A good self tan should not look orange or fake. It should blend into your own skin tone and give a soft, sun-kissed glow.
The result is about more than the product alone. The right formula, amount, skin prep and calm application make the biggest difference.
Why does self tan turn orange?
Orange tones often happen when the colour is too intense for the skin tone, when too much product is applied, or when dry areas absorb more colour.
Old uneven self tan, the wrong development time or a formula that does not suit your undertone can also make the result look less natural.
That is why we recommend thin layers and gradual build-up instead of aiming for the darkest possible tan on the first application.
Choose self tan by the result you want
For a natural result, start with your own skin tone and experience level. Beginners often do best with gradual tan or a lighter mousse.
Clear mousse suits you if you want to avoid guide colour while still getting an even, natural tone. A mousse with guide colour can help when you want to see exactly where you have applied.
For the face, a lighter gradual routine usually gives a softer result than using the same amount of product as on the body.
Prep the skin for even colour
Exfoliate around 24 hours before application. Pay extra attention to elbows, knees, ankles, hands and other dry areas.
Shave or wax ideally 24 hours before. Right before application, skin should be clean, dry and free from oils or heavy creams.
Moisturise dry areas in advance, but avoid a rich cream all over the body immediately before applying self tan.
Apply less than you think
A common mistake is using too much product. Work in thin, even layers and build the colour at your next application if you want more depth.
Always use a mitt on the body. On hands, feet, knees and elbows, the product left on the mitt is often enough.
Let the product dry properly and follow the development time. Water, sweat and tight clothing too early can disturb the result.
Common mistakes that make self tan look less natural
Skipping prep, applying on dry skin or layering new product over old uneven colour makes a natural finish harder to achieve.
A product that is too dark on the first try can also look harsh. Start softly, especially if you have fair skin or are new to self tan.
Do not forget hands and feet. They often reveal self tan when too much product is used or the edges are not blended.
Scandibrown's routine for a natural result
- 1Exfoliate 24 hours before.
- 2Moisturise dry areas such as knees, elbows, hands and feet.
- 3Choose product by desired result and start lighter rather than too dark.
- 4Apply a thin, even layer with a mitt.
- 5Let the colour develop according to the product instructions.
- 6Moisturise daily so the colour fades evenly.
