Master Your Tan: A Guide to Self-Tanning Sprays, Lotions, and Creams

Why Self Tanning Spray Is the Smarter Way to Glow

Self tanning spray delivers a natural, sun-kissed glow without UV damage—and when you choose a water-light formula like tinted tanning water, you get quick-dry, streak-free results that work on every skin tone. Here's what you need to know:

Quick Answer: Best Self Tanning Spray Options

The global self-tanning market is expected to hit $1.7 billion by 2027, driven by people like you who want a safe, natural-looking tan without the sun. But many formulas can be sticky, streaky, or turn you orange.

That's where water-light tinted tanning water changes the game. A thinner, water-light layer blends cleaner, dries faster, and looks natural from very fair to deep skin.

I'm Emmy Bre, founder of 3VERYBODY, and I've spent over a decade testing nearly every self tanning spray on the market before creating our sweat-resistant, non-orange Life Proof Tan. After watching my mom and grandma battle skin cancer, I knew safer tanning options had to exist—so I built them.

Self tanning spray glossary:

• self tanning products
• Sweat-Resistant Self Tanner

Why Tinted Tanning Water and Drops Are the Future of At-Home Tanning

The self-tanning world is changing fast, and for good reason. More of us want that sun-kissed glow without the UV damage—but we also want it to feel good, look natural, and fit into our real lives. That means no stickiness, no waiting around for hours, and definitely no orange streaks.

That's exactly why water-light, quick-dry formulas like tinted tanning water are taking over. A thinner, water-light layer blends cleaner, dries faster, and looks natural from very fair to deep skin. You get streak-free, even blending without the heaviness or the guesswork.

Here's what makes these formulas so different: they're sheet-safe and transfer-resistant. You can apply your self tanning spray, let it dry for a few minutes, and get dressed without worrying about staining your favorite sheets or clothes. No more standing around half-dressed waiting for a sticky formula to set.

And if you're someone who's always on the go? Even better. Our formulas are sweat-resistant, so your glow stays put through workouts, busy days, and everything in between. You can read more about keeping your tan flawless no matter what life throws at you in our best sweat-resistant self tanner guide.

The honest truth is this: when you choose a water-light tinted tanning water, you're choosing a formula that dries in minutes instead of hours, blends seamlessly on every skin tone and type, and gives you the freedom to live your life without babysitting your tan. That's the future of at-home tanning—and it's already here.

Your Pre-Tan Checklist: 3 Steps to a Flawless Finish

Think of your skin like a canvas—the smoother and better prepped it is, the more beautiful your finished tan will look. Proper skin prep is what separates a gorgeous, even glow from a patchy, streaky mess. The good news? It only takes three simple steps to get your skin ready for a flawless finish with your self tanning spray or drops.

Step 1: Exfoliate 24 Hours Before

This step is absolutely non-negotiable if you want an even, long-lasting tan. Exfoliation removes the layer of dead skin cells that builds up naturally on your body. Without it, your self-tanner clings to those dry, dead patches instead of your fresh skin underneath—and that's when you get those dreaded dark spots on your knees, elbows, and ankles.

We recommend exfoliating a full 24 hours before you plan to tan. This timing gives your skin enough time to settle down and ensures you won't have any irritation when you apply your tinted tanning water. Use an exfoliating mitt or a gentle body scrub, and really focus on those trouble spots: knees, elbows, ankles, and anywhere else that tends to get dry or rough. You can grab an exfoliating mitt like this one to make the job easier and more thorough.

Trust me, this one step makes the biggest difference in how your tan looks and how long it lasts. For a deeper dive into why exfoliation matters so much, check out The Importance of Exfoliation in Self-Tanning Routines.

Step 2: Shave (If You Want To)

If shaving is part of your routine, do it at the same time you exfoliate—24 hours before applying your self tanning spray. Here's why: shaving opens up your pores temporarily, and if you tan right after, the tanning solution can settle into those open pores and create tiny dark dots all over your legs. Not cute.

Waiting a full day gives your pores time to close completely, so your tan goes on smooth and even without any dotting or "strawberry leg" effect. If you prefer to skip shaving, that's totally fine too—just make sure you've exfoliated well.

Step 3: Moisturize Dry Spots Only

This might sound backwards, but hear me out: you only want to moisturize specific dry areas right before tanning, not your whole body. I'm talking about your hands, feet, elbows, and knees—the spots that tend to be extra dry and thirsty for product.

These areas will soak up more self-tanner than the rest of your body, which can leave you with unnaturally dark patches. By applying a light, oil-free lotion to just these spots, you create a thin barrier that helps the tanning water blend more evenly instead of over-absorbing. Think of it as a protective layer that keeps your tan looking natural from head to toe.

