Get That Vacation Glow—No Sun, No Orange, No Stickiness
A full body self tanner delivers a sun-kissed glow without UV exposure, orange streaks, or sticky residue. The best full body self-tanners are:
- Tinted tanning water – Water-light, quick-dry, and streak-free; works on every skin tone
- Customizable drops – Mix with moisturizer for buildable color; control your glow
- Application mitt – Double-sided design for even, streak-free blending
Top picks:
- Life Proof Tan by 3VERYBODY – Sweat/transfer-resistant tinted water; vegan, non-orange
- Tanning Drops by 3VERYBODY – Rosehip and cucumber-infused; paraben and palm oil-free
- 3VERYBODY Kit – Complete system with water, drops, and mitt for salon results at home
That just-back-from-the-beach look is totally achievable at home—no sun damage, no guessing, and no mess. The secret? A water-light, quick-dry formula that blends cleanly and actually stays put through sweat and sleep. Unlike other formulas that can feel sticky and unpredictable, tinted tanning water gives you a believable, natural-looking tan on every skin tone, from very fair to deep.
The science is simple: self-tanners use dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a sugar molecule that reacts with amino acids on your skin's surface to create temporary color. A 2024 research review confirms DHA is safe for topical use in the amounts found in modern self-tanners, though it may irritate very sensitive skin. Most self-tans last 5 to 10 days, fading naturally as your skin sheds.
Why prep matters: Exfoliating 24 hours before tanning removes dead skin cells, preventing patchiness. Moisturizing dry spots like knees, elbows, and ankles keeps them from soaking up too much color. And washing your hands immediately after application? Non-negotiable—unless you want orange palms.
I'm Emmy Bre, founder of 3VERYBODY, and I've spent over a decade testing nearly every full body self tanner on the market before creating formulas that actually work for every skin tone—no orange, no streaks, no transfer. Here's everything you need to know to get your most flawless, full-body tan ever.
Learn more about full body self tanner:
Your Pre-Tan Checklist: How to Prep for a Flawless Full Body Tan
A smooth, even tan starts before you spray. Think of it as priming a wall before you paint. Skipping these crucial steps can lead to streaks, patchiness, and a tan that fades unevenly. We want you to achieve that natural, sun-kissed look, and it all begins with proper preparation.
Exfoliate 24 hours before tanning: This is non-negotiable for a streak-free, long-lasting tan. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, which are the canvas for your self-tanner. If you apply tan over flaky skin, you'll end up with an uneven, patchy finish. We recommend a gentle body scrub or an oil-free cleanser with glycolic or salicylic acid. Focus on rough areas like elbows and knees. Remember to rinse thoroughly to remove any residue, leaving your skin clean and dry. For more on this essential step, check out our guide on why you should exfoliate before self-tan and how to exfoliate properly.
Shave if you want, but do it before you tan: Shaving acts as a form of exfoliation, so it's best to get it out of the way before you apply your full body self tanner. This helps smooth your skin and allows the tanner to go on more evenly. If you shave after tanning, you risk stripping away your freshly developed color, leading to a patchy fade.
Moisturize only dry spots (knees, elbows, ankles): While you want your skin to be clean and dry when applying self-tanner, certain areas tend to be drier and can absorb too much product, leading to darker, unnatural patches. Apply a thin layer of oil-free moisturizer to these specific dry zones—knees, elbows, ankles, and even around your nostrils. This creates a barrier, allowing the tanner to blend seamlessly. For a deeper dive into moisturizing, read our ultimate moisturize self-tan guide.
Get waxes or manicures done before tanning: Beauty treatments like waxing, manicures, and even hair coloring can strip your self-tan. As expert Anna Stankiewicz of Louise O'Connor Salon notes, "All of those treatments can remove self-tanner." So, plan ahead! Complete all your other beauty appointments at least 24 hours before your tanning session to protect your glow. This ensures your canvas is perfectly prepped and ready for a beautiful, long-lasting tan. Our Best-Practices-for-Prepping-Your-Skin-Before-Applying-Self-Tanner guide offers even more insights.
Why Tinted Tanning Water Wins: The 3VERYBODY Formula
When it comes to choosing a full body self tanner, the options can feel endless: lotions, drops, and sprays. But not all formulas are created equal. We're all-in on tinted tanning water for a reason, and once you try it, you'll understand why. It's truly a game-changer for a flawless, natural-looking tan.
Water-light, so it blends clean and dries in minutes: Our tinted tanning water feels like nothing on your skin. This water-light texture means it spreads effortlessly, blending seamlessly into every curve and contour of your body. Because it's not heavy or thick, it dries incredibly fast, often in minutes, allowing you to get on with your day without that dreaded sticky feeling. This quick-dry benefit is a huge plus, especially when you're tanning your full body.
