For a perfectly even, golden glow, choosing the right self-tanner is essential. But there are also some tools of the trade that will help you get even better results! The days of slapping on your bronzing mousse with your bare hands are over (thank goodness), and there are mitts, applicators and other amazing self tanning accessories that will make your job a whole lot easier. Ensuring you don’t get streaky or miss a spot – even on those hard-to-tan areas like your back.
To learn about the four essential items every glow-getter needs in their kit, read on. Here are the self tanning tools that’ll ensure you nail a perfect tan. Every single time.
#1 Kabuki Brushes
Perhaps the best-kept secret among tanning pros, kabuki brushes are the key to a flawless tan. You’re probably already using one to apply at least one of your makeup prods. But they’re also super-handy for self-tanning!
Why? Because the flexible bristles allow them to get into all the most awkward nooks and crannies. Making them an amazing tool for tanning your face, hands, feet – and anywhere else you struggle with.
To achieve the perfect, streak-free tan our Limited Edition Face and Body Kabuki Brushes is the way to go. Designed specifically for contouring and coverage, the round dome-shape of our Face Kabuki Brush effortlessly reaches those hard-to-reach areas for an even, contoured finish. The Body Kabuki Brush, with its custom-curved design, blends self-tanner seamlessly for an all-over, streak-free glow. Simply apply a pea-sized amount of self-tanner, then buff it into your skin in a circular motion for a luxuriously smooth and even application.
#2 Tanning Mitt
Once you’ve experienced the magic of a tanning mitt, trust us – you’ll never go back. Perhaps the most essential of all tanning accessories, a mitt saves you a lot of time (and tears) by allowing you to use smooth, sweeping strokes – without your tan gathering on any dry areas. Not only does this allow you to apply a mousse or lotion much faster, it also dramatically reduces the chance of any muddy spots and nasty streaks.
Better still, a velvety tanning mitt will keep your hands, especially those palms, looking human-hued. Not an unnatural shade of orange. Make sure you choose one with a protective lining – like ours. Then just wash and air-dry it between tanning sessions, and you’re good to go.
#3 Back Tan Applicator
If you live alone or are not on intimate terms with your roomie, a back tan applicator is a total tanning lifesaver. (Unless you’re a contortionist, in which case you might be able to manage. But you’d still be better off with the even strokes an applicator allows.)
Most back tan applicators feature a similar design but ours comes in a hypoallergenic material. With the long, narrow stretch of velvety soft fabric and handles on each end, glide on your glow-to product systematically and effortlessly. Moving from side to side from the bottom to the top of your back.
Still not sure how to use one of these nifty tanning tools? Here’s a handy article we prepared earlier explaining exactly how to tan your back. And keep reading to find out how you can get an applicator free!
#4 Exfoliating Mitt
This wouldn’t be a tanning article if we didn’t stress the importance of thorough prep. Exfoliating away dry, dead skin cells a day or two before tanning is crucial if you want an even tan that lasts as long as possible.
While body scrubs can be used for this, an exfoliating mitt makes the job super easy. And they can be used even on the day of tanning, whereas it’s best to scrub 24 hours before to ensure there are no oils left on the skin that could interfere with your colour.
In our signature hot pink, the Coco & Eve Deluxe Exfoliating Mitt is the perfect way to slough away the dull stuff. Or remove all traces of leftover tan before applying a fresh new coat.
For more tanning tips and tricks, make sure you check out the blog!
Written By: Pip Jarvis
Edited by: Iris