Self Tanners for Dark Skin: Best Products, Tips and How to Apply

Not many people know dark skinned people tan, but they absolutely do and that’s not where the tea is at. The actual tea is in why dark skinned people tan. Black people are more prone to hyperpigmentation, visible stretch marks and uneven skin tone and tanning is usually done to conceal these. The aim of tanning is basically to achieve a radiant and a more even complexion which will in turn help to reduce the appearance of these flaws or totally conceal them (for a while).

The traditional way of tanning is by sitting in the sun for hours but another safe and easy way that saves you the stress is by using self tanners.

What are Self Tanners?

Self tanners are products that are applied to the skin to mimic the effect of an actual sun tan. They usually contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a color additive that chemically reacts with the proteins or amino acids on the outer layer of the skin to give a temporary darker tone similar to a sun tan. Self tanners are not considered dangerous especially when applied correctly and in low concentrations.

Just like how finding the perfect foundation for your skin tone can be a bit demanding, finding a self tanner for dark skin may be a bit tricky. Below I have compiled a list of the best self  tanners for dark skin.

Best Self Tanners for Dark Skin

1. St. Tropez Self Tan Dark Bronzing Mousse

This hydrating tanning mousse for dark skin leaves a long lasting result on the skin. It also leaves no tanning smell after application and is very easy to use. According to reviews, it is worth every penny!

2. Famous Dave’s Dark Self Tanning Lotion

The Famous Dave’s line provides your skin with desired tan results while providing nourishment to the skin with rich emollients of Aloe Vera, Sesame and Jojoba that soothes, softens and leaves the skin shiny.

3. Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam

You can get the perfect suntan without spending a minute in the sun with this lightweight tanning foam. This self tanner is also enriched with aloe vera and contains a soothing scent of coconut. It will leave your skin scented, glowing and smelling divine.

4. Hawaiian Tropic Self Tan Water Dark

You don’t have to be on the islands of Hawaii to get your dream tan. You can easily get the glow and uniform skin tone you dream of with this sunless tan wherever you are. It contains a tropical scent and a rich blend of Aloe Vera and Vitamin E that will keep your skin hydrated and your tan streak free.

5. Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam

Sometimes it is a pain to come by a non-sticky tanner but you no longer have to worry about that. This lightweight formula is non-sticky, silicone free and leaves no tan smell.

It also helps to fade the appearance of spots leaving your skin smooth and sun-kissed.

Tips and How to Apply Self Tanners

Before applying any product at all on your skin, it is strongly advised to do a patch test. You can easily carry one out by applying a small amount of your self tanner to the skin on your arm and wait for at least 24 hours to see if any allergic reaction occurs. If none occurs, you can proceed with the following tips for continuous usage of your self tanner.

Exfoliate

For a smooth result, it is advised to exfoliate the skin 24 hours prior to the application of self tanners to remove dead skin cells. You can do this by using chemical exfoliants like BHAs or AHAs depending on your skin type or a physical scrub.

Bonus: Shaving 24 hours before tanning is also a great tanning tip and contributes to a smooth result.

Moisturize

It is necessary to keep your skin moisturized after exfoliation to enable easy gliding and even distribution when applying your self tanner. Areas like your knees, elbows, hands and feet should be given extra attention.

Apply self tanner

The best way to apply your self tanner is with a glove (mitt) and in a circular motion. For areas of your body where it is hard to reach like your feet and elbows, you can use a blending brush for application.

Let your tanner dry for about four hours or more before rinsing off to avoid streaks.

More moisturizing

To help your new tan stay longer, you should make moisturizing daily a habit. It is also best to avoid hot showers and take lukewarm ones instead while you still have your tan on to help it last longer.