Quick-dry and sheet-safe—no sticky waiting, no stains: We've all been there—applying a self-tanner only to spend hours waiting for it to dry, terrified of staining our clothes or sheets. Our tinted tanning water eliminates this anxiety. It's designed to be quick-dry and sheet-safe, meaning you won't have to worry about transfer onto your favorite pajamas or white bedding. This is a crucial feature for anyone wanting a truly hassle-free full body self tanner experience. Our formulas are engineered to be tan that doesn't transfer and self-tanner no transfer.
Streak-free, non-orange, and sweat/transfer-resistant: The biggest fear with self-tanning? Streaks and an unnatural orange hue. Our tinted tanning water is formulated to give you a natural, sun-kissed brown, never orange. The water-light consistency helps prevent streaks, and its sweat/transfer-resistant properties mean your tan stays put, even through daily activities. This gives you a confident, worry-free glow.
Looks natural on every skin tone, from very fair to deep: Inclusivity is at our core. We believe everyone deserves a beautiful, natural-looking tan. Our formulas are designed to adapt to your unique skin tone, creating a believable glow whether you have very fair, medium, or deep skin. We achieve this by focusing on high-quality DHA balanced with skin-loving ingredients, ensuring a universally flattering result. For more, explore our insights on inclusive skin tone skin type tans.
Packed with argan oil, cucumber oil, caffeine, and guarana extract for hydration and skin-firming: We don't just tan; we nourish. Our Life Proof Tan (tinted tanning water) is infused with powerful skincare ingredients. Argan oil and cucumber oil provide deep hydration, leaving your skin soft and supple. Caffeine and guarana extract are known for their skin-firming and brightening properties, giving you more than just color—they give you healthier-looking skin.
Vegan, cruelty-free, and free from parabens and sulfates: As a woman-owned brand, we're committed to clean beauty. Our products are vegan, cruelty-free, and carefully formulated without parabens or sulfates. You can feel good about what you're putting on your skin, knowing it's effective and ethical.
You might be asking, what is a self-tanning water? It's a way to tan!
Why choose a water-based tanner? A thinner, water-light layer blends cleaner, dries faster, and looks natural from very fair to deep skin. Other, thicker formulas can be harder to blend evenly across the full body and sometimes leave a residue that feels sticky or takes longer to dry. Our water-light approach ensures a seamless application and a comfortable, barely-there feel.
The 3VERYBODY Lineup: Full Body Self-Tanner, Your Way
We keep it simple and effective. Our goal is to provide you with the best tools for a flawless, natural-looking full body self tanner application right in your own home. We focus on water-light formulas and customizable options, steering clear of thicker formulas, which can sometimes be tricky for a truly streak-free finish.
The Complete At-Home System: 3VERYBODY Kit
For those who want salon-quality results without leaving their bathroom, our 3VERYBODY Kit brings together everything you need for a comprehensive and flawless full body self tanner experience. It’s the ultimate starter kit and a favorite for seasoned tanners alike.
- Life Proof Tan (tinted tanning water): This is the star of the show. Our water-light, quick-dry formula is sweat/transfer-resistant, non-orange, and sheet-safe. It's enriched with nourishing ingredients like argan oil, cucumber oil, caffeine, and guarana extract, which not only contribute to a beautiful tan but also hydrate and firm your skin. It's vegan, cruelty-free, and free from parabens and sulfates, aligning with our commitment to clean beauty.
- Tanning Drops: For those days you want a little extra glow or to customize your color, our Tanning Drops are perfect. They mix seamlessly with your favorite moisturizer, serum, or oil, allowing you to build your desired depth of tan. Infused with rosehip oil and cucumber extract, these drops are also vegan and free from parabens, palm oil, and sulfates. This means you can achieve a natural glow without compromising your skincare routine. We have dedicated guides on how to apply self-tanning drops and how do tanning drops work.
- Tanning Mitt: The secret to any streak-free self-tan lies in the application tool. Our double-sided, washable mitt is designed for streak-free, even control, ensuring smooth and uniform coverage across your entire body. It's an essential part of preventing those tell-tale orange palms and ensuring a professional finish. Explore why a tanning mitt applicator is crucial.
As a woman-owned, inclusivity-first brand, we're proud that our products are creator-approved, including by HopeScope, for their effectiveness and natural results on all skin tones.
Life Proof Tan: For a Fast, Streak-Free, Full Body Glow
Imagine a full body self tanner that lets you spray, blend, and go. That's our Life Proof Tan. This tinted tanning water mists on for a natural, even tan that dries in minutes and won’t transfer to sheets or clothes. It's the ultimate solution for anyone looking for a quick and reliable glow that truly lasts. Its quick-dry nature means you don't have to wait around, making it perfect for busy schedules. This is also a great option for beginners because the tinted formula allows you to see exactly where you've applied it, preventing missed spots and streaks.
