When Should You Self-Tan Before an Event?

Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, photoshoot, prom, or special night out, the secret to a flawless glow often comes down to timing. To achieve a beautiful sun-kissed glow, when you apply your self-tanner is the difference between glowing, smooth skin and streaks, fading, or the self-tanner rubbing off on your clothes before the event. Here are tips on timing your self-tanning routine so you look and feel your absolute best when the big day arrives.

How Long Before an Event Should You Self-Tan?

For the most natural-looking glow, apply Brown Bee’s self-tanner two days before your event. Applying self-tanner two days before the event gives the color enough time to fully develop and settle into your skin. Using self-tanner too close to your event increases the risk of color transferring onto your clothes, leaving uneven patches, or a tan that looks undeveloped. If you apply self-tanner too early, your tan may fade before the event starts.

Self-Tanner Prep: 48 Hour Before Your Event

A flawless self-tan starts with smooth, prepped skin. About 48-hours before applying Brown Bee’s self-tanner, take time to properly prep your skin. Here are self-tanner prep steps:

• Exfoliate⎯Scrub away dead skin cells with an exfoliating mitt to prevent ingrown hairs and to make sure the self-tanner is applied on smooth and even skin. Be sure to exfoliate thoroughly, especially on drier areas like your elbows, knees, and ankles.

• Hair Removal⎯Shave or wax 48-hours before applying self-tanner. If you remove hair right before applying self-tanner, the product can settle into open pores, causing small, dark dots on the skin.

When you shower, use warm water instead of hot because hot water strips the skin of its natural oils and can cause your tan to fade faster. When you step out of the shower, gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing your skin.

How to Apply Self-Tanner Properly 24-Hours Before Your Event

Right before you apply Brown Bee’s self-tanner, use an oil-free moisturizer all over your body, including your hands, feet, elbows, and knees. The lotion acts as a barrier so those dry spots don’t absorb too much product and turn darker than the rest of your body. Hydration locks in the color and keeps your skin looking fresh and radiant.

After you’ve moisturized, use an application mitt and apply the self-tanner in long, sweeping motions to make sure the self-tanner is evenly applied. After applying self-tanner:

• Wear loose, dark clothing.

• Avoid sweating or water exposure.

• Wait the recommended time before rinsing off.

Self-Tanning Tips for Weddings & Photos

Here are self-tanning tips for weddings, professional photos, and formal events.

• Choose a natural-looking shade.

• Avoid going a lot darker than your natural skin tone.

• Blend carefully around hands, feet, knees, and hairline.

Camera flashes and professional lighting can sometimes highlight uneven areas, so a subtle, even tan usually looks best.

How You Make Your Self-Tan Last Long After an Event

To make your self-tan last long after an event, keep your skin hydrated and avoid anything that will break down the color too quickly (e.g., hot baths and showers, harsh chemicals, oil-based moisturizers). Moisturize daily with an oil-free moisturizer to help maintain an even fade and prevent patchiness. When showering, use lukewarm water and a sulfate-free body wash to avoid stripping the tan. With the right aftercare, your glow can last longer and fade gradually for a natural look. Shop all Brown Bee self-tanning products and accessories.

FAQs

Can I self-tan the same day as an event?

Self-tanning the day of an event isn’t recommended. The tan may still be developing and can transfer onto clothing or look too intense. 

How long does it take for a self-tanner to fade?

The tan lasts approximately 6 to 10 days, as the color develops on dead skin cells that are naturally renewed. To extend the longevity of your self-tan, keep the skin moisturized daily and take short showers. Shaving, waxing, exfoliating, prolonged swimming, or applying perfume directly to the décolletage may shorten its duration.

Can you shave with self-tanner on?

You should avoid shaving when you have self-tanner on because it can remove the color unevenly and cause patchiness. For the best results, shave before applying self-tanner. If you need to shave after tanning, be gentle, and expect some fading in those areas.

Should I shower before using self-tanner?

Showering before application removes sweat, oils, and residue so the self-tanner goes on smoothly and evenly. For best results, shower a few hours before or the night before.