No.	Things You Should Never Do With Self-Tanner
1	Don’t skip exfoliation before tanning
2	Don’t shave right before applying self-tanner
3	Don’t apply self-tanner on dirty or oily skin
4	Don’t moisturize your whole body right before tanning
5	Don’t forget to moisturize dry spots like elbows and knees
6	Don’t use oil-based exfoliators
7	Don’t wear deodorant or perfume before tanning
8	Don’t apply tanner with bare hands
9	Don’t skip the patch test if you have sensitive skin
10	Don’t rush your pre-tan routine
11	Don’t apply too much product to dry areas
12	Don’t tan in poor lighting
13	Don’t skip using a tanning mitt or glove
14	Don’t apply self-tanner too quickly or unevenly
15	Don’t forget to blend around ankles, wrists, and neck
16	Don’t apply directly to palms, soles, or fingernails
17	Don’t wear tight-fitting clothes right after application
18	Don’t layer over an old tan without removing it first
19	Don’t forget to wash your hands after tanning
20	Don’t assume all tanners work the same—read the label
21	Don’t shower too soon after tanning
22	Don’t sweat, work out, or swim within the first 12 hours
23	Don’t wear tight underwear, socks, or bras after tanning
24	Don’t apply lotion, makeup, or perfume too soon
25	Don’t sit or sleep on light-colored fabrics without a barrier
26	Don’t let pets or kids touch your fresh tan
27	Don’t use alcohol, acids, or retinol right after tanning
28	Don’t exfoliate or shave for 24–48 hours after application
29	Don’t use oil-based moisturizers on Day 1
30	Don’t forget to use gentle, tan-friendly body wash

I’ve learned—sometimes the hard way—that self-tanning isn’t just about the product you choose. It’s about what you do before, during, and after you apply it. The truth is, even the best self-tanner in the world won’t give you a flawless glow if your routine is filled with small, easy-to-make mistakes.

When I first started exploring self-tanners, I was overwhelmed by conflicting advice and vague product labels. I’ve had streaky legs, orange knees, dark elbows, and a mysterious handprint on my shoulder (no clue where that came from). And along the way, I’ve met so many people—clients, friends, even beauty creators—who made the same mistakes. Whether it’s rinsing off too early, over-applying to dry spots, or not realizing your tight jeans just ruined your tan—we’ve all been there.

That’s why I decided to write this guide. Not just to tell you what to do, but to clearly lay out what not to do—the common, often overlooked errors that can totally sabotage your results. These aren’t just tips from a brand perspective. They’re lessons learned from experience, from testing hundreds of formulas, helping first-time users, troubleshooting failed tans, and seeing exactly where things go wrong (and how to fix them).

If you’re new to self-tanning and terrified of waking up orange, I promise—this list will help you feel more confident before you even open the bottle. If you’ve tanned before and weren’t thrilled with the results, these points will show you exactly where to fine-tune your routine. And if you’re deep in research mode, comparing products on Amazon, Ulta, or Sephora—you’re doing the right thing. You’re setting yourself up to get it right, the first time.

This guide is also something I created with fellow beauty pros and educators in mind. If you’re building tutorials, coaching clients, or developing your own tanning products, having a crystal-clear list of “don’ts” can make your guidance more credible, more complete, and more effective.

So let’s dive in. Here are 30 things you should never do with self-tanner—the essential mistakes to avoid if you want smooth, believable, bronzed skin… without the drama.

Section 1: Before You Apply – Pre-Tanning Mistakes

We’ve all been there—standing in front of the mirror, ready to glow, only to end up looking streaky, orange, or worse… blotchy. But here’s the truth no one talks about enough: the most important part of self-tanning isn’t the product itself—it’s the prep. If your skin isn’t properly prepared, no formula in the world can give you a flawless tan. So, before you even reach for that tanning mitt, let’s walk through some very common mistakes we’ve seen over the years, and how to avoid them.

