The Best Self-Tanning Mitt

Buying Guide

It’s easier than ever to get the bronzed look of suntanned skin at home, thanks to the proliferation of self-tanning mitts, towels and other tools.  These mitts help you apply self-tanner, while keeping your hands clean at the same time. You can have a golden hue in no time!

However, applying self-tanner isn’t as easy at putting on sunscreen or body lotion, even though it may look like the same process. Applying self-tanner needs to be done in a perfectly even way so that you don’t end up with dark or light streaks, patchiness and, maybe the worst issue of them all, orange hands. Using a self-tanning mitt can help you put on self-tanner in an effective way so that your tan looks smooth, even and natural. Not only that, self-tanning mitts are great for helping you prep your skin for the product, in addition to making it easier to go over missed patches in hard-to-reach places such as the middle of your back.

If you want to achieve that beautiful glow with your self-tanning mitt, it’s important to check what kind of material the mitt is made from. In order to avoid streaky or patchy application, opt for a material that is smooth without much texture, such as foam or velvet. This will ensure that your self tanner will go on evenly.

Be sure to also check the size of the mitt. While most mitts come in just one size, select one that will fit your hand comfortably and has some room to spare. However, it shouldn’t be too big that it could slide off during the application process.

• Most self-tanning mitts are reusable, so you can apply self tanner on multiple occasions. Some are hand washable, and are easy to rinse off in the sink and hang to dry. Others go a step further and can actually be machine washed, making the cleaning process effortless and simple.
• Look for a self-tanning mitt that comes with its own pouch if you like to keep things neat and tidy. This way, if you don’t want to wash the mitt right away or plan to use it the next day, you can keep it safe in the pouch without it drying out or leaking color all over your home.
• To get the best tan, be sure to remove any unwanted hair at least 24 hours before, especially if you plan on waxing.
• It’s important to exfoliate before you apply any self tanner, so buff rough areas such as your elbows, knees and ankles, and be sure to pay extra attention to any dry spots on your skin.
• Be sure to apply self tanner with a self-tanning mitt once your body has fully dried after a shower. If you start while it’s wet, you will end up with streaky skin. Wait at least 10-15 minutes after a shower, and avoid using any bath products that leave an oily residue on your skin.
• Did you know that your tanning products take about eight hours to set? If you’re running around during the day, you may end up sweating, which can lead to streaks. Ideally, plan to let your tan set overnight.