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For a sun-kissed glow, all year long.
Byrdie / Alli Waataja
The end result: A flattering, splotch- and streak-free tan that will last for days.
(Tip: Put a towel on the floor so the mist doesnt stick.)
The only con is that it has an unpleasant scent that can linger.
PHOTO: Ulta
This formula, in particular, takes eight hours to develop and leaves the skin looking hydrated and glowing.
Most tanners are dehydrating as DHA, the color-depositing ingredient in tanners, can be very drying.
As for the tan itself, it lasts a while and looks very natural.
Byrdie / Caitlyn Martyn
Once you build up the desired color, it lasts for days without needing touch-ups.
Think of self-tanning as makeup for the body and you are the artist, says Grous.
Then, using gloves or a brush, apply layers of the product slowly.
PHOTO: Amazon
Once youre done, remove the gloves and blend any excess with the back of your hands.
Dont forget to wash your hands afterward to avoid discoloration.
The majority of self-tanners last on the skin for about five to seven days.
Byrdie / Chelsea Dinterman
Grous says that moisturizing daily can extend the life of your tan, as well as exfoliating less.
For this story, she relied on her first-hand experience with self-tanner, which goes back 10 years.
She’s used an array of self-tanners, from foams and mousses to sprays, waters, and oils.
PHOTO: Amazon
She’s also tested drops and airbrush options, too.
For this article, she personally tested several of the self-tanning mousses, fine-mist sprays, and pads.
Byrdie / Hannah Baxter
PHOTO: Coco & Eve
Byrdie / Caitlyn Martyn
PHOTO: Amazon
Byrdie / Caitlyn Martyn
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: Bondi Sands
Irene Richardson / Byrdie
PHOTO: Saltyface
PHOTO: Dr. Dennis Gross
Byrdie / Caitlyn Martyn