Considering a faux glow? These are the need-to-knows for a successful self tan session

Any self tan enthusiast will tell you that fake tan has the power to transform your skin, body and even mind – really, it can be a secret weapon for boosting confidence. Yet it can still be tricky to master and often feels intimidating to beginners.

For those who haven't tanned at home before and are wondering how to fake tan, this quickfire guide is here to keep you right, and it really comes down to three main factors. “It is important to understand what you want to achieve from your self-tan," says Nicola Matthews, tanning expert and founder of Sienna X tan. "It's about picking the right formula, shade and technique for you."

Here, the experts explain the crucial preparation steps, a guide on picking your perfect tan formula and all the tips and tricks you need to avoid common tanning pitfalls.

Everything you need to know before applying self tan

1. Don't pick a random shade

Those who aren't confident self tanners or are simply new to the game may be torn between shades initially. If your skin tone is pale to medium, it's often sensible to go for a lighter option for your first attempt – it's far easier to add more layers later than remove intense fake tan results that you aren't happy with.

Even if you think you want a great big hit of tan, "Fair skin tones should avoid dark and ultra-dark formulas, instead opt for light-medium tans," Matthews recommends. You can always build up a few applications if needed, which "will compliment your skin tone giving you glowing results."

She continues, "Medium skin tones who tend to tan naturally should opt for medium-dark shades. On dark skin tones, dark and ultra-dark formulas will help enhance your skin's natural warmth and add a radiance boost."

2. Different formulas have different purposes

Fake tan comes in a surprising number of formulas, each with different benefits and purposes "Mousses have quick-drying formulas and have a lightweight feel. Gradual tanning lotions apply similarly to a normal moisturiser and are super hydrating, offering a gentle build-up of colour," explains Matthews.

"Mists offer fuss-free application – simply spritz and go. They are also a great option for areas such as the hands, face and feet. Tanning drops are a great formulation for facial tanning – they can be applied directly to the face or added to your daily moisturiser."

3. Consider development time

Before buying any self tan product it's important to determine whether you want bronzed results immediately or can wait for them to develop slowly. "Are you looking for a quick fix or a glowing tan for longer? Picking the right development time depends on how much time you have to spare and how long you want the tan to last," Matthews says.

If you aren't in a rush, it may be better to take the gradual tan route as these formula look more natural and last longer. They are best applied before bed and left to develop overnight while you sleep. However, if you're in need of a quick fix that gets results instantly or within an hour or two, an express formula or an instant tan will be the better choice.

4. Day-before prep can make all the difference

The secret to a successful, smooth tan application is all in the prep – more specifically, exfoliation and any hair removal. For best results, this should be done a full day ahead of the tan application.

"Shaving and exfoliating with a physical scrub 24–48 hours before tanning ensures that the skin recovers and pores close," Matthews explains. "This prevents any redness and irritation."

5. Moisturiser is the best way to defeat streaks

Even with all the skin-smoothing prep in the world and the correct formula, your tan can still streak. To avoid this, you should moisturise your skin a few hours before application for a smoother and more even finish – pay particular attention to drier areas like the ankles, knees and elbows, as tan formulas can cling to these areas.

Matthews also recommends washing your tanning mitt between uses: "Check that you are using a clean tanning mitt as any signs of old tan on a mitt can affect the application," she explains.

6. Don't forget your hands

Finally, apply your fake tan carefully to your hands. Even after you've mastered the art of tanning your body, your hands are one of the hardest areas to get right and getting them to look natural is a fine art.

Experts recommend using the leftover product on your mitt and running it over your hands and fingers. Sweep the mitt over fingers that are bent at the knuckles for best results. Or, for an easy solution, use a tanning mist to gently spritz only the backs of your hands.

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