Discover some of the best sunless tanning options for a natural, bronzy glow this summer.
Spray Tans
Spray tans work by misting a layer of colored or clear developing tanning solution onto bare skin. The tan should last seven to 10 days if maintained properly, and it leaves you with a beautiful, natural glow in your preferred shade. Tanning salons and spray tanning mobile businesses, as well as some day spas, offer one-time spray tans or packages for multiple tans.
Tanning Lotions, Foams, and Sprays
A variety of self-tanning options are available on the market, often customizable by the desired tan shade or your skin’s undertones. Some come in lotion form and others in a foam or spray, and they typically require a tanning mitt to apply the product to the skin.
Gradual Tanning Products
If you prefer to let your tan develop over a few days to a week, some products deposit a light amount of color and allow you to build up the bronze over time. Labeled as “gradual tan” products, these are often a lotion applied multiple times a week to the face or body.
Bronzer and Body Glow Products
Bronzer instantly adds a warm glow to the skin. Bronzers and body glow products come in a variety of shades and formulas such as primers, lotions, creams, gels, or powders. Get a natural-looking glow by applying bronzer to areas where the sun would naturally touch your face, such as your nose and the high points of your cheeks.
Tanning Prep & Maintenance
Shave and Exfoliate
Tanners stick best to skin that is clean, dry, and well exfoliated.
Wait to Shower or Exercise
Most tanning products require a waiting period between application and showering or exercising to help the tan develop. Follow the salon’s instructions or the instructions on the product to maintain your tan.
Use Gentle Products
When showering post-tan, use gentle cleansers and avoid scrubbing the skin. Moisturize with a lightweight, oil-free lotion as needed.
Meet the Author
Kristen Dee, BS, MA, Summa Cum Laude
Kristen Dee is a graduate of Winthrop University where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in integrated marketing communications, with the distinction of Magna Cum Laude and IMC Student of the Year. Following Winthrop, Kristen earned a Master of Arts in Communication from Wake Forest University. Prior to joining CMC Media & Marketing Group as editor, Kristen successfully fulfilled roles involving internal corporate communications. Today, Kristen leads ideation, conceptualization, and development of numerous health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia.
