Self-tanning face cream

Do you suffer from sun allergies or very pale skin that doesn’t tan well, or do you dream of the perfect bronze throughout winter? A self-tanning face cream gives your skin a golden glow even when the sun has gone. There isn’t just cream – there’s also self-tanning oil, self-tanning mist for the face, face-tanning serum and tanning drops for face – just choose the best self-tanning product for your face depending on what your skin needs!

How does self-tanning cream for the face work?

Most self-tanning products contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which causes a chemical reaction in the top layer of the skin. Specifically, it interacts with amino acids in the epidermis and causes them to produce a pigment called melanoidin. This reaction usually lasts for 6–10 hours and the result is worth it – bronzed skin that makes it look as though you’ve just come back from a holiday! Good facial self-tanning products usually also contain moisturising and nourishing ingredients, so they take care of your skin at the same time.

A bronze look obtained in this way lasts for several days. Since only the top layer of the skin is tanned, it gradually peels off over time and the tan fades. If you want to keep your bronze for as long as possible, moisturise your skin thoroughly and avoid scrubs, hot water or rubbing your face with a towel. Once your tan has faded, just repeat application.

Choose the best self-tanning cream for the face

The skin on your face is more sensitive than the skin on other parts of the body. That is why it’s a good idea to choose a specialist product designed specifically for the face, especially if you have irritation-prone skin. If you have acne-prone skin, always choose a non-comedogenic product that won’t block the pores.

• Moisturising self-tanning face cream: The creamy consistency is rich and provides intense hydration, which is great for dry skin.
• Self-tanning face lotion: Lotion has a light, fluid consistency that is easy to spread and quickly absorbed.
• Self-tanning facial serum: Serum has a lightweight consistency and often contains other caring ingredients such as vitamins and antioxidants.
• Self-tanning facial spray: Self-tanning mist is applied to the face using a spray, which ensures even distribution on the skin. It usually has a lightweight formula that is great for oily skin.
• Self-tanning facial oil: This product has an oily consistency that’s ideal for dry or mature skin that needs more hydration.
• Facial tanning drops: You can simply mix them into your skin cream. The number of drops determines the intensity of the tan, so you can adjust it to your liking.
• Self-tanning products for the face and body: These products save you bathroom space and with one versatile product you can get a tan from head to toe.

Which shade should you choose?

It is generally recommended that you choose a shade 1–2 degrees darker than your untanned skin. A shade only slightly darker than your natural skin colour is ideal for beginners as it is the easiest to apply and any mistakes will be less noticeable. In general, the longer a self-tanning spray or other product lasts, the darker the results you can expect.

How to use a face-tanning product

For an even tan that lasts as long as possible, follow a few basic rules.

1. The day before, use a facial scrub. This is to remove dead skin cells and any flakes that self-tanning cream would otherwise emphasise on your face. For it to work best, we want to start with the most even skin texture.
2. Just before application, remove your makeup and cleanse the skin thoroughly. Avoid products containing oil, as this can prevent the self-tanner from being absorbed. Finally, rinse your face with cold water to tighten the pores for a perfect finish.
3. Apply the self-tanning cream to clean, dry skin. Details vary from product to product, so always read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow them carefully. Avoid the sensitive eye area as well as the hairline, where it is difficult to blend the product in fully.
4. It is best to use a special brush or an extra-fine application glove to rub it in. You can also apply it with your fingers, but wash your hands as quickly as possible so that you don’t get tanned spots on the palms of your hands.
5. Self-tanning face cream should be left on for a set period of time without interference.

The ideal way to do it is to apply it about an hour before bedtime and just leave it on overnight. However, we recommend putting a towel under your head or using dark-coloured bedding.

Tip: You can set your self-tanning product on your face with translucent powder while using it. It can help prevent streaks and uneven results.

Choose the best self-tanning product for your face and show off a beautifully bronzed complexion even when the sun isn’t shining! Whether you’re interested in a face-tanning mist, tanning serum, cream or handy facial tanning drops, you’re guaranteed to find what you want with us. Do you love having an all-round tan? Then you can also take a look at self-tanning products for the body at Notino.