Self-Tanning Tips for Glowy, Sun-Kissed Skin – No UV Necessary!

There’s nothing quite like the glow and confidence you get from a tan. But for people with fair or sensitive skin, achieving flawless, sun-kissed can be a bit of a challenge – not to mention, ultra-violet (UV) exposure from the sun and/or tanning beds not only damages skin but can also have severe health consequences. In fact, about 86% of melanoma cases are directly linked to UV radiation. 

So, how do you achieve a gorgeous, natural-looking tan without exposing your skin to harmful radiation? There are actually some healthy tanning options out there that won’t put your skin and health at risk. The secret to that healthy-skin glow? Sunless tanner! 

Get that gorgeous summer glow with a safe alternative to tanning. To help you achieve a flawless, sunless tan, here are our expert tips on applying self-tanner. But first, let’s take a look at why a tanning mousse is a much safer alternative to overexposure to sunshine and UV radiation from tanning beds.

Tanning Health Risks

Sunlight has many benefits for human health, including facilitating the production of vitamin D, boosting bone health, preventing disease and promoting mental wellness. However, prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can be detrimental to our skin. Tanning is linked to many health risks like sunburn, skin damage (like wrinkles, dark spots, leathery skin and premature aging), eye damage and even immune system suppression.

At the top of the list? Skin cancer: the most commonly diagnosed cancer globally. In the United States alone, more than 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer daily, and a fifth of Americans will develop the disease by their 70th birthday. The vast majority of skin cancer cases are caused by sun exposure.

Experts insist that the words “sun tan” and “safe tan” are mutually exclusive. Any change in skin color following UV ray exposure – whether it comes from natural sunlight or an artificial source – is a sign that damage has already occurred.

Are Self-Tanners Safe?

Even a few hours in the sun or a single indoor tanning session can increase your risk of melanoma. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends avoiding UV tanning completely and opt for sunless tanners or spray tans instead. However, even spray tans pose potential inhalation risks. If safety is your upmost concern, opt for a self-tanner. 

Not only are sunless tanners harmless, but innovations have led to more realistic results that also nourish, hydrate and rejuvenate your skin. So, if you’ve tried self-tanners before and weren’t happy with the streaky or orange finish, it’s time to give sunless tanner another go. You might to surprised to find just how natural-looking the formula is.

How Does Self-Tanner Work?

While the days of blissfully heading to the beach with a bottle of baby oil are behind us, this doesn’t mean the quest for the perfect tan is over. Self-tanners deliver that perfect sun-kissed glow without exposure to UV rays.

Sunless tanners contain an active ingredient called DHA (dihydroxyacetone). This coloring agent combines with the skin’s amino acids to trigger a reaction that tints the keratin in your skin. Unlike normal tanning, this occurs only on the skin’s outermost (and dead) cell layers, and does not penetrate (or damage) new, healthy skin cells. 

Self tanners can also be used for sculpting and contouring, to give your body that toned look.

How Long Does Self-Tanner Last?

Many factors impact the duration of a self-tan, ranging from the formula to the application process. For the best results, be sure to exfoliate, shave, and moisturize before applying. 

Do I Still Need Sunscreen?

While many people assume that self-tanners contain sunscreen, this is not usually the case. It’s best to maintain a routine of using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. In general, sunscreen should be the last step in your daily skincare routine.

How to Apply Self Tanner

Wondering how and where to apply self-tanner? When it comes to getting a consistent and long-lasting tan, the application process matters a LOT. Here are our self tanning tips and tricks for the best results:

• Always prep your skin first – wash, exfoliate, moisturize and dry.
• Apply in small sections using a circular motion.
• Wash your hands between each section to prevent tell-tale orange palms, or use a tanning mit.
• Lightly extend tanner at wrists and ankles to blend for the most natural look.
• Use sparingly on dry joint areas like the ankles, knees, and elbows.
• Pat off any excess product with a towel.
• Wait a minimum of 10 minutes before getting dressed.
• Wear loose clothing and avoid sweating for at least three hours.
• Avoid showering or getting wet for at least 12 hours.
• Moisturize daily to keep your tan fresh.
• Reapply every few days to maintain your glow.

The Best Self Tanner Is Clean, Safe AND Effective

All self-tanning products aren’t created equal. Which begs the question: with so many options out there, which self-tanner should you use? Launching in May of 2023, Neora’s GLOW-GETTER 3-in-1 Sunless Tanning Mousse offers everything a good self-tanner should, and more!

Developed with vegan, eco-certified DHA, this multi-function self-tanner for face and body is a flawless summer glow in a bottle! Our 3-in-1 natural formula is loaded with peptides, essential oils, amino acids and vitamin E adding up to sculpting, hydration and protection, all in one lightweight, streak-proof self-tanner suitable for all skin tones.

This next-level tanning mousse is our secret weapon for contouring areas like the cheekbones, jawline, collarbone and décolletage, rib cage, legs, abs, arms and more. Because GLOW-GETTER is chemical-free, it’s also free of the noxious odor many people associate with self-tanners.Thanks to this groundbreaking sunless tanner from Neora, there’s never been a better time to step out of the sun than right now. Learn more about Neora’s age-defying skincare and wellness products here.