How to Prepare Your Skin Before Self Tanning

The secret to a flawless, long-lasting self tan isn't just the formula you use, it's how you prep your skin beforehand. Taking a little extra time before you tan makes a real difference to how evenly the colour develops, how smoothly it applies, and how well it holds over time. Here's everything you need to know about pre-tan prep, and the two Bali Body tools that make it easy. Why Skin Prep Matters Self tan develops by reacting with the outermost layer of your skin cells. When that layer is uneven, full of dry patches, product build-up, or old tan, the colour has an uneven surface to work with. That’s where streaks, patchiness, and dark spots can creep in. A properly prepped, smooth, and hydrated skin surface gives your tan the best possible base to develop evenly and fade gracefully. Step One: Remove Old Tan Before applying a fresh self tan, it's worth removing any remaining colour from your last application. This avoids build-up, ensures even colour development, and prevents any old patchiness from showing through your new tan. The Express Tan Remover Scrub is the most effective way to do this. Unlike a standard body scrub, this formula combines physical and chemical exfoliants (pumice and lactic acid) to actively break down the self tan colour rather than just scrubbing it away. This means less effort and less risk of irritating the skin in the process. To use, apply the scrub directly to dry skin and leave it for 1 to 3 minutes to allow the formula to work into the tan. Then step into the shower and use the Exfoliating Mitt to gently buff away the old colour in circular motions. The result is clean, smooth skin with no traces of old tan. Also infused with grapefruit peel oil and urea, it leaves the skin feeling soft and supple, not stripped.   Step Two: Exfoliate for a Smooth Canvas Even when there's no old tan to remove, exfoliating before self tanning is one of the most effective steps you can take. Buffing away dead skin cells creates a smooth, even surface for the tan to grip to, helping it develop more uniformly and last longer. The Exfoliating Mitt is designed exactly for this. Used in the shower on damp skin, it gently buffs the skin's surface without over-stripping it. Pay particular attention to naturally dry and rough areas including the elbows, knees, ankles, and hands, as these tend to absorb more colour and can turn darker without proper prep. For best results, exfoliate 24 hours before tanning rather than immediately before. This gives the skin time to settle back to its natural pH, which helps the self tan develop more evenly. Step Three: Moisturise Dry Areas Once you've exfoliated, apply a light moisturiser to any particularly dry areas before tanning. Dry skin absorbs more product and can result in darker, patchier colour in those spots. A small amount of moisturiser on the elbows, knees, ankles, and hands helps create a barrier so the tan develops more evenly across these areas. Step Four: Apply to Clean, Dry Skin When you're ready to tan, make sure the skin is completely dry before application. Any moisture on the skin can dilute the formula and lead to an uneven result. Apply your chosen Bali Body self tan using the Luxe Tanning Mitt and blend in long, sweeping motions for a streak-free finish. Shop the Exfoliating Mitt and Express Tan Remover Scrub online now.  

