If you’re like me, then your skin is dry and flaky. And while I’ve always had a problem with being pale, my dry skin has been the cause of many problems over the years. The worst part about having dry skin is trying to find self-tanners that work for my type of complexion! In this blog post, we’ll discuss different types of Best Self-Tanners for Dry Skin that will help you look tan all year round without looking orange or streaky!
What are Self-Tanners?
Self-tanners are great for adding a temporary tan to your skin. They’re all over the place these days, and you can find them at most pharmacies or beauty stores.
The best part about self tanners is that they dry quickly (within minutes) so there’s no waiting around before putting clothes on after applying it.
What are the active ingredients of self-tanners?
Self-tanners contain an active ingredient called dihydroxyacetone, or DHA for short. DHA is derived from sugar cane and works to produce a golden color on your skin by reacting with the dead cells at the surface.
The more dead cells your body has (the drier your skin) the darker the tan; therefore, people with dry skin tend to notice the color darker than others. This is what gives them their bad rap of looking unnatural and feeling quite uncomfortable throughout the day.
How to Use Self-Tanner?
If you’re new to self tanners, it’s important that you start with a light coat of the product. It is easy to over apply and end up looking streaky or orange if not careful! If you want an even tan all over your body, then I recommend applying in sections by first applying to one leg, then the other. Keep doing this until you’ve covered your entire body!
Be sure to wear gloves when applying self-tanner as it can stain hands and nails if not careful. Also be generous with products around ankles, wrists, knees and elbows! These are areas of skin that are more prone to staining.
How Long Does Self Tanner Last?
Once you’ve applied self-tanner, it’ll take about an hour to dry completely. After that point, your tan should last anywhere from one week to a month depending on the brand of self tanners you’re using!
What Type of Tan is Best for Dry Skin?
Lately, I’ve been loving the MATTE finish for self-tanners. The matte formula is great because it’s not shiny and doesn’t transfer onto my clothes!
My favorite type of tanner with a matte finish that works well on dry skin is: St Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse.
This stuff goes on white, so that’s why it’s important to use gloves. You can get this tanner at Amazon or any online store!
The Different Types Of Self-tanners?
There are three types of self-tanners used for tanning the body: solution, mousse and foam.
- Solution is water-based and often contains DHA. It provides an even application and is the easiest to use when it comes to covering hard-to-reach areas such as your back or feet.
- Mousse is a thicker version of the solution, which holds color for longer than traditional solution. It can cover several parts of the body in one session and doesn’t need to be washed off.
- Foam is thicker, waterproof and gives a streak-free tan. It’s good for difficult areas such as the back or feet and doesn’t need to be rinsed off after going through the drying cycle. The biggest drawback of foam spray tans is that you can’t adjust it once you have sprayed your entire body.
Top Picks for Best Self-Tanners for Dry Skin
1. St Tropez Bronzing Mousse (MATTE)
St Tropez Bronzing Mousse is my favorite tanner for dry skin because it’s matte, easy to apply and dries quickly. It also has a great brown tone that doesn’t turn orange on me over time!
2. Bondi Sands Liquid Gold Self Tan
This self-tanner works wonders on your face since it’s tinted. It has a fast drying time and is really easy to apply!
3. Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer
If you want an all over tan, then I recommend this product because it’s so easy to use. You can find it at any pharmacy or grocery store! There are also other formulas that are even better for dry skin!
4. Golden Star Beauty Self-Tanner
This is a great product for those of you who don’t want to wear gloves! It’s also not too expensive and easy to find.
5. L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Towelettes
These are pretty self explanatory, but I think they’re great for quick touch ups if needed throughout the day!
6. Vichy Moisturizing Self-Tanning Milk
This self tanner is great for dry skin because it hydrates your skin while giving you an even, natural-looking tan!
7. Lancome Flash Bronzer
I think this product gives the best glow to my face. It dries quickly and doesn’t transfer onto clothes which makes it perfect for all over use!
8. Sisley Paris Self-Tanning Hydrating Facial Skin Care
This is another moisturizing self-tanner that works well for dry skin! It leaves your face with a natural glow and doesn’t transfer onto clothes or pillows.
9. Supergoop! Healthy Glow Sunless Tan SPF 40
This is another great moisturizing self-tanner with a matte finish. It’s infused with antioxidants and SPF 40 to give you extra protection from the sun!
10. Tan-Luxe Super Glow
This self-tanner is fast drying, doesn’t transfer onto clothes and gives you a natural golden brown tan!
11. Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel
This gel goes on clear so it’s perfect for those of us who want an even glow without leaving marks all over our body. My favorite thing about this product though is the way it smells! It has a lavender scent which is so soothing.
12. L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Pro Perfecting Primer
I use this primer before applying self-tanner because it’s tinted and helps even out your skin tone as you apply the tanner. If you have dry patches, then be sure to exfoliate before use!
Tips on How to Avoid Dry Skin
- First Step is to Drink More Water! I’ve found that when my skin gets dry it’s because of dehydration. Try drinking at least three liters of water per day and you’ll see a difference in your skin within the first week!
