How to fake tan your face

Here’s how to get a sun-kissed complexion without the harmful rays! Fake tanning your face is like a magical transformation, giving you that beautiful post-holiday shine. Say goodbye to dullness and hello to a luminous complexion that will have everyone wondering what your secret is.

With a touch of fake tan on your face, you can achieve a healthy, natural-looking tan all year round. Whether you want a subtle boost or a bold bronzed look, fake tanning your face is the ultimate beauty hack for a flawless and golden-brown appearance. Embrace the streak-free, radiant glow with our top tips for perfecting the art of fake tanning your face.

How to prep your face for fake tan

Preparing your canvas is essential to achieving an even and long-lasting tan. So, before diving headfirst into the world of fake tan, let's talk about prepping your face for a flawless application. From exfoliating and cleansing to application and moisturising, we run you through our top tips for how to fake tan.

Exfoliate your face the day before application

Exfoliating your face before applying fake tan is the best way to give your skin a fresh base for a flawless self-tan. By removing dead skin cells and impurities, you create a smooth and even surface that allows the self-tanner to adhere better and prevent patchiness. The best way to achieve the perfect base is to use a gentle exfoliating scrub or a soft-bristle brush to massage your face in circular motions, paying attention to areas like the forehead, nose and chin. This not only helps remove dead skin cells, but also promotes blood circulation, leaving your skin looking revitalised.

Cleanse your face right before applying fake tan

The next step is to cleanse your face thoroughly. This step is essential to remove any dirt, oil or makeup residue that could interfere with the self-tanner application and result in an uneven finish. Choose a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type and rinse with lukewarm water, avoiding hot water that can strip away natural oils. Next, pat your face dry with a clean towel, making sure it’s completely dry before applying the fake tan.

Now that you’ve given yourself a clean canvas, you’ve set the stage for a smooth and seamless application.

Apply Vaseline on your brows and hairline

But don't forget about your brows and hairline! Applying a thin layer of Vaseline to these areas acts as a protective barrier, preventing the fake tan from clinging to your eyebrows or staining your hairline – especially if you’re blonde. Gently rub a small amount of Vaseline onto your eyebrows and hairline, making sure to cover every hair.

Moisturise your face where needed

The final step of preparation is moisturising your face to ensure a smooth and even application. Hydrated skin is the perfect base for fake tan, preventing it from clinging to dry patches and resulting in streaks or uneven colour. Reach for your favourite lightweight, oil-free moisturiser and apply it generously all over your face, including your neck. Allow some time for the moisturiser to fully absorb before proceeding with the fake tan application.

Not only does moisturising provide a nourishing base for the fake tan, but it also helps extend the longevity of your tan, keeping your skin hydrated and radiant.

Apply fake tan to face

Now that you’ve achieved the perfect base, you’re ready to apply your favourite fake tanning product. Begin by applying a small amount of our self-tanner to the centre of your face and blend it outward in gentle, circular motions using your fingertips or makeup sponge. Pay close attention to areas like the forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, and, of course, your neck for a seamless transition. Use a light hand and gradually build up the colour to avoid any harsh lines, uneven patches or unsightly streaks.

Whether you opt for our self-tan drops, mousse, milk or water, with careful application and a little practice you can achieve an effortlessly flawless finish.

Wait for the tan to develop

After applying fake tan to your face, give it time to develop and work its magic. So, patience is key! Of course, avoid touching or rubbing your face to prevent smudging or uneven colour distribution. And make sure to give it plenty of time for your fake tan to dry completely before coming into contact with any fabrics or water.

Whether you’ve gone for our 1-hour express tan or our gradual tanning waters, it’s generally recommended to leave the tan on for a few hours or overnight for the best results.

During this time, avoid sweating or engaging in activities that may cause excessive moisture on your face. Trust the process and let our self-tanners work their wonders, leaving you with a beautifully bronzed complexion that radiates with a natural, sun-kissed glow.

Moisturise

After applying your tan, regularly hydrate your skin with a nourishing moisturiser. Opt for a lightweight formula that won't interfere with the tan's colour. This aftercare stage is essential in maintaining the longevity of your tan by preventing dryness and flakiness, which can lead to patchiness and fading. Make sure to focus on areas that are typically drier, such as elbows, knees and ankles. Moisturising daily will help extend the life of your tan and keep your skin looking smooth, supple and glowing.

So, lather up and let your tan shine with confidence.

Top up when needed

When your fake tan starts to fade, fear not! Keep it topped up with one of our gradual tanning products – designed to enhance and extend the life of your tan. Apply them regularly to maintain a natural-looking glow. Remember to exfoliate before reapplying to ensure an even canvas. Additionally, avoid excessive exfoliation and hot showers, as these can accelerate tan fading. With a little TLC and a touch of fake tan, you can keep your post-holiday glow all year round.

With our fake tan tips and tricks, you're now armed with the knowledge to achieve a flawless glow on your face. Embrace your inner radiance and get ready to turn heads with a wonderfully tanned face that exudes confidence and a touch of summer all year round.