The Best Self Tan for Sensitive Skin

Finding a self tan for sensitive skin can feel like a challenge. Many formulas leave the skin feeling dry or  irritated which puts a lot of people off trying self tan altogether. The good news is that the right formula makes all the difference, and every product in the Bali Body range is designed with exactly this in mind. Is Bali Body Safe for Sensitive Skin? Yes. The entire Bali Body self tan range is dermatologically and clinically tested and safe for sensitive skin. Every formula is made with naturally derived ingredients, is 100% cruelty free, and is developed to be gentle enough for daily use across all skin types. Whether you're new to self tanning or have struggled to find a formula that agrees with your skin in the past, Bali Body is a range built with you in mind. Why Skin Barrier Health Matters for Self Tanning For sensitive skin in particular, a healthy skin barrier is everything. When the skin barrier is compromised, it's more prone to reacting to new products, absorbing ingredients unevenly, and developing dry or patchy areas. A well-nourished, hydrated skin barrier not only helps protect against irritation but also creates a smoother, more even base for self tan to develop on. These products are some of the best self tan for sensitive skin in the Bali Body range, thanks to their skin-loving, barrier-supporting formulas. Gradual Tanning Butter For sensitive skin that leans dry, the Gradual Tanning Butter is one of the most nourishing self tan options available. This 4-in-1 formula hydrates, tans, illuminates, and repairs the skin in a single step, making it a genuinely skin-loving addition to your daily routine. Enriched with niacinamide and shea butter, it deeply moisturises while building a subtle, buildable glow over time. The gradual formula means there's no sudden colour payoff to worry about, just a slow, natural-looking tan that develops at your pace. For sensitive skin types who want a streak-free tan without the risk of irritation, this is an ideal starting point. Self Tan Body Milk The Self Tan Body Milk is one of Bali Body's most popular formulas, and it's easy to see why it resonates so strongly with sensitive skin types. Formulated with 93% skincare ingredients, it functions as much as a treatment as it does a self tan. Key ingredients include a 4x hyaluronic acid complex for deep, lasting hydration, ceramides to support and strengthen the skin barrier, and Vitamin C to brighten and even skin tone. The rinse-free formula absorbs easily into the skin, making it simple to incorporate into an existing skincare or bodycare routine. For those who want a hydrated self tan that actively works to improve skin condition over time, Self Tan Body Milk is the one. Gradual Tan The Gradual Tan is a lightweight daily lotion that builds a natural-looking glow with each application, making it one of the best self tans for sensitive skin. Because colour develops gradually rather than all at once, it gives you full control over depth while minimising the chance of an uneven or reactive result. Its moisturising texture blends effortlessly into the skin and supports hydration with every use. For those who want to ease into self tanning or prefer a low-commitment, buildable formula they can work into their everyday routine, this is a brilliant option. Tips for Self Tanning with Sensitive Skin A few simple habits can help ensure the best possible result. Always patch test a new formula before applying it all over. Exfoliate gently 24 hours before tanning using the Exfoliating Mitt to create a smooth, even base without over-stripping the skin. Keep skin well moisturised leading up to application, paying particular attention to dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. And after your tan has developed, maintain hydration daily to keep both your skin barrier and your glow in the best condition. Find Your Sensitive Skin Self Tan With the full Bali Body range dermatologically and clinically tested safe for sensitive skin, there's no reason to miss out on a natural-looking, streak-free tan. Shop the Gradual Tanning Butter, Self Tan Body Milk, and Gradual Tan online now and find the formula that works best for your skin.  

The Best Self Tanning Mitts and Tools

A great self tan starts with the right formula, but the tools you use make just as much of a difference. The best self tanning mitt or brush does more than just apply product, it helps distribute colour evenly, reduces streaks, and gives you far more control over the finish. Whether you're a first-time tanner or a self tan regular, having the right tools in your routine is the simplest upgrade you can make. Here's a breakdown of the Bali Body tanning tools worth knowing about, and how each one fits into your routine. Why Using a Tanning Mitt Matters Applying self tan directly with your hands leads to stained palms and uneven blending. A dedicated self tanning mitt creates a smooth barrier between your skin and the product, allowing for more even coverage and a more controlled application. It also helps the formula glide more evenly across the skin, which is particularly important for streak-prone areas like the knees, ankles, and elbows. Luxe Tanning Mitt The Luxe Tanning Mitt is the best self tan mitt for everyday use. Designed with an extended fabric length and a softer, more textured surface, it distributes product smoothly and evenly across the body. The elastic wristband keeps the tanning mitt securely in place during application, while the thumb grip allows for precise blending into tricky areas. Compatible with aerosols, mousses, and creams, it works with every formula in the Bali Body range. After use, simply rinse with warm soapy water. It's reusable and easy to maintain. The Luxe Tanning Mitt is the ideal starting point for anyone looking for a reliable, streak-free tan application. Body Blending Brush For those who want a more precise, professional finish, the Body Blending Brush is the self tan brush to reach for. With ultra-soft, 100% vegan bristles, it buffs self tan into every contour of the body for a seamlessly blended result. Its wide, flat design makes it especially useful for larger surface areas and harder to reach spots like the hands, neck and décolletage. The Body Blending Brush works beautifully with mousses and creams, and is particularly effective for achieving a smooth, airbrushed finish. Like the mitt, it's reusable and easy to clean, making it a long-term addition to your tanning toolkit. If you're looking for the best brush for self tan application, particularly for a more sculpted or blended result, this is it. Pink Exfoliating Mitt A streak-free tan starts before you even open the bottle. The Pink Exfoliating Mitt is designed for pre-tan prep and tan removal, making it an essential part of any self tanning routine. Used before tanning, this exfoliation mitt buffs away dead skin cells to create a smooth, even canvas for your tan to develop on. Used after tanning, it gently removes old self tan without harsh scrubbing, especially when paired with the Bali Body Express Tan Remover Scrub. Reusable and easy to clean, it's a simple tool that makes a real difference to how your tan applies and how long it lasts. Think of the Pink Exfoliating Mitt as your before and after tanning essential. How to Use Your Tanning Tools Together Getting the most out of your self tan tools is about using them in the right order. Start by exfoliating with the Pink Exfoliating Mitt before tanning to remove any old tan and prep the skin. Then apply your chosen Bali Body self tan using the Luxe Tanning Mitt for an all-over even base, then use the Body Blending Brush to buff into contours and blend any edges. After your tan has run its course, use the Exfoliating Mitt again to remove it evenly and prep for your next application. Together, these three tools cover every step of the self tanning process, from prep to application to removal. Shop the full accessories range online now.

