It’s best to remove body hair the day before you tan. If you shave or wax the same day you apply the tanner, your tan can end up pretty patchy. [2] X Research source Don’t apply anything to your skin afterward—not even deodorant. It’ll interfere with your tan and could leave you splotchy. [3] X Research source

If the skin on your face is dry, you might also want to apply lotion to your face. If you don’t have any lotion on hand, you can also blot your skin with a wet (but not dripping!) towel. It’s not ideal, but as long as you don’t use too much water, your tan shouldn’t streak. [6] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source

If you don’t have anything available, you can use your bare hands. Just remember to wash them thoroughly after each section. [8] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Rubber gloves can work for self-tanner, but if they’re loose or wrinkly, they might not apply the tanner evenly.

There’s no one “correct” amount of tanner to use. You might need to experiment a little to figure out how much you need. To start, make sure there’s enough product on your hand or mitt to cover the entire area you want to tan.

Try not to bend your fingers. The tanner will go on more smoothly if you keep your palm flat. [11] X Research source Check yourself periodically in the mirror to make sure you haven’t missed any spots.

This method is great for applying tanner to your knees, underarms, fingers, and toes. If you don’t have a foundation sponge, a sponge paintbrush also works.

Try not to touch your skin too much; it can leave marks. Avoid showering for 10 hours after applying the tanner.

Most of the time, your tan will naturally fade in about a week, so don’t worry if your tan looks like it’s fading after a few days.

Makeup removal wipes will also fade self-tanner, but they’re better for fixing huge discolored patches, not small streaks.