We all wish to get that glowing dark tan as it enhances our beauty and makes us look more gorgeous.
However, using different tanning methods like sun tanning, self-tanners, and tanning beds can cause severe damage to our skin if used frequently or for long hours.
While sun tanning and using tanning beds our skin gets exposed to UV rays that increase melanin production and thus, make us tan.
On the other hand, self-tanning products and spray tans contain DHA ( dihydroxyacetone) to help us get that dark bronzed look.
Too much exposure to UV rays and DHA can lead to dryness, premature aging, and permanent damage to our skin.
Being, a tanning expert here I will share with you some of the most effective DIY self-tanners that can help you get that natural sun-kissed look without damaging your skin.
I will share with you the ingredients used to prepare these DIY self-tanner that does not wash off so, that you can easily prepare your favorite one at home without spending a lot of money.
DIY Homemade Self-tanners That Do Not Wash Off
These homemade self-tanners can be easily prepared at home using some simple and natural ingredients.
1. Coffee Bronzing Oil
This self-tanner can be easily prepared and used at home as it does not stain your upholstery and clothes. Besides, helping you get that glowing tan this self-tanner also moisturizes your skin completely.
To get the darker color you can use more coffee grounds and the mica used will give your skin a shimmery effect.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon dark roast or medium roast unused ground coffee
- 2-3 ounces of olive or jojoba oil
- 1 tablespoon shimmer eye shadow or bronze mica powder.
How to Prepare:
Step 1: Use a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle to grind the coffee and mica together.
Step 2: Take olive or jojoba oil in a bowl and mix the powder with oil. After a proper stir keep it aside for 2 days so, that the color sets completely.
Step 3: After two days you will notice the mixture of the coffee, mica, and oil has turned darker.
How to use:
- Now, you can use this DIY self-tanner after cleaning your skin.
- This self-tanner can be stored for a month in the refrigerator if you store it in an airtight container.
2. Cocoa and Essential Oil DIY Tanner
This tanning lotion is prepared using natural ingredients like cocoa and frankincense essential oil.
This essential oil is very effective in treating inflamed skin, acne, and infections as it contains anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and anti-bacterial properties.
This DIY self-tanner can get washed off if gets wet.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 tablespoons of baking cocoa
- 1 cup good quality unscented lotion
- A few drops of frankincense essential oil (optional)
- A small airtight glass jar
How to Prepare:
Step 1: Mix the baking cocoa with the unscented lotion to prepare a paste.
Step 2: You can use a mixer to break up all the chunks so, that mixture becomes smooth
Step 3: Now add frankincense oil to the mixture if you want as it is optional.
Step 4: Store this mixture in an air-tight glass jar and keep it in a cool, dry place.
How to use:
- To remove dead skin cells exfoliate your skin properly using a natural scrub and then wash off and pat dry your skin.
- Now apply this DIY self-tanner all over your body and let it dry out completely
- As this tanning lotion is made of natural ingredients so, you can also use it on your face.
3. Black Tea and Rose Water Tanning Mist
As this tanning lotion contains tea, it is one of the best and most long-lasting DIY self-tanner.
This tanner gets easily absorbed by your skin and keeps your skin hydrated besides tanning.
This tanning lotion does not get washed off easily.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rose water
- 5-6 black tea bags
How to Prepare:
Step 1: Seep the tea bags into a measuring cup or bowl
Step 2: Heat the rosewater and pour it into the cup or bowl where the tea bags are placed
Step 3: Leave it for half an hour and then remove the tea bags.
Step 4: Transfer this solution into a spray bottle when the mixture cools down.
How to use:
- You can easily spray this solution on your dry, clean skin whenever you want that golden glow
- You can store this solution in an airtight container for a week in the refrigerator.
4. Cocoa and Lavender Sunless Tanning Lotion
This DIY self-tanner is prepared using natural ingredients like lavender oil and cocoa which contains antioxidant properties.
This lotion nourishes and makes your skin healthy besides tanning.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoon Cocoa powder ( can be used more if you want darker color)
- 5 to 6 drops of lavender essential oil
- 3 tablespoon body lotion
How to Prepare:
Step 1: Take 3 tbsp. body lotion in a small bowl
Step 2: Add the cocoa powder to the lotion
Step 3: Now add lavender oil and stir well to prepare a smooth mixture
How to use:
- You can use this mixture all over your body to get that dark bronzed look.
- You can also store this homemade self-tanner for a month in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Final Thought
The DIY self-tanners shared above do not wash off easily and are some of the best and long-lasting products that you can easily prepare at home using natural ingredients.
They are quite safe for your skin and help you get that glowing, sun-kissed look without causing damage to your skin.
Do remember to let the tanner get completely absorbed by your skin before dressing as some of them may lead to stains.
I’ve been using black tea and a little vitamin E for years. Love it.
Hi does it work and does it last long?
Best wishes
Belinda
Does this work well? We are moving and the new owners want the tanning bed. I don’t want to buy a new one,so I’m looking for other options. Tell me about it please.
A few applications will show the desired result. As these self-tanners are made by using natural ingredients so, there are no harmful side effects.
Sounds like the best 2 ingredients that’ll actually work if yah ask my opinion! Good thinking
Is the application process the same as with all other self tanners i.e., taking special care around knees, ankles, etc.? Exfoliating, moisturizing?
Yes, the application process is the same as for other self-tanners. As the skin of our ankles, knees, and elbows are tougher than other parts of our body so, taking extra care of these parts before using any self-tanning product can be better. However, don’t be very harsh while exfoliating.
Do these come off when you shower?
Unlike all other self-tanners, you should not take a shower immediately just after application.
About how long does the lavender tanner last?
Hey Torie
It mainly depends on your skin type. So, if you have dry skin it will last longer. The tan may fade away within 6 to 8 hours if you sweat more. You can use a setting spray to lock in the color and always exfoliate your skin before applying the tanner. Using a good moisturizer afterward can also make the tan last longer.
how long does the coffe bronzing oil last
A DIY coffee bronzing oil may last anywhere from 1 to 3 days. it depends mainly on how frequently you apply it, the strength of the bronzer, and the type of oil used. For example, coconut oil is more likely to fade quickly than jojoba oil.