Let's Go Back To Tanning Basics... Tanning Like A Pro

Go back to basics, so we’re more informed and can glow better—these self tanning basics make every application easier. Learning about the simplest things can make the biggest difference for your skin and your glow. So, let’s do it- welcome to tanning 101 babes- let’s dive in! Before we get into products, a few tanning basic rules: know your skin, start with a plan, and don’t chase a base tan through risky exposure.

Let’s talk product. Isle of Paradise has a format for everyBODY, so get ready to glow your way with a self tanner that fits your routine:

Drops: Mix these custom self-tanning drops with your daily moisturiser for a custom glow—an easy self tanner option. Easy, straightforward, and no-extra steps required.

Water: Use our lightweight self-tanning water to mist onto skin for quick & easy tanning—this self tanner is great when you want something fast. We call this a spray tan in a bottle—perfect for anyone who wants to tan in a flash, and the transparent formula allows a no-mess application, every time.

Mousse: We’re still obsessed with this classic self-tanning format for full body tanning—another self tanner staple. Choose how you glow- clear or classic- and apply with your Isle of Paradise Tanning Mitt. It couldn’t be easier to master.

Each product is available in three color

corrective shades, so always make sure to choose the right one for you:

• Light/Peach for a sun-kissed glow

• Medium/Green for a golden tan 

• Dark/Violet for a deep bronze

Now when it comes to application, each product has a different method to NAIL your glow. So listen up:

Drops: Apply like your regular moisturiser with your hands, and use your palms to blend evenly. More drops = more glow!

Water: Spritz onto skin & blend with hands or a mitt—use light passes so you don’t miss areas.

Mousse: Pump product onto tanning mitt & apply in sweeping motions, then use the mitt to blend as you go.

*remember to always wash your hands after application!

Skin Prep 101: Exfoliating + Moisturiser Before You Tan

Before any tanning, skin prep is the difference between a smooth glow and patchy color—so listen up babe: your skin sets the whole result. Start exfoliating about 24 hours before you tan to remove dry skin so self tanning can develop evenly and look more like real beauty (not a fake tan). Focus on rough areas like elbows, knees, ankles, hands, and feet, then rinse well in the shower (keep the water lukewarm so you avoid irritation). If you need to shave, do it at least a day before your tanning session—freshly shaved skin can grab pigment and look dotted. Next Step: hydration. Keep it simple and apply a lightweight moisturizer / moisturiser (or lotion) on the driest areas—knees, elbows, wrists, and any dry patches—so you avoid dark edges and keep skin looking smooth. This quick barrier helps your self tanner spread evenly across the body and keeps your fake tan looking natural. And if your “tan plan” includes sun time, don’t skip sunscreen for protection—healthy beauty starts with skin safety. UVA and UVB rays can cause damage, burn, and sunburn, and repeated exposure can increase skin cancer risk and impact long-term skin health. A dermatologist will always recommend the best base tan is the one you don’t chase with risky sun exposure—SPF is the healthy way to glow, and your melanin doesn’t need extra damage to show up.

How To Apply Self Tanner (No Streaks, Babes)

When it’s time to apply, pick one method and slow down—most streaks happen when you rush, and your skin shows every shortcut. For beginners, a tanning mitt gives you the most control. Pump foam or mousse onto the mitt, then apply self tanner in long, sweeping motions, working section by section: legs, arms, torso, then back—take your time with each section. This step-by-step approach helps you keep an even Level of color and makes it easier to blend. Use less product on joints and smaller areas. Lightly apply self tanner over knees, elbows, ankles, and wrists, then go back with what’s left on the mitt to blend (trust—this is how you avoid harsh lines). For the face, mix with a little moisturizer / moisturiser or lotion and apply in thin layers so the look stays natural, and keep the hairline and brows clean. Want Instant reassurance while you apply? Choose a Bronzer guide color so you can see what you’re doing, spot missed areas, and reduce streaks. Finish by washing your hands, then give it a few hours to develop before you wear anything tight—results stay smoother when you let your skin dry properly, and that smooth finish is peak beauty. Pro tan tips: if you want a deeper look, start with one light session, wait the full develop time, then decide if you need a second session—stacking too much product too fast is how streaks happen.

Choose Your Glow: Self Tanning, Spray Tan, Or Indoor Tanning

Not all tanning is created equal, so choose what works for your skin type, time, and comfort level—what you need is the option you can stick to. Self tanning at home (drops, water, foam, or mousse) is sunless, gradual, and designed to develop color on the top layer of skin—perfect if you want control, easy touch-ups, and a glow that fits your routine. Want a flawless finish for vacation or a big day? A professional spray tan at a tanning salon can be best, especially if reaching your back is a struggle, and it can feel like a real pro-level beauty experience. A pro can help you choose the right Level and shade so your body looks even. A good tanning salon will talk you through prep, what to wear, and how long to wait before showering so your color sets evenly—if you’re unsure, ask questions so you know exactly what to do.

Aftercare 101: Make Your Tan Last (And Fade Evenly)

Aftercare is where self tanning really pays off, babe—your skin will hold color longer when it’s hydrated. Once your self tanner has had time to develop, take your first shower without harsh scrubbing and avoid exfoliating for a couple of days—otherwise you’ll remove color too fast. Pat skin dry, then use moisturizer / moisturiser or a hydrating lotion daily to stop dry skin from cracking and fading in patches—this is the easiest way to keep the look even. Hydration helps your tan fade gradually and keeps the look smooth. To maintain results, avoid long hot showers, heavy Oil-based body products right after you apply, and anything that makes you sweat a lot on day one—these can lead to streaks and uneven wear. If you notice uneven areas, gently exfoliate just that spot, then apply self tanner again in a thin layer to blend. For lots of beginners, the best routine is a light reapply every few days (instead of one heavy application), and it turns your routine into a more predictable session. It’s more effective, looks more natural, and helps you achieve that consistent glow—once you know what works, it gets easy.

Choose The Best Tanning Products For Your Skin Type

Choosing tanning products gets way easier when you match the formula to your skin type and your glow goal, so you know exactly what you’re getting. Check the ingredients if you’re sensitive: fragrance, alcohol, and certain actives can irritate skin, especially on the face. If your skin runs dry, self tanning drops you can mix into moisturizer / moisturiser are perfect, or pair your self tanner with a nourishing lotion so color doesn’t cling to dry areas. If you’re oily (or you just want fast-drying), a lightweight water or foam can feel more comfortable and still deliver a clear, natural finish—especially handy in winter. Now think about depth. Light shades are best for an everyday day glow, while Dark or Bronze options help you build a deeper look over a couple of applications—great when winter makes you feel washed out. If you want help with flawless application, a Bronzer guide color lets you see where you apply and where to blend. And if you’re mixing methods—self tanning at home plus sun exposure—keep sunscreen (SPF) in your routine for protection. UV rays can burn and cause skin damage even when you’re not trying to tan, so staying safe is always part of the glow and long-term skin health.