Essential Tips for a Flawless Spray Tan at Home

by Nikki Mitchell February 3, 2025

Essential Tips for a Flawless Spray Tan at Home (Including Nikki's 15-Minute Miracle!)

Getting that sun-kissed glow without the harmful UV rays is easier than ever with at-home spray tans. But achieving a natural-looking, streak-free tan takes a little know-how. Nikki Mitchell Makeup Brows Tan and Skin is here to guide you, especially with our exclusive range of tanning solutions, including the world-famous 15-minute tan!

1. Prep is Key: Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate!

We can't stress this enough! Exfoliating before applying your self-tan is the most crucial step. It removes dead skin cells, creating a smooth canvas for even application and preventing the tan from clinging to dry patches. Focus on areas prone to dryness like elbows, knees, and ankles. Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt 24-48 hours before tanning.

2. Hair Removal: Do it First!

Waxing, shaving, or any other hair removal method should be done at least 24 hours before you apply your self-tan. This prevents the tan from developing unevenly in freshly irritated skin and avoids those pesky dark spots around hair follicles.

3. Clean and Dry Skin:

Ensure your skin is clean, dry, and free of any moisturisers, perfumes, deodorants, or makeup before applying the tan. These products can create a barrier and prevent the tan from absorbing properly, leading to streaks or uneven colour.

4. Mitt Magic: Your Best Friend!

For a seamless, streak-free application, always use a tan applicator mitt. Not only does it protect your hands from staining, but it also helps distribute the tan evenly and blend it effortlessly. Trust us, it's a game-changer!

5. Long, Sweeping Motions:

Apply the tan in long, sweeping motions, working in sections. Start at your ankles and move upwards, ensuring all areas are covered. Avoid circular motions, as they can lead to streaking.

6. Less is More: Hands and Feet

Hands and feet are tricky areas. Apply a small amount of tan to the mitt and lightly glide it over these areas. Too much product will result in an unnatural, orange appearance. You can also apply a light layer of moisturiser to these areas before tanning to prevent them from absorbing too much colour.

7. Blend, Blend, Blend!

Pay close attention to blending around your wrists, ankles, hairline, and between your fingers and toes. A brush can be helpful for blending smaller areas. This ensures a natural, seamless transition.

8. Wait for the Magic to Happen (or Not!):

Traditional Tans: Most self-tans require a minimum of 1 hour for a light, natural-looking tan. For a deeper, darker tan, leave it on for longer, up to the recommended maximum time specified on the product instructions. Then, rinse off with warm water (no soap!) until the water runs clear.
Nikki's 15-Minute Tan: For those who don't have time to wait, Nikki Mitchell's revolutionary 15-minute tan is your answer! This world-famous formula delivers a natural, consistent colour in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy lifestyles or last-minute events! Simply follow the application steps above, wait 15 minutes, and rinse!

9. Post-Tan Care: Maintain Your Glow with Nikki's Coconut Tan Extender Moisturiser

Once you've rinsed, pat your skin dry and apply a light moisturiser. Avoid heavy moisturisers or products containing oils immediately after rinsing. To prolong your tan, moisturise daily with Nikki Mitchell's Coconut Tan Extender Moisturiser. This specially formulated moisturiser not only hydrates your skin but also helps extend the life of your tan. It can even be used as a daily gradual tan, keeping your glow going strong even when you don't have a fresh tan applied. Gentle exfoliation every 2-3 days is also recommended, and reapply your chosen tan as needed. Hydrated skin is key to a long-lasting, even tan.

Bonus Tip: Consider doing a patch test before applying the tan to your entire body. This will help you check the colour and ensure you don't have any allergic reactions.

Following these tips will help you achieve a beautiful, natural-looking spray tan at home. For any questions or to experience the magic of Nikki Mitchell's 15-minute tan or the Coconut Tan Extender Moisturiser, contact us today! We're here to help you achieve your ultimate glow!