Tanning Drops: Customizable Color, Your Way
Our Tanning Drops are designed for ultimate flexibility. Whether you want a subtle hint of color or a deeper bronzed look, you're in control. Simply mix a few drops into your daily moisturizer, serum, or oil for a buildable glow. More drops equal a deeper tan. This is particularly useful for achieving a natural look on areas that might tan differently, like your face compared to your body. For instance, you might use 2-4 drops for your face and 6-8 drops per body section for a medium tan, adjusting as needed. This customization also makes them excellent for maintaining your tan or for those who prefer a gradual approach. You can learn more about how many tanning drops should I use for my face versus my body.
Tanning Mitt: The Secret to a Flawless Finish
We can't stress this enough: a good tanning mitt is your best friend for a flawless full body self tanner application. Our double-sided, washable mitt gives you total control for a streak-free, even tan every time. It protects your hands from staining and helps spread the product smoothly, especially important when covering larger areas like your back or legs. Without a mitt, achieving a truly even, non-streaky tan can be a challenge. We consider it an essential tool for any self-tanning routine. Our guide on do I need to use a tanning mitt to apply self-tanner elaborates on its benefits.
How to Apply: The Foolproof 3VERYBODY Method
Technique is everything. Even with the best full body self tanner, a poor application can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s how to get a flawless, full-body tan—no streaks, no drama, just a beautiful, even glow. This method is designed to be simple, effective, and works every time.
Spritz Life Proof Tan onto the Mitt: Don't spray directly onto your skin, especially if you're new to self-tanning. Instead, apply our Life Proof Tan (tinted tanning water) directly onto the soft side of your 3VERYBODY Tanning Mitt. This controls the amount of product and ensures an even distribution from the start.
Smooth onto skin in long strokes, blending with gentle circles: Start with your legs and work your way up. Apply the product in sections, using long, sweeping strokes. Then, blend with gentle, circular motions to ensure full coverage and avoid any harsh lines. The goal is a seamless transition. Pay attention to areas like your inner thighs and underarms, which are often missed. Expert Sophie Evans recommends starting with the lower leg first, from the ankle up, skimming over the knees. Our self-tanner application tips offer more detail.
Save hands and feet for last; use the clean side of the mitt to blend: These are the trickiest areas. After you've applied to the rest of your body, use the clean, unused side of your mitt or any residual product left on the mitt. Lightly blend over your hands and feet. For hands, curl your fingers slightly to get into the knuckles. For feet, focus on the top and sides, avoiding the soles. Use a very light hand here, as these areas tend to absorb more color and can easily look unnatural. This technique helps achieve a natural-looking tan on difficult areas.
Let it dry a few minutes—no sticky wait: One of the biggest advantages of our water-light formula is its quick-dry nature. After application, give it just a few minutes to fully absorb and dry. You won't experience the long, sticky wait often associated with other self-tanner types. This means you can move on with your day (or night!) much faster.
Wear loose, dark clothes: While our Life Proof Tan is sweat/transfer-resistant and sheet-safe, it's still a good idea to wear loose, dark clothing for the first few hours after application. This provides an extra layer of caution and ensures no accidental marks, especially if you're layering clothing.
Do a quick lukewarm rinse later, then moisturize daily: Once your tan has developed (typically 4-8 hours), take a quick, lukewarm rinse. Avoid harsh soaps or scrubbing during this first shower; a gentle body wash is best. Pat your skin dry, don't rub. To maintain your beautiful glow and ensure even fading, moisturize your entire body daily. Hydrated skin holds onto a tan longer and prevents patchiness. We also have tips on how to get fake tan off hands if you accidentally forget your mitt!
Frequently Asked Questions about Full Body Tanning
We know you might have more questions about achieving and maintaining your perfect glow. Here are some common inquiries about full body self tanner, answered to help you tan with total confidence.
How long does a self-tan last and how can I make it last longer?
A well-applied self-tan typically lasts between five to 10 days. This duration is largely dependent on your skin's natural exfoliation cycle; as your skin cells shed, your tan will gradually fade. Factors like your skincare routine, activity level, and product quality can all affect its longevity. To extend your beautiful glow and ensure it fades evenly:
- Moisturize daily: This is perhaps the most crucial step. Hydrated skin retains its tan longer and prevents it from flaking or becoming patchy. Use a rich, non-oil-based moisturizer at least once, preferably twice, a day. Our Life Proof Tan is packed with hydrating ingredients like argan and cucumber oil to help with this. For more, see how long does a self-tan last and how can I make my self-tan last longer.
