No Sun, No Problem: Self-Tanning Guide to a Confidence Boost

Whether heading to a tropical getaway for spring break or simply wanting to beat the winter blues, achieving a gorgeous, sun-kissed glow has never been easier. Cold Canadian winters can leave our skin looking pale and dull, but that doesn’t mean you have to wait for summer to radiate confidence. The best part? You can achieve a bronzed look without the harmful effects of UV exposure. With the right products and techniques, your self-tan can be seamless and natural-looking.

 

Why Choose Self-Tanning?

 

Sun exposure can cause premature aging, sunspots, and serious skin damage. Self-tanning allows you to achieve a natural-looking tan without UV exposure, keeping your skin healthy and youthful. Plus, with premium self-tanning brands like NUDA and COOLA, you can achieve a streak-free, professional-looking tan at home.

 

Self-Tanning Tips for a Flawless Finish

Prep Your Skin Like a Pro

 

A smooth canvas ensures an even, long-lasting tan.

• Exfoliate: Use a gentle body scrub to remove dead skin cells, paying extra attention to dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.
  • Cult-Favourite: C & The Moon Malibu Made Body Scrub
• Shave or wax in advance: To avoid irritation and uneven absorption, do this at least 24 hours before tanning.
• Moisturize dry areas: To prevent excess product absorption, apply a light layer of moisturizer to elbows, knees, and ankles.
  • Cult-Favourite: Bioderma Atoderm Cream

 

Choose the Right Self-Tanner

 

Different formulas work best for different skin types and tanning goals.

 

NUDA Self-Tanning Mousse – Buildable & Natural

 

This lightweight mousse delivers a natural, streak-free tan with a flawless finish. It’s infused with skin-loving ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil to hydrate the skin.

• Best for: A buildable tan with a natural look.
• How to use: Apply with a mitt in circular motions and let it develop for 6–8 hours before rinsing.

 

COOLA Organic Sunless Tan Firming Lotion – Hydrating & Gradual

 

COOLA’s formula nourishes the skin with natural ingredients while delivering a gradual, even tan with a firming effect.

• Best for: Those wanting a subtle, buildable glow.
• How to use: Apply evenly and build up the colour over several applications.

 

Application Techniques for an Even Glow

• Use a tanning mitt: This ensures an even application and prevents stained hands.
  Cult-Favourite: NUDA Tanning Mitt
• Work in sections: Start with your legs, then torso, arms, and finish with your hands and feet.
• Blend well: Use a damp beauty sponge or brush to blend tricky areas like wrists, ankles, and neck.
  • Cult-Favourite: NUDA Blending Brush

 

Post-Tan Care for a Long-Lasting Glow

• Avoid water for at least 6–8 hours while the tan develops.
• Hydrate daily with a lightweight moisturizer to prevent fading and patchiness.
• Use a gradual tanning lotion to maintain your glow longer.
• Pat skin dry after showers instead of rubbing it with a towel.

 

Get Your Glow On

 

Self-tanning is the perfect way to achieve a healthy, sun-kissed look year-round without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. Whether you’re prepping for a tropical getaway or just want to warm up your winter skin, NUDA and COOLA have the perfect self-tanning solutions.

 

Enjoy your glow,

 

Jess

 

*image credit: @eacourtss