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Your most frequently asked at-home tanning questions answered

From finding the right shade to removing without all the harsh scrubbing, we’ve been asked them all! 

We’re answering your most frequently asked questions about self-tanning to help you take your skills from casual to glow getting pro in time for the next application.

  

Why are there different colours to choose from?

Having choice when choosing your colour bases allows you to match your tan to your natural skin undertones. This is the key to a natural looking tan with no Oompa Loompa orange in sight! 

We get that traditionally, finding your perfect shade has been a confusing task which is why we’ve simplified the whole process and created two customised shades: Violet Dark Choc and Dark Mocha. 

For our babes with olive/yellow undertones or those that tan easily, Violet Dark Choc is your go-to. 

For the beauties with cool/pink undertones that have difficulty tanning, Dark Mocha is your answer to a sun-kissed glow. 

To save you having bottles upon bottles of tan for every occasion, all you need to do is switch up how long your Bella Bronze Self-Tanning Mousse is left on for before washing off! Hours 1, 2 and 3 will take you from a light sun kissed glow to deep bronze. 

 

Will I still tan in the sun with self-tanner on? 

It’s still important (like so important) to maintain proper sun protection even when you’ve applied self-tanner. Self-tanner does not provide any UVA or UVB protection so whilst we’re obsessed with your gorgeous glow, we’re not so keen on the long-term effects of sun damage. 

 

Why are my knuckles going so much darker than the rest of my hands? 

It’s all in the application, babe! Areas of the body like your knuckles have the tenancy to go darker because they’re traditionally a drier area of skin. 

Before applying your self-tanner, give areas like your knuckles, elbows, hands and feet a hit of hydration with moisturiser. Begin by tanning the key places like your arms, legs and body and come back to the tricky areas last - this gives the moisturiser time to settle in. With the leftover product on your mitt (and nothing more), swiftly blend the remaining tan into these areas. 

If you’re ever having trouble with these areas, tools like our Luxe Tanning Brush can assist in blending a light tan across stubborn areas. 

 

My tan is settling into the pores on my legs. Help!

Oh no! Let’s take a look at your self-tanning prep. Whilst everyone has their own secret to the perfect at-home glow, the timing of exfoliation is definitely up there for everyone. Exfoliation makes way for fresher, new and younger skin cells that keep your skin looking fresh, healthy and vibrant. It also creates the perfect canvas for your tan. 

Firstly, it sounds like you may be tanning too soon after your exfoliation. If you can exfoliate 8-24 hours prior to your tan. If it’s time for your weekly Thursday night tan (if you know, you know), then exfoliate the night before or the morning of. The same goes for if you’d like to shave.

You don’t need to search for the most high-end exfoliator but make sure that whatever you choose is an oil free formulation. Oil and self-tanner do not vibe and can interfere with the tan’s development. 

 

Will my at-home tan last as long as a salon one?

Absolutely! It’s all about how you care for your skin after tanning. With tan-loving habits, expect your glow to stay put for at least 7 days. 

Firstly, drink up (and we don’t mean 2-for-1 margaritas!). Hydration from within is the BFF of a long-lasting, glowing tan. Pair your healthy habits with a skincare ritual that is free of nasties like fragrance and mineral oils. Apply a hydrating moisturiser morning and night (like our ultra-hydrating and nourishing Grapefruit and Vanilla Moisturiser) and be sure to avoid rubbing your skin with towels after showering or in the gym. 

 

What are your best tan removal tips? 

When it’s time to send off your bronze (until next week of course!), don’t run to the nearest harsh scrub or tan remover. Your skin doesn’t love the unnecessary irritation, trust us.

If you’ve been practicing good post-tan habits, your tan removal process should be stress free. Our 2-in-1 Exfoliating Mitt will help show your old tan the door whilst simultaneously awakening new skin cells.

If you’re still experiencing stubborn tan in areas, a soak in bicarb soda will do the trick! 

 

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s glow girls! Shop our collection of 100% all natural, vegan self-tanning solutions via our website now. 

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