Have you ever struggled to achieve an even, streak free look all over with your self tanner? Then this article is a MUST READ!

Contortionism Not Required

If applying self tanner has ever made you feel like you’re surviving a physical challenge with Bears Grylls, this article is for you. Especially when it comes to difficult areas like your back, knees and feet, you may be wondering how you can ever accomplish this feat! But don't worry - we're here to help. Follow these pro tips and you'll be a self-tanning genius in no time!

You'll notice that throughout this guide, we recommend a couple of additional tools, ie your survival gear. Trust us, they will make your life easier and your tan even more perfect, especially if you are applying solo. You'll wonder how you could have ever done it without these aids, and all your friends will think you’re spending big bucks on an airbrushed glow.

Application Mitts Save The Day

Getting even coverage can be an easy accomplishment when you use the right tools, like the application mitt that comes in our kits. This will result in a more natural-looking tan.

The mitt also prevents your hands from getting stained, and it makes it easier to apply self-tanner to hard-to-reach areas. Overall, using an application mitt is the best worry free way to achieve a smooth, even self-tan.

Evenly Self-Tan Your Back

If you have hopped on the fab-summer-dress-with-cutouts bandwagon, we have the secrets to showcasing your backside tan.

Just like other areas of your body, be sure to clean and exfoliate your entire back first. If you don't have anyone there to help, use a long-handled back exfoliator.

Now, how do you apply the self-tanner to your back?

Unless you have a cloning machine or secretly possess octopus arms (hey, the world needs superheroes), then you need this solution! Fake Bake has a brilliant solution with our self-tan back applicator, Body Mate 360°. This machine washable, microfiber mitt allows you to spread self-tanner evenly along your back and shoulders for a smooth, seamless glow and perfect distribution.

Just apply your favorite self-tanner to the Body Mate 360° Self-Tanning Applicatorand rub the mitt evenly over your entire back, using the convenient handles on each end to direct and control pressure. Start at the top and work your way down until you're satisfied with the result.

Tanning Your Face

Let’s be real: your face is the first thing people are going to notice. If the tan on your face doesn't match the rest of your body, you'll draw attention for all the wrong reasons. Follow these steps to get the perfect tan on your face every time:

Cleanse your face thoroughly. Use a mild cleanser and warm water to remove any oils, makeup, or dirt from your skin.

Exfoliate. It's important to prep your skin by exfoliating about 24 hours beforehand. This step helps to remove dead skin cells, smooth out rough patches and unclog pores, creating a more even surface for the self-tanner. We recommend using our In The Buff Exfoliating Mitt. It's two-sided, so you can use it with your left or right hand!

Apply moisturizer. This helps to create a smooth surface for the self-tanner to bond to. Dry patches of skin will absorb more self-tanner, and will end up looking streaky or patchy. Use it 3-4 hours before your tan application to get a deep, even glow, and then spray it on self-tanned skin to help maintain and lengthen your color.

Hands and Elbows - Getting Into Creases

Your hands and elbows are two of the most challenging areas to get right when you’re self tanning. That's because they're constantly in use and they have a lot of bends and creases.

We’ve already mentioned it once, but it is such a vital part in self tanning that it’s worth repeating: exfoliate regularly. This step will help to remove any dead skin cells and rough patches. Since these areas are prone to being really dry, always follow up with moisturizer to prevent your skin from absorbing too much product.

When you apply self-tanner, pay special attention to these areas and blend well. Our application mitt will come in “handy” here as well. Slightly bending elbows and knuckles will help stretch out your skin so you can get 100% coverage.

When tanning the tops of your hands, be sure to apply the self-tanner to areas that would naturally tan if you were out in the sun. Bending your fingers slightly will spread out the creases so you can get the entire knuckle, ensuring no little white lines are left.

PRO TIP: If you get the product on your fingernails or cuticles be sure to clean it off as quickly as possible. Makeup wipes work great for this.

Tanning Knees and Feet

Knees are especially problematic as they can easily come out too dark and look unnatural. Starting with a light layer is best, as you can always build up your self tanner application.

When tanning the tops of your feet, be sure to apply only to the areas that would naturally get tanned if you were out in the sun. Word of caution: Take it easy on your toes and the back of your heel, as these areas are prone to over-saturation.

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