1. Don’t skip exfoliation

We can’t stress this enough. Skipping exfoliation is like painting over a dirty wall—it never ends well. If there’s dry, flaky skin, especially around areas like the ankles or elbows, the tanner will grab onto those patches and leave behind dark, uneven spots. In our experience, exfoliating the night before your tan gives your skin a smooth, even base. Use a gentle, oil-free scrub, or if you prefer a more natural route, a dry brush works beautifully too. Focus on your knees, elbows, ankles, and back of your arms—these tend to be the problem areas.

2. Don’t shave right before tanning

We get it—shaving feels like part of the prep routine. But doing it right before applying self-tanner can actually cause big problems. When you shave, you create tiny micro-tears in the skin that can become irritated when exposed to self-tanning ingredients. Plus, freshly shaved skin often absorbs more product, leading to dark dots or an uneven tone. We always advise shaving at least 12 to 24 hours in advance, allowing the skin to calm down and restore its natural barrier.

3. Don’t apply tanner on dirty or oily skin

This one seems obvious but happens all the time. Whether it’s leftover sunscreen, body oil, or just a sweaty day—you want your skin totally clean and dry before tanning. Oils and dirt act like a barrier, blocking the product from absorbing evenly. Personally, I always recommend a lukewarm shower using a pH-balanced, non-oily body wash just before tanning. Skip anything that leaves a residue, and make sure to pat your skin dry thoroughly before you start.

4. Don’t moisturize your whole body right before

This is where things get tricky. Yes, hydrated skin is key to a smooth tan—but timing is everything. Applying moisturizer right before self-tanner can actually dilute the formula and create a patchy or faded result. We always tell clients: if you’re going to moisturize, do it at least 2–3 hours before your tanning session, and avoid anything with heavy oils or silicones. It’s all about balance.

5. Don’t forget your dry spots

Now, while you shouldn’t moisturize head to toe right before tanning, you absolutely must show some love to your driest areas. Think elbows, knees, ankles, wrists—any spot that tends to crack or roughen up. These areas soak up more tanner than others and often turn darker or orange if left untreated. What we do is dab on a light, oil-free moisturizer just to those areas about an hour before applying the tan. It acts like a buffer and helps everything blend more naturally.

6. Don’t use oil-based exfoliators

Here’s a sneaky one that ruins a lot of tans. Many exfoliating scrubs—especially the fancy ones—contain oils like coconut, almond, or jojoba. While they feel amazing on the skin, they leave a film behind that literally blocks the self-tanner from absorbing. If you’ve ever had a tan “slide off” or go weirdly patchy, this could be why. Always go for oil-free exfoliants the day before your tan. And check the label—just because it says “scrub” doesn’t mean it’s tan-friendly.

7. Don’t wear deodorant or perfume before tanning

This is one of those tips you don’t hear often—but it makes a big difference. Deodorants, perfumes, and body sprays can react chemically with DHA (the active ingredient in most self-tanners) and turn your skin green or gray, especially under your arms or around your neck. It’s happened to clients, and yes—it’s as awful as it sounds. To be safe, wash off any deodorant or perfume before your session, and skip reapplying until after the tan has developed.

8. Don’t apply with bare hands

We’ve all seen it—the dreaded tanned palms. Using your bare hands to apply self-tanner is a fast way to give away your glow… and not in a good way. The skin on your hands absorbs product fast, and once that color develops, it’s very hard to remove. We always use a tanning mitt—it helps spread the product more evenly, prevents stains, and just feels better. If you must use your hands, scrub your palms, cuticles, and under your nails immediately after applying. A little lemon juice and baking soda helps too.

9. Don’t skip a patch test (especially if you have sensitive skin)

Even if you’ve used self-tanners before, trying a new brand or formula can surprise you. We always recommend doing a small patch test, especially for sensitive skin types. Just apply a small amount to the inside of your wrist or behind your ear, then wait 12–24 hours to see how your skin reacts. It’s a simple step that can prevent a whole lot of regret.

