How to Apply Self-Tanner to Your Back

There are many different types of self-tanners to choose from

With a hard to reach area, it is best to get another person to assist you when applying self-tanner. Do not lose hope, however, if you find you must apply self-tanner to your back all by yourself. There are ways to still use self-tanner to achieve a beautiful, even looking tan, even on your back. After preparing your skin for the self-tanner, there is a special tool you can use. The preparation and after-care process are both essential to ensuring that the self-tanning process results in a lasting tan.

Things You'll Need

• Cotton washcloth
• Exfoliating liquid or lotion
• Clock or timer
• 3-inch sponge paintbrush

Instructions

1. 

   Take a shower before applying self-tanner. You should use a good washcloth, preferably cotton, to scrub all the dead skin off.

2. Use an exfoliating liquid or cream to finish the process of preparing your skin for the application.

3. 

   Make certain to dry off completely before the self-tanner application process.

4. 

   Put the self-tanner solution/lotion on a sponge paintbrush. The 3-inch size works well for most. This is a very cheap utensil that you can purchase at Sears, Walgreens, Walmart or any number of retail stores.

5. Use the sponge paintbrush with the self-tanner on it to carefully spread the solution across your entire back. Use steady, even strokes. Apply the self-tanner more heavily than you would if applying a typical moisturizing lotion.

6. Avoid allowing anything to touch your back for 15 minutes. Do not participate in any activities that will make you sweat or cause any intense rubbing against your back for the rest of the hour after application.

7. Wait a full 8 hours before bathing. Following all of these steps should help you to have a beautiful even tan on your back that lasts for the ideally expected duration of time.

Tips & Warnings

• You can wear a loose fitting top for the next 1 to 3 hours after application, but the longer you wait to put any clothing on your back, the better. Use a second mirror to see your back in the mirror and get a look at the evenness of the self-tanning spread.

• Be careful not to sweat or shower anytime soon after applying self-tanner. If you get any on your hands, wash it off thoroughly as soon as possible to avoid orange hands.