Sunless Tanning: How to Apply Natural Fake Tan Products

The UK is not blessed with the being the sunniest or warmest country to live in, so us British beauties *might* need a little helping hand to give us that golden glow. The safest, and quickest way of doing this is grabbing that bottle of fake tan. So here are our top tips for applying natural fake tan products, and which products we believe are the best.

Which natural fake tan products to choose?

Synthetic fragrance, artificial colours and dyes, parabens and GMO’s are all present in most fake tans you find on the market. Natural fake tan products that don’t contain these ingredients are much better for the skin, the environment and our health in general. By not exposing yourself to the sun’s damaging rays, or the synthetic chemicals present in most of the self tan products on the market, you are setting yourself up for your healthiest skin yet.

To achieve a golden glow and trick anyone into thinking you’ve already been away on that week’s holiday to Spain, whilst looking after your skin, we suggest these products:

Eco by Sonya

Winter Skin - For a light, gradual tan in an easy to apply lotion.

This is for those with fair to light skin who want just a subtle golden tan. This gradual tanning moisturiser builds up colour over 2-3 days. We suggest applying this onto dry skin every morning after showering, and reapplying every other day. You will maintain a gorgeous tan that still looks natural.

Cacao Firming Mousse - For a fast developing tan and light mousse texture.

This develops a little quicker than other tanning products so it’s perfect if you are in a hurry! The mousse texture is easy to use and feels weightless on the skin. You will see the colour develop in 1 hour, but you can leave the tan on for up to 4 hours for a deeper colour. Rinse off once your desired level of tan has been achieved.

Invisible Tan - An overnight tan that develops a deep bronze, long lasting colour.

This rich cream develops overnight into a deep, golden bronze shade. We recommend this for seasoned self tanners or those who want a darker colour. Massage this onto the skin, leave to dry before settling into bed and wake up to golden, bronzed skin and rinse off in your morning shower. Be aware that this *may* transfer onto the sheets a little if the moisturiser has not sunk into the skin, but it washes out of fabric easily. 

Hempitan - A spray on tan in a super dark shade.

This spray on tan is suitable for those who want a dark tan in the quickest time. Shake the bottle well to mix the ingredients, spray on and watch it develop over the next hour and then rinse off. The tan will continue to develop over the next 24 hours. The main ingredient in this natural self tan is organic hemp seed oil, making it super hydrating, softening and anti-ageing for the skin.

Face Tan Water - Self tanning water for the face that hydrates and heals acne.

Many of us need to be extra careful with the products we use on our face due to the risk of clogged pores. Often lotions and rich creams can be the culprit if your skin is acne prone or oily. With this tanning water, you can achieve a natural golden glow, whilst fighting acne and hydrating the skin. The non comedogenic ingredients ensure there is no risk of causing clogged pores. Apply the Face Tan Water just like you would a toner, sweep it over the skin with a reusable face cloth every morning or evening for a few days and it will develop into a natural looking tan.

How to Apply Natural Fake Tan Products.

Step 1: Exfoliate at least 24-48 hours prior to application. With natural fake tan, it is important to still have some dead skin cells for the product to adhere to, so make sure you leave some time between exfoliating and applying your self tan. We love the Eco by Sonya Pink Himalayan Salt Scrub for a really effective exfoliation.

Step 2: Apply your chosen tan to clean, dry skin, following the instructions for that specific tan. Use the Eco by Sonya Tan Application Mitt for best results. This mitt works with all types of tanning products from lotions, to mousses, to spray on liquids.

Step 3: To maintain your tan and keep your skin hydrated. Moisturise with a body lotion that won’t affect the results of your tan. The Eco by Sonya Coconut Body Milk is an unscented, ultra hydrating, coconut oil based lotion that can be used daily to prolong the colour of your tan. Some of our customers have had great results from using this on their eczema, psoriasis and chronic dry skin.