10. Don’t rush the prep

Look, I get it—you’re busy, and tanning might just be one step in your get-ready routine. But trust me, rushing through your prep is the fastest way to mess everything up. Skipping exfoliation, applying to wet skin, forgetting dry spots—it all adds up. Give yourself at least 45 minutes of uninterrupted time, and think of it as part of your self-care. Good prep equals great results. Every single time.

📌 Pre-Tan Checklist: Are You Ready?

We always use this quick checklist before any tanning session:

• ✅ I exfoliated last night with an oil-free scrub or dry brush
• ✅ I shaved more than 12 hours ago
• ✅ My skin is clean and dry
• ✅ I didn’t use deodorant, perfume, or oily products
• ✅ I moisturized only my elbows, knees, ankles, and dry spots
• ✅ I’ve got my mitt ready
• ✅ I did a patch test and waited 24 hours

If you’re checking all those off—you’re not just ready. You’re set up for a perfect, natural-looking glow that people will think came from a vacation.

Section 2: During Application – Common Mistakes in the Moment

We always say: prepping your skin is half the battle, but how you apply the self-tanner? That’s where the magic—or the mess—happens. You can exfoliate, shave, and moisturize perfectly, but if you rush the application or miss a few key spots, the results can still go downhill fast. We’ve guided hundreds of clients through this process, and these are the top mistakes we constantly help people avoid.

Let’s walk through them together, so you can apply with total confidence and get the glow you actually want.

11. Don’t apply too much product to dry areas

We’ve all had that moment—looking down the next day and seeing dark elbows, orange knees, or stained ankles. It usually happens because those dry areas act like little sponges, soaking up way more product than the rest of your body. Even if the rest of your skin tans beautifully, those over-absorbed patches completely give it away.

What we do—and what we recommend to all our clients—is to apply way less product to those spots, or better yet, use the leftover tanner on your mitt after you’ve finished the main areas. You can even dilute the tanner with a small amount of oil-free moisturizer just for those zones. It helps blend the color better and prevents the “dirty look” effect that ruins an otherwise great tan.

12. Don’t tan in poor lighting

This might seem like a small thing, but honestly? It’s huge. You’d be surprised how many people apply self-tanner in a dim bathroom with yellow-toned lights. Then the next morning, they step outside and realize they’ve missed entire sections—or worse, they’ve created harsh lines they never saw coming.

What we’ve learned is this: always tan in bright, even lighting. Natural daylight is best, but if that’s not available, use cool-toned LED lights that mimic daylight. Personally, I do my tanning near a window and use a ring light for those darker corners. It helps me catch uneven areas before they dry and set into streaks.

13. Don’t skip using a tanning mitt or glove

This is a must. I know some people still apply tanner with their hands, but we don’t recommend it—not ever. Your palms and the inside of your fingers will turn orange. It’s not “maybe”—it’s a guarantee. And it’s hard to fix once it sets.

We always use a soft tanning mitt, preferably a double-sided one. It not only protects your hands but spreads the product more evenly and smoothly. A mitt also helps with blending and gives you that polished, airbrushed look. And for facial tanners or smaller areas, we sometimes switch to a makeup sponge or brush to blend in the tricky edges.

14. Don’t apply too quickly or unevenly

I totally get the temptation to speed through it—especially if you’ve done this before. But rushing usually leads to two things: missed spots and product build-up in creases or edges. You end up with stripes down your legs, and patchy fade-outs that are almost impossible to fix later.

The method we always recommend is to work in sections—one full limb at a time—and apply the product in circular motions, not back-and-forth wiping. This allows you to blend the edges as you go and control the coverage. Tanning isn’t something to rush—it’s more like painting a masterpiece.

15. Don’t forget to blend around ankles, wrists, and neck

These are the “giveaway” spots. The places that scream, “This isn’t a real tan.” And you know what? They’re super easy to fix if you don’t ignore them. What tends to happen is we stop at the wrists or ankles, leaving a harsh line—or worse, we tan over the foot or hand like it’s just another surface.