- Use a gentle, sulfate-free body wash: Harsh soaps and cleansers can strip your tan. Opt for mild, hydrating body washes.
- Pat skin dry: After showering, gently pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing vigorously.
- Avoid harsh scrubs or retinol/acids on tanned areas: These ingredients accelerate skin cell turnover, causing your tan to fade faster. If you use them, apply them sparingly to untanned areas or avoid them during your tanning cycle.
- Limit hot baths and long showers: Excessive heat and prolonged water exposure can also contribute to faster fading.
Is self-tanner safe for my skin?
Yes, for the vast majority of people, self-tanner is considered safe for your skin, especially when compared to the damaging effects of UV exposure from the sun or tanning beds. The active ingredient in most self-tanners, Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), is approved by the FDA for external use. It reacts with the amino acids in the outermost layer of your skin to create a temporary brown color.
A 2024 research review concluded that DHA is unlikely to be harmful in the quantities found in current self-tanning products. However, it's worth noting that it might be irritating for individuals with very sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin, our Tanning Drops, mixed with your preferred sensitive-skin moisturizer, could be an excellent option as you can control the formulation.
Concerns about DHA often arise regarding inhalation during spray applications. To avoid this, we recommend applying our Life Proof Tan onto a mitt and then smoothing it onto your skin, rather than directly spraying your body in an unventilated area. This ensures you get all the glow without any worry. Self-tanners are undeniably a much safer alternative to UV tanning for achieving a bronzed look. For further reading, check out is self-tanning safe and dermatologist-recommended self-tanner dihydroxyacetone dha safety tips.
How do I fix streaks or remove self-tanner?
Even the most experienced tanners can have a mishap! The good news is, fixing self-tanner mistakes or removing an old tan is quite straightforward.
- For fresh streaks: If you notice a streak or missed spot shortly after application, don't panic. Take your tanning mitt and add a tiny bit of plain body lotion to it. Gently blend the lotion over the streak. The lotion will help dilute the self-tanner, allowing you to smooth out the color.
- For set-in color: If the tan has already developed and you have a stubborn streak or patch, an exfoliating mitt is your best friend. In the shower, wet your skin and gently buff the area with the exfoliating mitt. This will help lift the unwanted color.
- Stubborn spots: For more persistent mistakes, a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda applied to the area for a few minutes can help, followed by gentle scrubbing. Alternatively, a dedicated tan remover product can work wonders. These are formulated to gently break down the DHA and lift the color without harsh scrubbing. Our goal is to help you achieve a streak-free tan every time, but knowing how to correct is key!
Express vs. Gradual Tanners
We offer both a quick-dry express option (Life Proof Tan) and a customizable gradual option (Tanning Drops).
- Express Tanners (like Life Proof Tan): These are perfect when you need a quick glow. Our tinted tanning water develops in just a few hours (typically 4-8 hours) and delivers a visible tan after one application. The pro is speed and convenience; the con is that if you're a beginner, you might feel more pressure to apply perfectly. However, our tinted water-light formula makes it easier to see where you're applying, mitigating this risk.
- Gradual Tanners (like Tanning Drops): These build color slowly over several days. You mix our Tanning Drops with your daily moisturizer, allowing you to control the depth of your tan. The pros are extreme customization and a very natural, subtle build-up of color, making them ideal for beginners or those who want a soft glow. The con is that it takes longer to achieve your desired shade.
Both options are fantastic, it just depends on your preference and schedule!
Tanners for Different Skin Tones
At 3VERYBODY, our formulas are designed with inclusivity in mind. Our Life Proof Tan and Tanning Drops work beautifully on every skin tone, from very fair to deep. We've carefully formulated them to give a natural, never-orange brown hue that complements your natural complexion.
- Fair skin: If you have fair skin, you might start with fewer Tanning Drops or a lighter application of Life Proof Tan. Our formulas are designed not to turn orange, a common concern for pale skin. You can build up the color gradually until you reach your desired shade. See our guide for best self tanner pale skin.
- Medium to deep skin: Our formulas provide a rich, deep tan that improves your natural undertones without looking muddy or artificial. The customizable nature of our Tanning Drops also allows you to achieve a deeper glow without over-applying.
We believe the best full body self tanner is one that adapts to your skin, not the other way around.
Conclusion: Your Flawless, At-Home Tan Starts Here
Getting a believable, natural-looking full body self tanner at home is easy with the right prep, a water-light formula, and a simple application technique. No orange, no stickiness, no sun damage—just a confident, even glow that rivals a week on a sun-drenched beach. We created 3VERYBODY because we believe everyone deserves a flawless, natural-looking tan without the fuss, the mess, or the worry.
Ready to get your glow on? Check out the 3VERYBODY Kit and see the difference for yourself.