- Second Tip is to Eat Lots Of Healthy Fatty Acids! Foods like salmon and avocados are great for dry skin because they’re loaded with omega-fatty acids which moisturize your body from the inside out!
- Third Tip is to Use a Good Moisturizer After Showering. I’ve found that using a gentle, fragrance-free lotion right after showering helps my skin stay hydrated for longer!
- Fourth Tip is to Use Oil-Free Makeup. I’ve noticed that my skin gets dry when I use makeup with oil in it, so try switching out your usual foundation for an oil-free one and you’ll see a difference within days!
- Fifth tip is to Stay Out of the Sun/Use Sunscreen! Dry skin makes your face more prone to wrinkles and lines, so try staying out of the sun or wearing a good sunscreen when you do go outside.
Why does it matter if you have dry or oily skin?
It’s a common myth that people with oily skin can apply a self-tanner without worries of having an orange result. The truth is, even though self-tanners do not directly stain the skin (an important fact to remember), they can still leave you with an orange glow if your body has already tanned itself before you apply the product.
This is why it’s best to make sure your skin is as dry as possible before application. Also, be aware that those with dry skin who do not moisturize or exfoliate properly before self-tanner application will have the same orange glow.
Dry, flaky skin also makes it more likely for a streak to occur when applying a self-tanner. When it comes time to reveal your new golden shade, you’ll want your tan to look even and natural. Dry, flaky skin is the perfect recipe for an uneven tan.
Benefits of using self-tanners
The main benefit of using self-tanner is that it gives you a golden glow without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays from the sun.
A secondary added benefit of using self-tanners is that they come in many different shades and formulas so you can pick one specifically for your type of skin!
Some people choose not to use self-tanner because they’re afraid of the harmful chemicals tanning beds give off. To those people, I say that it’s much safer to apply a self-tanner before bed than to sit in front of an ultraviolet light for hours at a time!
Why should you avoid using self-tanners?
One common reason why some people choose not to use self-tanners is that they’re afraid of the chemicals in them. If you have sensitive skin, then yes it’s best to avoid using a self-tanner because these products often contain harsh ingredients like DHA and bronzers!
Another reason why some people choose not to use self-tanners is simply out of fear of the tanning process. Some people (myself included) are afraid that they’ll end up with an orange glow or streak because their body hasn’t self-tanned before application, but this is why it’s so crucial to make sure your skin is dry and exfoliated!
The last reason people don’t use self-tanners is because they don’t want to commit. I know that some people are content with their natural skin tone, but if you’re looking for an easy way to fake a golden glow then self-tanner will be perfect!
FAQs
What causes dry skin?
When your skin is dry, it’s usually caused by the lack of water in your body. This can be due to many reasons including not drinking enough water or eating too few fatty acids!
What are the benefits of using a self-tanner?
There are so many benefits when you use a self tanner! Besides making you look tanner, it also moisturizes your skin which is great for dry areas!
What are the different types of self-tanners?
There are many different types of self tanners out there including lotions and mousses. I recommend looking at my top picks above to find one that works best for you!
How do I avoid dry skin when self-tanning?
A great tip to avoid dry skin is to use a good moisturizer right after showering and before applying your tanner! This will help lock in all the moisture from the lotion you just used.
How do I prevent my hands from getting stained while using a self-tanner?
A great tip to avoid tanning your hands while using a self-tanner is to wear gloves or use an old pair of socks on each hand! This will keep all the color off and save you from having stained palms.
When should I exfoliate?
It’s vital to exfoliate before self-tanner application because it helps ensure your tan looks smooth and even. Besides preparing your body for a streak-less tan, exfoliation also removes dead skin cells and any excess flakes, allowing the self-tanner to get right down to business.
How much water should I drink?
Most people don’t realize that drinking 1 liter of water (nearly 34 ounces) will help your skin become more hydrated, which is crucial for a successful self-tan application. Dehydration can cause your skin to appear overly dry which will make it much harder for the self-tanner to work its magic.
How do I moisturize?
Keeping skin hydrated is key, not only to keep your tan looking fresh for longer but also because it keeps the DHA from reacting with your dead cells. Applying a moisturizer right after exfoliating will help ensure your skin is properly hydrated.
If you find that the moisturizer you are using before tanner isn’t working, you can also try a hydrating body mist or spray in order to keep the DHA from reacting with dry skin cells. Be aware though that in case of sprays, it may affect how well the self-tanner color develops.
What is a good moisturizer?
A thick, hydrating vitamin E cream is a great product to keep your skin properly hydrated for up to 24 hours. The thicker the lotion, the more likely it will stay on your skin and not be rubbed off easily from clothing or sheets. If you’re using a tanning mitt, this is especially important.
If your skin is dry, opt for a lotion to make sure the hydration from the moisturizer isn’t rubbed off easily from clothing or sheets. If you prefer a mousse, be very careful when applying to ensure no areas are missed and go lighter on your wrists and ankles where skin tends to become drier.