What I do—and what we coach our clients to do—is blend down with whatever’s left on the mitt. When I get to the wrist, I flip the mitt to the clean side, or use a damp towel to soften the transition. For the neck, I always blend the face tanner down into the collarbone and blend out to the ears and hairline. A little detail goes a long way.

16. Don’t apply directly to palms, soles, or fingernails

This is one of those rookie mistakes we’ve all made at some point. The palms of your hands, the soles of your feet, and your fingernails/cuticles absorb tanner way faster than the rest of your skin. That’s why they end up looking orange or muddy.

What we do is completely skip these areas. We apply the product normally, and then at the end, I use a clean makeup brush or the faded side of my mitt to lightly buff around the edges of the hands and feet. Then I always, always wipe the nails and knuckles with a damp cloth or baby wipe. It’s one of those steps you’ll be grateful for the next day.

17. Don’t wear tight-fitting clothes right after application

This is a big one, especially if you’re doing your tan in the morning and heading out. Tight clothing rubs against the fresh product and creates uneven patches, especially under the arms, behind the knees, and under bra straps.

We always recommend throwing on something loose, soft, and dark—like a cotton T-shirt dress, a robe, or oversized joggers. No bras, no jeans, no compression leggings. Let the tan develop without being disturbed. It’s one of the best ways to lock in an even finish.

18. Don’t layer over an old tan without removing it first

Here’s what no one tells you: layering a new tan over a fading, patchy one does not create a smoother tan. It just emphasizes the flaws from last week. The uneven texture, the darker patches—they all get worse when you add more pigment on top.

What we do at our studio, and what I always tell friends and clients, is to start fresh. If your old tan is still hanging around, use a tan remover, or exfoliate over a few days to fade it out first. A clean canvas gives you the best results every time.

19. Don’t skip washing your hands if you’re not using a mitt

Even if you’re using a mitt 95% of the time, all it takes is one quick blending motion with your fingers to stain your palms. And once that sets in? You’ll be scrubbing for days.

If you ever use your hands—even just to touch up a spot—wash them immediately with soap and warm water. Don’t forget to get under your nails and around your cuticles. I also keep a lemon wedge or a baking soda paste nearby just in case I need a quick stain fix.

20. Don’t assume all formulas work the same—read the instructions

This one surprises people the most. Not all self-tanners are created equal. Some are express formulas that develop in one hour. Some are gradual, meant to build up over a few days. Others contain bronzers that wash off. If you don’t read the label, it’s easy to use the wrong technique—or rinse too soon and lose all your hard work.

At Metro Private Label, we help brands formulate all types of self-tanners, so trust me—we know how different they can be. That’s why we always advise clients to follow the product’s specific instructions, even if you’ve used a different brand before. A few extra seconds of reading can save hours of regret later.

📌 Pro Tip: Work in sections using circular motions

One of the easiest ways to avoid mistakes? Break your body into zones. I start with my lower legs, move to my thighs, then my torso, arms, and finally my face and hands. For each section, I use small, circular motions to apply the tanner, blending as I go. It gives you more control and helps prevent streaks and build-up.

This part of the routine is where your tan really comes to life—or where it can fall apart. So don’t rush it. Be intentional, take your time, and remember—tanning is just as much a self-care ritual as it is a beauty treatment. You’re not just putting on color. You’re creating a look, a mood, a vibe. And doing it right makes all the difference.

Section 3: After You Apply – What to Avoid While It Sets

After all the prep and careful application, there’s a crucial phase we never let our clients overlook: the setting period. This is the time when your tan quietly develops on the surface of your skin—and it’s also the time when a lot can go wrong. In fact, most of the complaints we hear—“It streaked,” “It came off in patches,” “It rubbed onto my clothes”—happen during this window.

So here’s the part that doesn’t always get talked about enough: you have to protect your tan while it’s setting. Think of it like fresh paint—if you touch it or sit on it too soon, it smudges. Below are the most common mistakes we coach our clients to avoid during this fragile post-application period, and the small shifts you can make to lock in an even, long-lasting glow.

