossible to immediately assess the color intensity in individual areas of the face after application. The manufacturer most often gives other self-tanners a brownish tint, which allows you to control this. The napkins will not add intense darkening to the skin.
Self-tanning is available in different formats - this gives every woman the opportunity to find the option that is best suited for her.
Video: how to properly apply self-tanning on your face
Clarins Addition Concentré Eclat Corps
The uniqueness of this product is that it does not work independently, but in combination with any cream or body lotion. Mix a few drops of Addition Concentré Eclat Corps with your favorite skincare product and apply to skin for a natural tan effect. The more drops of concentrate you add, the more intense the shade will be on your skin.
How does self-tanning for the face differ from a similar product for the body?
Self-tanning is a special cosmetic product that allows you to literally acquire a golden skin tone in just a few hours, almost indistinguishable from the result of sunbathing or visits to a solarium. The effect in most products is provided by dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts only with amino acids in the surface layer of the epidermis, giving the skin its characteristic color. Its intensity depends on the concentration of this substance - it varies between 1–8%.
Dihydroxyacetone, which gives the skin a golden tint, is synthesized from sugar cane; therefore, it is a natural “dye”
Modern self-tanning has many advantages:
- natural color, without unattractive yellowness and redness, the ability to adapt to the natural tone of the face;
- the presence of additional caring components to moisturize and nourish the skin;
- quick result (the effect is noticeable after 2–4 hours, the final color appears in about a day);
- absence of photoaging (the result of exposure of the skin to natural and/or artificial ultraviolet radiation);
- Possibility of use for photosensitivity (ultraviolet allergy) and simply on very light, thin, easily burned skin.
Self-tanning, when properly selected and applied, provides a skin tone that is virtually indistinguishable from what could be obtained naturally or in a solarium.
Not without its drawbacks:
- staining of palms during application (use rubber gloves or wash your hands thoroughly immediately after completing the procedure);
- a specific burnt smell that occurs during the reaction of the active ingredient with amino acids (even flavors and other fragrances cannot always drown it out completely);
- unevenness of color after application (most often due to the fault of the woman herself, who used the product incorrectly) and after a few days (when washing and washing her hair, it is washed off unevenly);
- stains on clothes, dyed eyebrows, hair (if applied carelessly and if you do not wait until completely absorbed);
- short duration of the effect (the coating has to be renewed every 2–5 days);
- lack of sun filters (as a consequence - the need to use special products);
- in low-quality self-tanners - the presence of alcohol, which greatly dries the skin, a feeling of stickiness and tightness after application.
After applying self-tanner, to avoid unwanted redness, you need to wash your hands as soon as possible
There are also contraindications:
- any chronic dermatological diseases in the acute stage;
- unhealed mechanical damage to the skin or manifestations of allergies;
- inflammatory process, acne, multiple pimples;
- melanoma (skin cancer).
For the face, use only a self-tanner designed specifically for this purpose with the appropriate designation on the packaging. This is due to:
- lower concentration of DHA (1–3%), such products give a more moderate and natural-looking shade;
- lighter texture (self-tanning is more convenient to apply and distribute evenly);
- the presence of additional caring ingredients beneficial for facial skin;
- the “harshness” of the action of body products - possible peeling, irritation, swelling of the lips and eyelids.
Video: mechanism of action, benefits and harms of self-tanning for the face
Avène Auto-bronzing agent for face and body Moisturizing Self-Tanning Lotion
Like all Avène products, this auto-bronzant contains thermal water, which has soothing properties. Therefore, this product is suitable even for those with sensitive skin. One important point: after applying the tinted milk, you should wait 20 minutes for it to be absorbed, and only then start getting dressed. Otherwise, marks may appear on the body.
The nuances of choosing a self-tanner
Self-tanning, like any facial cosmetics, is selected taking into account the type, shade and other characteristics of your own skin:
- For oily skin, lighter textures are suitable - gel, lotion, mousse. Look for special products with anti-inflammatory ingredients. For dry skin, it is better to use cream or milk. The latter option is especially good for aging skin.
- It is not advisable to use cream on very light skin. The result will look very unnatural; when washed off, you will get leopard spots.
- The more sensitive the skin, the lower the concentration of active ingredient in self-tanner should be. Pay attention to the presence of other harmful chemicals - alcohol, parabens, dyes, fragrance.
- For those with translucent porcelain skin, light or clair self-tanners are recommended. Napkins that give a light golden tint are very suitable for them.
- If your face has a natural color from peach to sand, a self-tanner in medium or moyenne shade is suitable.
- The best option for dark-skinned girls is dark or fonce. This product will help highlight and deepen your natural skin tone. But lighter options can give an unpleasant yellow tint.