If you're wondering whether you should moisturize your entire body before tanning, the answer is usually no—but there are some exceptions. Read more about the details in our guide on should you moisturize before self tanning.

With these three prep steps done, your skin is primed and ready for a smooth, even application. You're setting yourself up for the kind of natural-looking glow that makes people ask, "Wait, did you just get back from vacation?"

The Ultimate Guide to Applying Self Tanning Spray and Drops

Now that your skin is perfectly prepped, it's time for the fun part: applying your glow! Getting salon-quality results at home with 3VERYBODY is easier than you think, especially once you learn the streak-free technique. Our water-light formulas are designed for effortless application, so you get a natural, even tan every single time. For a comprehensive walkthrough, check out our A Step-by-Step Guide to Using Self-Tanning Sprays.

How to Get a Streak-Free Finish with Tinted Tanning Water

Our Life Proof Tan—our signature tinted tanning water—is formulated to give you a gorgeous, even glow without the guesswork. Here's the foolproof method I recommend:

Start by spritzing Life Proof Tan directly onto your 3VERYBODY Tanning Mitt, never directly on your skin. This gives you total control over the product and keeps your palms from staining. The mitt's double-sided, washable design makes blending effortless.

Apply in sections, working from your ankles up. Use long, sweeping strokes to cover each area, then blend gently in circular motions. This technique distributes the product evenly and prevents those telltale streaks. Think of it like painting—smooth, confident strokes give you the most natural finish.

Save your hands and feet for last. These areas can easily look overdone if you're not careful. Use the clean side of your Mitt to lightly feather any remaining product onto your hands and feet. This creates a subtle, natural blend that won't scream "fake tan."

Because our formula is water-light and quick-dry, you'll only need to wait a few minutes before getting dressed. Throw on loose, dark clothing to avoid any friction while your tan develops. And here's the best part: our self tanning spray is sheet-safe, so you can apply it before bed and wake up to a beautiful glow without worrying about staining your sheets.

After 6 to 8 hours, take a quick lukewarm rinse. Don't use harsh soaps during this first shower—just let the bronzed guide color wash away and pat your skin dry gently. That's it. You're glowing.

Customizing Your Glow for Face & Body

For a truly personalized tan, our 3VERYBODY Tanning Drops are your secret weapon. These versatile drops let you control exactly how deep your glow goes, making them perfect for both your face and body.

Simply mix a few drops with your favorite moisturizer, serum, or oil. The more drops you add, the deeper your tan will be. I love this method because it integrates seamlessly into your existing skincare routine. For detailed instructions on application, check out our guide on how to apply self-tanning drops.

Our Tanning Drops are enriched with rosehip oil for radiance and cucumber extract for hydration, so they're not just tanning your skin—they're nourishing it too. They're vegan and free from parabens, palm oil, and sulfates, which means you're treating your skin to clean ingredients with every application.

This method is especially great for your face, where you want a consistent glow that matches your body without looking overdone. And yes, they are absolutely face-safe! If you're wondering can i use self tanner on my face, the answer is a confident yes with our Tanning Drops. They're gentle enough for delicate facial skin while still delivering that natural-looking color.

Drops are also perfect for beginners who want to ease into self-tanning or for anyone who prefers a gradual build. You can start with just one or two drops and work your way up as you get more comfortable. We believe these are some of the best natural tanning drops available—no orange tones, just a sun-kissed glow you can customize to your exact preference.

Our Top Picks for a Natural, Non-Orange Tan

Let's talk about that orange fear—because it's real, and we've all seen it. That artificial, carrot-colored glow is exactly what we set out to eliminate when we created 3VERYBODY. After years of testing and formulating, we've developed products that deliver a natural, bronzed glow for every skin tone, from the fairest to the deepest. No orange. Ever. If you've been searching for what self-tanner wont turn me orange, you're in the right place.

Our secret? We use a green/violet base that neutralizes those unwanted orange undertones, while our water-light formulas blend seamlessly into your natural skin tone. Here are the three products we're most proud of:

Best Overall Self Tanning Spray: 3VERYBODY Life Proof Tan

Our Life Proof Tan is more than just a self tanning spray—it's your ticket to a flawless, transfer-resistant tan that actually stays put through workouts, summer heat, and real life. This Tinted Tanning Water is our flagship for a reason. It's water-light and quick-dry, which means you can apply it and get dressed in minutes without worrying about staining your clothes or sheets. The formula is engineered to be sweat and transfer-resistant, so your tan stays exactly where you put it.

We've packed this vegan and cruelty-free formula with ingredients your skin will love: argan oil, cucumber oil, caffeine, and guarana extract. These aren't just fancy add-ons—they actually nourish and firm your skin while you tan. And because we believe in clean beauty, Life Proof Tan is completely free from parabens and sulfates. It's the best choice for a natural, sun-kissed look that never veers into orange territory.