21. Don’t shower too soon (wait 6–8 hours, or follow product instructions)

One of the biggest mistakes we’ve seen is rinsing off the tan too early. I totally get it—you might feel sticky, you want to wash up, and you’re anxious to see the final result. But here’s what’s happening: self-tanner develops through a chemical reaction with the top layer of your skin, and if you interrupt that process too early, your tan won’t fully develop. The result? Faded color, uneven patches, or worse—nothing shows up at all.

We usually recommend waiting at least 6 to 8 hours, though some express formulas may allow for shorter times. At Metro Private Label, we’ve worked with formulas that range from 1-hour rinses to overnight solutions. The key? Always follow the directions specific to your product. If in doubt, go longer rather than shorter. I like to tan in the early evening and rinse off the next morning—it’s easy, and the results are always better.

22. Don’t sweat, exercise, or swim within the first 12 hours

If you’re someone who loves a good workout (or lives somewhere humid), this tip is critical. Sweat and water are your tan’s worst enemies during the first 12 hours. That includes going for a jog, doing hot yoga, even brisk walking outside. We’ve had clients who wore their tan to the gym and came back with stripes where their sports bra rubbed and sweat ran down.

What I do—and what we suggest to everyone—is plan your tan around a “rest period.” Choose a time where you don’t have to rush, move much, or risk moisture interfering. No cardio. No hot baths. No pool. Just chill and let your color develop in peace.

23. Don’t wear tight underwear, socks, or bras

We’ve all been there: you tan, feel amazing, and then throw on tight leggings or a wired bra. The next day? You’ve got weird faded lines or dark creases. It’s frustrating, but very preventable. Tight clothes rub the product before it’s set, especially around pressure points like your waistband, underarms, or behind the knees.

After I tan, I always slip into something loose and cozy—like a dark cotton robe, oversized pajama set, or a soft T-shirt dress. I even skip underwear and socks if I can. Yes, it feels a little weird at first, but trust me: your tan will be smoother, last longer, and fade more evenly when you give it space to settle.

24. Don’t apply lotion, makeup, or perfume too early

This is a sneaky one. We often think of moisturizer as harmless—but applying lotions, foundation, or fragrance before your tan finishes developing can create patches or uneven spots. The ingredients in those products—especially oils and alcohols—can interfere with DHA and dilute your results.

At our studio, we tell clients to treat their tan like a “no-product zone” for at least 12 hours. That means no makeup, no lotion, and definitely no perfume or deodorant. Give your skin time to do its thing. Once the tan sets, you can return to your usual routine—but don’t rush it.

25. Don’t sit or sleep on light-colored furniture or bedding without a barrier

This might sound obvious, but if you’ve ever gotten fake tan on your friend’s white couch… you know it’s not fun. Tanner—especially ones with bronzer—is notorious for transferring to sheets, furniture, and clothes.

That’s why I always keep dark-colored towels handy. I’ll drape one over the couch if I plan to sit, and I lay one down on my bed before sleeping. You can also use a tan-specific sleep sack or old bedsheets. A little prep goes a long way toward saving your surroundings (and your relationships).

26. Don’t let pets or little ones rub against your skin (even though it’s cute)

Okay, this one makes us laugh—but it’s real. If you have kids, or a cuddly pet who loves to climb in your lap, keep in mind: they don’t know you’re wearing a fresh tan. One tail wag, one snuggle, and suddenly you’ve got handprints or paw prints on your thigh.

My tip? Give yourself some “me time” while the tan develops. Hang out in a room with clean, dark furniture, and if possible, hold off on cuddles until your skin is completely dry and the tan is set. You’ll thank yourself later when your legs don’t look like a Rorschach test.

27. Don’t use alcohol, acids, or retinol for the first couple of days

I know a lot of us are skincare junkies—and that’s great—but ingredients like alcohol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, AHAs, BHAs, and retinol are incredibly good at exfoliating… which is the exact opposite of what we want right after tanning.

