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15 tips to make your fake tan last longer
April 25, 2022
15 Tips to Make Your Fake Tan Last Longer
Are you looking for ways to make your fake tan last longer? You're not alone. Fake tans are a great way to give yourself an instant glow and bronzed skin, but they don't always last as long as we'd like. Fear not — here are 15 easy tips that will help your self-tanning mousse stay vibrant and beautiful for longer.
Tip 01
Prep Your Skin
Before applying self-tanner, exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells. This creates a smooth canvas for your self-tan mousse, resulting in a more even application and a longer-lasting, streak-free result.
The best pre-tan tool? Our Natural Exfoliating Glove — plant-based fibres, crafted in Turkey, designed specifically for pre-tan prep.
Shop the Glove →Tip 02
Shave or Wax
Shave or wax at least 24 hours before applying self-tanning mousse. This allows your skin to heal and pores to close, preventing the self-tanner from settling into open pores and causing dark spots.
Tip 03
Moisturise Dry Areas
After exfoliating, apply moisturiser to dry patches — heels, elbows, knees, and feet. These areas absorb more DHA and with lower quality products can turn orange. Hydrating them first keeps your result even and natural.
Tip 04
Apply Tanning Mousse in Sections
Wait for your skin to dry before applying. Apply mousse in sections starting with your legs, using circular motions. Use a sufficient amount on your glove and work across the whole body for even coverage.
Tip 05
Use a Mitt or Glove and a Tanning Brush
Use a velvet tanning glove for body application and a tanning brush for precision areas like your face and hands. This prevents streaks and gives consistent colour all over.
Get the full application kit — Velvet Tanning Glove for the body, Face & Hand Brush for precision.
Shop applicators →Tip 06
Don't Over-Apply Your Self-Tanning Mousse
Two light coats beat one heavy coat every time. This prevents streaks, ensures even application, and allows the mousse to dry quickly.
Tip 07
Make Sure Your Self-Tanning Mousse is Completely Dry
Let your self-tanner dry completely before getting dressed or going to bed. This prevents it from rubbing off on your clothes or sheets.
Tip 08
Avoid Water for the First 8 Hours
Avoid getting your skin wet for at least 8 hours after applying self-tanning mousse. This gives the formula time to fully develop within your skin.
Tip 09
Avoid Sweating from Exercise
Avoid sweating for at least 8 hours after applying self-tanner. Sweat can cause the formula to streak and prevent a natural colour from developing.
Tip 10
Avoid Tight Clothing
Tight clothing rubbing against your skin can cause self-tanning mousse to rub off. Avoid light-coloured clothes for the first 8 hours too.
Tip 11
Don't Shower Too Soon
Wait at least 8 hours before showering. Use just water for the initial rinse and avoid exfoliating scrubs. Use only neutral pH soaps to preserve your colour.
Tip 12
Use a Gradual to Medium Self-Tan Mousse
A gradual self-tanning mousse can help prolong your tan and give you a more natural-looking result for longer.
Our Invisible Self Tanning Mousse is the perfect gradual option — clear formula, zero transfer, develops naturally over 6–8 hours. Want to try both our clear and ultra dark shades together? The Tanners Dream Bundle pairs our Invisible Self Tanning Mousse with our Ultra Dark Self Tanning Mousse — the perfect duo to build and deepen your glow.
Shop the Tanners Dream Bundle →Tip 13
Moisturise Daily
Moisturise your skin daily after tanning. Our Self Tanning Mousse range is already filled with Jojoba Oil and Hyaluronic Acid — but topping up with a daily moisturiser extends your tan significantly.
Tip 14
Avoid Chlorine
Avoid swimming in chlorinated water for at least 24 hours after applying fake tan. Chlorine is not pH balanced and is very drying — both of which cause your tan to fade quickly.
Tip 15
Reapply Your Tan Mousse Every 5–6 Days
To keep your tan even and fresh, reapply self-tanner every 5–6 days. This is far more cost-effective than regular spray tan appointments — and you get to do it on your own schedule, at home.
Ready to start? The Tanners Dream Bundle pairs our Invisible Self Tanning Mousse with our Ultra Dark Self Tanning Mousse — build your base then deepen your glow.
Shop the Tanners Dream Bundle →
Choosing the Best Self Tanning Mousse
The question on everyone's lips what is the best tanning mousse on the market? Here is what we recommend looking for:
At Mother of Tan we are committed to providing vegan-friendly and cruelty-free products. All our products are 100% vegan and cruelty-free — the most important factor when purchasing a fake tan.
To achieve a natural-looking result, select a shade that complements your skin tone. If you have fair skin, start with a lighter mousse. Mother of Tan prioritises natural-looking results over artificial ones — which is why we offer three shades and a clear option.
Look for products using natural ingredients and premium moisturisers. A formula with naturally derived ingredients gives you a radiant glow — not just a colour.
Ready to put these tips into practice?
Australian made. 100% vegan. Natural DHA. Zero orange. Everything you need for a beautiful, long-lasting glow.
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