Best for a Custom Glow: 3VERYBODY Tanning Drops

If you love total control over your tan, our 3VERYBODY Tanning Drops are about to become your new obsession. These drops let you customize your exact shade by mixing them with whatever you're already using—your favorite moisturizer, facial serum, or body oil. Want just a hint of color? Use one or two drops. Ready for a deeper bronze? Add a few more. It's that simple.

Our vegan formula features rosehip oil for radiance and cucumber extract for hydration, turning your daily skincare routine into a tanning ritual. Like everything we make, these drops are free from parabens, palm oil, and sulfates. They're gentle enough for your face and effective enough for your whole body. Whether you're building up gradually or maintaining an existing tan, these are the best natural tanning drops for a personalized, healthy glow. Check out how to apply self-tanning drops for our step-by-step guide.

Best for Beginners: The 3VERYBODY Kit

If you're new to self-tanning or just want to make sure you get it right the first time, our 3VERYBODY Kit is where you should start. We designed this kit to be completely foolproof—it includes everything you need for a streak-free, salon-quality tan at home: our Life Proof Tan tinted tanning water, our customizable Tanning Drops, and our double-sided washable Tanning Mitt.

We put this kit together to take all the guesswork out of the process. No wondering if you have the right tools. No stressing about technique. Just everything you need in one box, with results so good that creator HopeScope gave us her stamp of approval. Our kit is designed with inclusivity at its core, delivering a gorgeous, natural glow on every skin tone. It's the perfect starting point for anyone who wants a beautiful, non-orange tan without the learning curve.

Tan Maintenance 101: Making Your Glow Last

You've nailed that perfect, natural glow with your self tanning spray or drops—now let's talk about keeping it gorgeous for as long as possible. The good news? Tan longevity is all about simple, consistent care and hydration. When you treat your tan right, it fades evenly and beautifully, without the dreaded patchiness or streaks that can make you look like you're molting.

Think of your tan like a fresh manicure—the better you maintain it, the longer it looks salon-quality. Our guide on how long does self-tanner last goes into all the details, but I'm giving you the essentials right here.

Development and Duration

After you apply our tinted tanning water or drops, your tan needs time to develop—typically 6-8 hours. During this window, try to avoid excessive sweating or getting wet. I know, it's hard to resist a workout or a shower, but trust me, it's worth the wait.

Once fully developed, a well-maintained tan from 3VERYBODY products typically lasts 5-7 days. Your first rinse is crucial. Use lukewarm water—not hot—and skip the harsh soaps or vigorous scrubbing. Just let the bronzed guide color wash away naturally, then pat your skin dry gently. This simple step locks in the color and sets you up for an even, lasting finish. Hot water and aggressive scrubbing are the enemy here; they'll strip your tan faster than you can say "streak-free."

Extending Your Tan

Want to know the secret to making your glow last the full week (or even longer)? Moisturize daily. Ideally twice a day. I can't stress this enough—hydration is everything. A well-moisturized skin surface holds onto your tan longer and ensures it fades evenly instead of flaking off in patches. Our guide on does moisturising help fake tan last longer breaks down exactly why this works, but the short version is: dry skin sheds faster, and your tan goes with it.

Beyond slathering on lotion, drink plenty of water. Hydration from within supports overall skin health, which in turn keeps your tan looking fresh. Your skin is your body's largest organ, and when it's happy and hydrated, your tan shows it.

Also, try to avoid long, hot baths and limit your time in chlorinated pools. Both can strip your tan prematurely. If you do swim, rinse off quickly afterward and reapply moisturizer. Think of it as protecting your investment—you put in the work to get that glow, so give it the TLC it deserves.

Fixing Common Mistakes

Even if you've mastered the application, sometimes things happen. Maybe you notice a patch that's a bit darker, a streak you missed, or—the classic—accidentally orange hands. Don't panic. These issues are fixable.

For patchiness or streaks, gentle exfoliation is your best friend. Use a soft exfoliating mitt or a gentle scrub to smooth out uneven areas. Go easy—aggressive scrubbing will just create more problems. If you're dealing with the dreaded orange hands, check out our guide on how to get fake tan off hands. A tan remover works great, or you can try a DIY mixture of lemon juice and baking soda for a gentle scrub. The key is to address these issues quickly but gently to avoid irritating your skin.

Prevention is always easier than correction, so if you want to avoid these common pitfalls altogether, our Tips for Avoiding Common Self-Tanning Mistakes guide is packed with practical advice. With a little care and the right techniques, you'll keep your self tanning spray glow looking flawless from day one through day seven.

Frequently Asked Questions about Self-Tanning

We get a lot of questions about self-tanning, and we love answering them! It shows you're invested in getting the best, safest glow possible. Here are some of the most common questions we hear:

What are the key ingredients in a quality self-tanner?

The magic behind a sunless tan largely comes from DHA (dihydroxyacetone). This active ingredient reacts with amino acids in the top layer of your skin, creating a temporary browning effect that develops over several hours. Some advanced formulas also include erythrulose, which acts as a "tan booster" to help the color develop more smoothly and last longer. Together, these ingredients create that gorgeous, gradual glow you're after. If you're curious about the science, check out how do self-tanners work.

Beyond the active tanning agents, a quality self tanning spray should be packed with skin-loving ingredients. Look for hydrating powerhouses like hyaluronic acid, nourishing oils such as argan oil or cucumber oil, and protective antioxidants like goji berry fruit extract. Our Life Proof Tan includes caffeine and guarana extract to help firm and energize your skin while you tan. At 3VERYBODY, we prioritize vegan and cruelty-free formulas, ensuring that our products are not only effective but also ethical. If you're wondering are self-tanners vegan and cruelty-free, you'll be happy to know all our products are both.

Is self-tanning safe for your skin?

Absolutely! Self-tanning is widely recommended by leading medical associations, including the Mayo Clinic, the Skin Cancer Foundation, and the American Academy of Dermatology, as a safer alternative to sun exposure and tanning beds. The global self-tanning market's growth to an expected $1.7 billion by 2027 is a testament to this increasing preference for safer options.

Our products, like all quality self-tanners, work by affecting only the outermost layer of your skin. The DHA reacts with dead skin cells on the surface—that's it. It's FDA-approved for external use and doesn't penetrate deeper or cause DNA damage the way UV rays do. For me personally, after watching my mom and grandma battle skin cancer, creating a safe alternative to sun tanning wasn't just a business decision—it was a mission. You can read more about the safety of sunless tanning in our guide: is self-tanning safe.

That said, here's something crucial: while self tanning spray gives you a beautiful glow, it does not contain sunscreen and offers no protection against UV rays. Your tan is cosmetic only. You still need to wear sunscreen diligently every single day. So, do i need to wear sunscreen if i have a self tan? Yes, always!

How do you choose the right shade for your skin tone?

Choosing the right shade is key to a natural-looking tan, and honestly, it's simpler than you might think. Our best advice is to always start light and build your color gradually. Our formulas are designed to be buildable, giving you complete control over the depth of your tan. You can always add more, but it's much harder to take color away.

Consider your skin's natural undertones when choosing a product. If you have fair skin, you might worry about an orange tint—we get it. Quality self-tanners often incorporate color-correcting bases, like green or violet, to counteract any unwanted orange hues. Our formulas are specifically designed to give a natural, non-orange finish from very fair to deep skin tones. If you're still wondering what self-tanner wont turn me orange, our tinted tanning water and drops are your answer.

Before committing to a full application, always perform a patch test 24 hours before. Apply a small amount to a discreet area and see how the product develops on your unique skin. This simple step can save you from any surprises and helps you gauge whether you want to build up the color. For more in-depth guidance on finding your perfect match, read how do i choose the right shade of self-tanner.

Your Best Tan is Just a Spritz Away

Getting a gorgeous, natural-looking tan at home doesn't have to be complicated—and after reading this guide, we hope you feel confident that you can absolutely do this. With 3VERYBODY's water-light formulas, you're not just getting a tan; you're getting a glow that's streak-free, non-sticky, and completely free of orange tones. Whether you have very fair skin or deep skin, our tinted tanning water and drops are designed to work beautifully for you.

Here's what makes our approach different: we've built everything around quick-dry, sweat-resistant formulas that actually stay put. No waiting around for hours. No worrying about transfer to your sheets or clothes. No dealing with that heavy, sticky feeling that makes you regret ever trying self-tanner in the first place. Just a radiant, natural glow that looks like you spent a week at the beach—minus the sun damage.

I founded 3VERYBODY because I believe everyone deserves a safe, effective way to get the glow they want. After watching my mom and grandma fight skin cancer, I knew there had to be a better option than UV exposure. That's why every product we make is vegan, cruelty-free, and formulated with skin-loving ingredients like argan oil, cucumber extract, and rosehip oil. We're woman-owned, inclusivity-first, and yes, creator-approved (HopeScope's love for us still makes me smile).

Ready to get your glow? Shop our sweat-resistant Life Proof Tan tinted tanning water, our customizable Tanning Drops, and the complete 3VERYBODY Kit that brings everything together for foolproof, salon-quality results at home. Your best tan really is just a spritz away—and I can't wait for you to experience it.