We always tell clients: pause your actives for 48 hours. Let the tan fully develop and settle before jumping back into your treatment serums. During those first two days, your focus should be on hydration and maintenance—not cell turnover.

28. Don’t exfoliate or shave for 24 to 48 hours

This one is especially important for longer-lasting color. Exfoliating or shaving right after you tan is like sanding off fresh paint—it removes the upper layers of your skin, which is exactly where your tan lives.

We always advise waiting at least 24–48 hours before shaving. And when you do, use a fresh razor and a gentle, moisturizing cream. Short strokes, no pressure, and avoid anything with exfoliating beads or acids. Your goal is to protect the glow, not strip it.

29. Don’t go heavy on moisturizers with oils on Day 1

You’ll hear this a lot in tanning circles: “Moisturize to extend your tan.” And yes, it’s true—but not immediately after application. Heavy, oil-rich moisturizers can interfere with how evenly your tan develops. They can cause blotching or break the DHA reaction if used too early.

Instead, we suggest skipping moisturizer completely until after your first rinse. Then, once the tan is set, go with oil-free or lightweight moisturizers for the next 5–7 days. Aloe-based or hyaluronic acid-based lotions are perfect—they hydrate without disrupting.

30. Don’t forget to switch to a gentle cleanser

Once you finally rinse, remember: that first shower should be quick, cool, and product-free. Just use lukewarm water to rinse off the bronzer. Then, over the next few days, switch to sulfate-free, gentle cleansers—nothing that foams heavily or strips your skin.

We love recommending body washes that are pH-balanced, fragrance-free, and free of strong surfactants. Avoid loofahs and scrubbing mitts too—your skin has done enough. Use your hands or a soft cloth, and your tan will thank you.

📌 Bonus: Our Tan-Friendly Survival Kit

Here’s what I personally keep on hand every time I tan:

• A dark towel or blanket for sitting or sleeping
• Loose, dark clothes—ideally cotton, breathable, and tag-free
• Fragrance-free, oil-free lotion to start using 24 hours post-rinse
• Gentle body wash (look for baby formulas or tan-extending body cleansers)
• A fresh razor and a mild shaving cream for day 2 and beyond
• Optional: a gradual tanner lotion to keep the color fresh without reapplying a full coat

Post-tan care is where the glow really locks in. If you take care of your skin during this stage, your tan will last longer, fade more evenly, and look so much more natural. We always tell our clients: think of the first 24 hours as your golden hour—treat your skin gently, protect your investment, and let the color develop undisturbed.

If you’ve made it to the end of this list—first of all, thank you. I know that 30 “don’ts” might sound like a lot, but honestly? Self-tanning isn’t difficult once you know what to avoid. It’s usually the small things—the rushed application, the lotion you didn’t realize had oil, the socks you wore too soon—that can quietly undo all your hard work. And the goal of this guide wasn’t to overwhelm you, but to set you up for success—whether this is your first time using self-tanner or your fiftieth.

Over the years, I’ve worked with countless people who came to me frustrated—tired of inconsistent results, or embarrassed after a tan-gone-wrong. What I’ve learned is that great tanning isn’t about being perfect. It’s about knowing how to prep, apply, and protect your glow with a bit more intention. When you understand what not to do, you actually free yourself up to enjoy the process. You tan with confidence, you get results you’re proud of, and best of all—you don’t have to keep learning the hard way.

And if you’re reading this not just for yourself, but because you’re thinking about launching your own self-tanning line, let me say this: you’re in the right place. At Metro Private Label, we don’t just manufacture self-tanners—we help beauty founders like you build thoughtful, high-performance skincare brands from the ground up. We understand the details behind the formulas, the user experience, and the expectations today’s customers bring to every bottle they buy.

Whether you’re dreaming up a beginner-friendly gradual tanner, a salon-level express mousse, or a full ritual set that takes your customers from prep to glow—we’re here to turn that vision into something real. Something that works. Something that lasts.

👉 Ready to build your own private label self-tanning line or skincare collection? Let’s make it happen—with formulas you can stand behind, and a partner you can trust.