Skin type is of great importance when choosing a self-tanner.
There are also general rules: purchase products from brands with a solid reputation in trusted stores. A cheap, low-quality self-tanner will most likely go on unevenly and can cause serious skin problems. Be sure to test any product that is new to you for allergies.
Lancaster Self Tan Beauty Shower Lotion
Perhaps this is the most unusual self-tanning product of all those presented in our selection. It should be used immediately after a shower: spread the lotion onto damp skin, wait a minute, then rinse thoroughly. Do not rub your body with a towel, but just lightly pat it dry. The formula of the product begins to work when interacting with water, and the tanning effect appears immediately and lasts up to a week.
Basic rules for applying self-tanning
How to remove tan from face
The self-tanning procedure consists of several stages. First, the skin must be carefully prepared so that the self-tanner can cover it with a thin layer and the color is uniform:
- You should spend about a couple of weeks preparing for applying self-tanning. If there is any damage to the skin, you should wait until it heals. It is necessary to thoroughly cleanse the skin every day, especially to remove dead cells, using various scrubs and peels. Knees, elbows and shins are considered problem areas - they have thick and keratinized skin, so they need to be given more attention. It is imperative to moisturize and nourish the skin after each treatment. Creams, tonics and milks for this purpose are selected strictly according to skin type. Self-tanning will be easier to apply on properly prepared skin;
How to apply self-tanner correctly
- Approximately one day before applying self-tanning, hair removal should be carried out. There should be no irritation left after hair removal. Epilation is necessary so that self-tanning product does not accumulate around the hair follicles;
- After all the preparatory procedures, you can proceed directly to applying self-tanning. It is applied with quick, light movements. At the same time, you should not stop in one area for a long time;
- Self-tanning cream for the face is applied along massage lines;
- Less product is applied to the knees and elbows than to other areas. Due to the nature of the skin in these areas, they may become more intensely colored;
- It’s better to ask someone to help treat your back and areas behind you.
Important! Self-tanning is best applied using a damp sponge. This way it lies more evenly.
Reviews
“Cream Evelyn has been my best holiday friend for many years. By itself, my skin tans very poorly, and if this happens, the tan quickly “slides off”. Evelyn's cream contains components that are simply perfect for my demanding skin. The result is a quick and even color, like from a magazine cover. At my age, it’s already common to think about preserving youth, so this cream also performs this function. Bravo to the manufacturer for the excellent balanced composition, and special thanks for the low price.”
“I only recently learned about such a group of cosmetic products as bronzer creams. I decided to buy myself something. A friend from a cosmetics store recommended Labcare. I tried this product and was more than satisfied. Just happy! During 2 weeks of a sea holiday, I got a great tan. The shade turned out to be very noble and uniform. The skin remained elastic and soft. Of course, I had to apply the cream several times a day, but the result was worth it!”
“I have never been able to get such a wonderful tan. While “stocking up” on the necessary things before going on vacation, I came across a cream with Australian Gold bronzer in the store. I decided to try it because the instructions indicated that the effect would be almost instantaneous. Indeed, after the first day of use I saw a beautiful tan on my skin. Moreover, the skin seemed to become radiant.”
When choosing a tanning product with bronzer, consider your skin type. Many manufacturers offer products for different types, which makes it possible to choose the ideal product. It is also advisable to give preference to creams with a natural composition and the absence of excessive amounts of fragrances. Cream with bronzer helps a woman look irresistible, young and fresh on vacation (and after it).
How to apply cream lotion correctly
An equally important factor in a good result is the correct application. Dove self-tanning lotion is used just like any other. It works best on clean and smooth skin. To do this, take a shower with a hard washcloth, then the whole body needs to be scrubbed and dead cells exfoliated. You should also wax and shave in advance.
After water procedures, a nourishing and moisturizing cream is applied to the skin. Dry areas, such as elbows, knees and other places, should be treated especially carefully. This will help make the transitions from tanned to light parts less contrasting.
Expert opinion
Irina Kovaleva
Cosmetology expert
Like any self-tanner, Dove requires time to absorb. Therefore, for the product to completely “enter” the skin, you need to wait about an hour. During this time, you only need to be in a well-ventilated area so that the dermis does not sweat. Plus there is no need to wear clothes.
Dove self-tanner with a shimmering effect should be applied to dry skin. This should be done from bottom to top, thoroughly rubbing the cream over the surface of the body. For best results, it is recommended to use a special mitten. After the procedure, be sure to wash your hands. But it is important to do this carefully so as not to drip onto the body and get streaks.
Experts recommend conducting a sensitivity test. If within an hour no spots appear on the skin or any unpleasant sensations arise, then it can be used on the entire body.
Watch the video on how to properly apply self-tanning:
