April 2022

The Perfect Guide to Tanning Makeup for Flawless Skin

Get ready to turn heads with a flawless, sun-kissed look. A perfect tan that complements your natural beauty makes you feel confident all year round — but the makeup you wear over it matters just as much as the tan itself. In this guide we walk you through a 5-step process for applying tanning makeup so you look stunning from every angle.

Essentials of tanning makeup

Achieving a dreamy, sun-kissed makeup look starts with two things: prepping your skin and choosing the right products for your tanned complexion. The secret to high-definition skin is a well-prepared canvas. Warm shades and products designed for tanned skin will work wonders in complementing the peachy, golden, and bronzy undertones of a self tan.

Step 1 — Prep your skin

Moisturise and protect

Before applying any makeup, prepare your skin for the best possible result. Begin with a moisturiser suitable for your skin type to create a hydrated, smooth canvas. Apply sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays and help maintain your tan's longevity.

Choose a lightweight base

Once your skin is moisturised and protected, reach for a lightweight, non-greasy makeup base. A mineral foundation is ideal — it provides a smooth, even surface for your tanning makeup while letting your skin breathe and your tan show through naturally.

Step 2 — Foundation and concealer for tanned skin

A flawless tan begins with the right foundation and concealer. When choosing your foundation, opt for a semi-matte finish that lets your skin breathe and provides natural-looking coverage. Concealer should be a shade or two lighter than your foundation and have warm undertones to blend seamlessly with your tan.

Selecting the ideal shade

Look for a semi-matte foundation with warm undertones that complement your skin tone. Do not be afraid to go slightly deeper than your usual shade — your self tan shifts your natural complexion warmer, so your everyday foundation may now appear too light or too pink against your tan.

Application technique

Instead of applying heavy foundation all over the face, consider using concealer selectively — under the eyes and on any blemishes — and a tinted moisturiser or BB cream for lighter coverage elsewhere. This keeps your tan looking natural and glowing rather than covered up. When applying bronzer, blush, and highlighter, focus on the areas where the sun naturally falls: nose, cheeks, temples, and chin.

Step 3 — Bronzer, blush and highlighter

Bronzer basics

Bronzer adds warmth and dimension to your face, accentuating your cheekbones, nose, and jawline. When applying bronzer to tanned skin, focus on the areas where the sun would naturally hit — nose, cheeks, temples, and chin. Choose a shade with warm undertones like gold, amber, or bronze to add a subtle depth that enhances your self tan rather than fighting it.

Blush for a sun-kissed look

Blush adds a touch of colour to your cheeks and creates a radiant, healthy glow. For tanned skin, pay attention to depth — darker complexions need richer blush shades for a truly stunning result. Apply blush to the cheekbones and bridge of the nose for a natural, sun-kissed effect. Cream blush works particularly well on tanned skin for a seamless, skin-like finish.

Highlighter for a glowing finish

Highlighter adds luminosity to your tanned complexion, making your skin look radiant and lit from within. The best highlighter shades for tanned skin include gold, amber, and bronze — rich variations of rose gold or bronze are especially flattering on deeper complexions. Apply highlighter above your cheekbones, on the top of the cheek, and above your upper lip for a stunning, sun-kissed glow.

Step 4 — Eye and lip makeup for tanned skin

Eyeshadow shades that work

Warm, neutral eyeshadow shades complement tanned skin beautifully. Nude shadows with peach, honey, or red-brown tones enhance your tan naturally. For a bolder look, go for bronze, gold, or amber metallics — or even vibrant oranges for a truly sun-kissed statement.

Lip colours for tanned skin

Warm peachy shades look effortlessly natural on tanned skin. For more drama, oranges, brick reds, and deep pinks add a stunning pop of colour. Nude and brown shades are also beautiful on tanned skin, complementing the warm undertones of your complexion without competing with your glow.

Step 5 — Maintaining your tan and makeup

Skincare for tanned skin

To maintain your self tan, moisturise daily, avoid hot water when showering, and use gentle cleansers. Incorporating skin-nourishing ingredients like Jojoba Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, and Argan Oil into your routine helps maintain hydration and extend your tan's longevity — and our Invisible Self Tanning Mousse already contains all of these.

Always protect your skin by applying SPF before sun exposure. UV exposure causes your self tan to fade faster — and as Australians, protecting your skin from UV damage is non-negotiable.

Makeup setting techniques

To keep your makeup in place all day on tanned skin, avoid heavy foundation all over the face. Focus coverage on the cheeks and areas that need it. For eye makeup, use a dab of eyelid primer or blend a small amount of concealer onto the lid as a base. Finish with a setting spray to lock everything in place and keep your tan and makeup looking fresh.

For eyeshadow and lip colours, opt for warm, inviting hues that amplify your skin's natural glow. Experiment with different shades and finishes — what works on untanned skin often needs to shift warmer and richer once your self tan is on.

Frequently asked questions

Start with the right self tan

The best tanning makeup always begins with a great base tan. Choose a formula that develops evenly, fades naturally, and leaves your skin nourished — so your makeup goes on smoothly every time.

Read next: How to apply self-tanner to contour your face →

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