As someone who has fair skin, choosing a self-tanner can be tricky. I have spent years trying to find a brand that works. I have had many trial and errors with self tanners. So I wanted to create a post for people who would like a self tanner that compliments their undertones. If you are not sure what undertones your skin has, check out my post on quick methods for finding your undertone.

Color Theory

Why do you need to know your undertone before selecting a self tanner? Because your undertone affects how the color develops. This is based on the undertone of the self-tanner as well. Using color theory, I have selected self-tanners that counter-balance undertones. This ensures that the tanner doesn’t look too orange, brown, or green on the skin. Using the color wheel, color theory suggests that colors can cancel each other out. Colors on opposite sides of each other cancel out. So for example, reddish tones can be cancelled out with green.  

Self-Tanner for Cool & Neutral Undertones

If you have cool or neutral undertones, you need a self-tanner that has more greens in it. My top picks are:

• Vita Liberata pHenomenal 2-3 Week Tinted Tan Mousse: $38.99
  • Note: this one is only for cool tones. It may turn up too green if you have a neutral undertone.
• VersaSpa Bronzing Mist Self-Tan Spray in shade Monterey: $45.00
• Palm Beach Tan Black Label Perfect Sunless Bronzing Mist (original formula, in-store only): $69.00

Self-Tanner for Warm & Olive Undertones

If you have either warm or olive undertones, I recommend getting a self-tanner with violet undertones. Here are some of my picks:

• Vita Liberata Fabulous Self-Tanning Gradual Lotion: $19.99
  • Note: this one is only for olive tones.
• VersaSpa Bronzing Mist Self-Tan Spray in shade Malibu: $45.00
• Palm Beach Tan Black Label Indiglow Bronzing Mist (in-store only): $69.00

Application Tips

If you are new to self-tanning here are a few tips to perfect your tan:

• Exfoliate prior to application. This gets rid of dead skin cells on the surface and helps create a more even tan.
• Apply lotion to dry areas of the skin (elbows, knees, ankles). This prevents build up in these areas.
• Use a mitt. Do not apply self tanner directly with your hand; use a mitt.
• Rub your self tanner in big circles. This also helps create a more even tan and avoids streaks. 
• Wash your hands and feet after. Rinse your hands and feet thoroughly. Then use a small makeup sponge to apply and blend to the tops of your feet and hands. The sponge is also great for applying tanner to your face. 
• Let your tan develop. Wear loose clothing to avoid your tan from rubbing off. Unless the instructions on the self-tanner tell you to rinse, avoid getting wet or swimming for 4-6 hours.