Expert Tips For How To Self-Tan Your Back
Many people have switched over to at-home tanning solutions because it’s convenient and cost-effective. But it’s all ease and breeze until the hard part: how do you apply self tanner to your back?
Not to worry—where there’s a will, there’s a way! In this guide, we’ll share all of our expert, tried-and-true tips for how to self tan your back.
How To Self Tan Your Back: 3 Steps for Success
Step 1: Prepare your skin
First, start the process by cleansing your back (and everywhere else you plan to tan) before applying self-tanner. Follow cleansing with an exfoliator, so you begin with a smooth, healthy layer of skin.
Cleaning and exfoliating prior to putting self-tanner on will help your skin hold onto the shade and prevent streaks. Pro tip: choose oil-free products to make the tanner absorb better. If you have any areas you typically shave, make sure you do this before applying the tanner as well.
Step 2: Apply Self Tanner
Ready to learn how to put self-tanner on your back?, We’ve discovered the best way to apply self tanner to your back and we don’t gatekeep our secrets. Follow these tips and tricks to make your back look just as bronzed as the rest of your body.
- Tip #1: Start with a small amount — It’s best to start with a small amount of self tanner and gradually add more. That way, you’re slowly building a tan, making it easier to fix any mistakes later on.
- Tip #2: Use a Self-Tanner With an Added Moisturizer – The type of self-tanner you use can also make the process of tanning your back more manageable. We like using a tanner that has an added moisturizer when we tan our back. A moisturizing tanner can go on smoother and cover those hard-to-reach places.
- Tip #3: Grab a Long Wooden Spoon – Reaching your back may take some maneuvering, or you could get some help with everyday household objects. An easy hack to avoid streaks and getting self-tanner on your hands is to grab a long wooden spoon (or a similarly long-handled tool) and put a tanning mitt over the end. This makeshift tool with a tanning mitt will give you the extra dexterity you will need to apply your self-tanner evenly and thoroughly on your back. Opt for cling wrap, a sock, or rubber gloves if you do not have a tanning mitt.
- Tip #4: Start With the Spine And Work Outwards — The best way to apply self-tanner on your back is to start with verticle strokes in the center (down your spine) and work your way outwards with long, even strokes.
- Tip #5: Call a Friend – If you still have trouble reaching certain spots on your back, recruit a buddy to help! Ask a friend or a family member in your home to put self-tanner on your back. Show your buddy the proper technique, and make sure they cover all parts of your back.
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Step 3: Make It Last
Our skin cells naturally turn over in 7-10 days, so most tans — natural or otherwise — last about that long. But the beauty of sunless tanning methods is that you can make it last as long as you want, as long as you follow these self-tanner tips and upkeep maintenance applications.
- Tip #1: Avoid Contact or Moisture Post-Tan – After applying self-tanner to your back and body, steer clear of moisture for several hours. Wait a bit before putting on clothes, and when you do, wear loose-fitting garments.
- Tip #2: Moisturize Daily — Keeping your skin hydrated helps to prevent shedding, which can help your tan last longer. And on’t forget to moisturize your back! Stay away from oil-based moisturizers and lotions (like coconut oil)—while these are great moisturizers, they will break down your tanner and cause it to streak. Pro tip: use a tinted moisturizer to help upkeep your bronze.
- Tip #3: Avoid Hot Water — We all love a relaxing hot bath or shower, but unfortunately your self-taner won’t. Don’t spend extended periods of time in hot water.
- Tip #4: Stay Away From Exfoliants and Acids — Does your skincare routine involve exfoliants, peels, or any products containing salicyclic acid? Just know that these products can strip your tan faster.
- Tip #5: Stay Hydrated — Lotion is like a drink for your skin, but keeping yourself hydrated will also keep your skin hydrated! Drink lots of water to help your skin glow and keep your tan longer.
Get Your Glow On
With a gorgeously tanned back, you can feel confident wearing spaghetti straps, tank tops, strapless dresses, and other summery looks. Or, you can show off your golden skin in your favorite bikini at the beach or by the pool. Good luck with your application, and do not give up if it is a little tricky. A self-tanned back takes some trial and error.
The team at Jergens skincare is here to help you get sun-kissed, gorgeous skin. With our sunless tanning product lines, you can safely get your sunless glow and avoid damaging your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. We can also help you get the perfect bronzed look for each part of your body, including the hard-to-reach back. Once you master the technique of tanning your back, make sure you follow our self- tanning tips for maintaining your look after using self-tanner.