Celebrating Our Face Tan Milk Launch in LA With a Café Takeover

On March 14, we took over Carrera Cafe on Melrose for a very exciting event - the launch of Face Tan Milk. The pop-up brought the world of Face Tan Milk to life in the heart of LA, with custom branding throughout the space and specially created drinks that celebrated the cereal theme of the launch. Every customer who purchased a custom drink received a Face Tan Milk to take home, and the energy from the moment doors opened was something special. There was a line around the cafe all day, with the LA community coming out in full force to be part of the moment.   Founder David and Creative Director Harriet were on the ground to meet guests, chat all things Face Tan Milk, and celebrate what this launch means for the brand. Alongside the LA event, a sister activation ran simultaneously in Sydney, making it a truly global launch day for Bali Body. Meet Face Tan Milk: The New Era of Facial Self-Tanning Face Tan Milk is our newest addition to the viral Tan Milk collection, and it's unlike anything we've made before. Think of it as your daily face moisturiser with a gradual tanning benefit built in - a skincare-first formula that delivers a natural-looking, streak-free face tan with every application. Formulated with 93% skincare ingredients, it's packed with a 4x Hyaluronic Acid complex for deep hydration, a 3x Ceramide blend to support and strengthen the skin barrier, and Vitamin C to brighten and even skin tone. The result is that coveted glass skin finish, with a buildable, sun-kissed glow that develops at your pace. The lightweight, milky serum texture absorbs instantly, making it suitable for daily use and easy to layer under moisturiser, SPF, or makeup. It's non-comedogenic, suitable for sensitive skin, and delivers a micro-dose of colour with each use so there's no guesswork. The result is a gradual, natural-looking face tan that builds beautifully over time. For anyone exploring facial self-tanning for the first time, or looking for a more skin-loving alternative to traditional face tanning drops or face tan serums, Face Tan Milk makes it effortless.  Shop Face Tan Milk here.

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How to Apply Self Tan Without Streaks: A Step-by-Step Guide

A streak-free self tan is less about luck and more about technique. The right prep, the right formula, and a few simple habits make all the difference between a patchy result and a flawless, natural-looking glow. How Do You Avoid Streaks When Self Tanning? Streaks happen when self tan is applied to uneven, dry, or unprepared skin. The solution is thorough exfoliation before tanning, clean and dry skin at application, and a formula with a colour guide so you can see exactly where you've applied. Step 1: Exfoliate at Least 24 Hours Before Tanning Exfoliation is the most important step in avoiding streaks. Buffing away dead skin cells creates a smooth, even surface for the tan to grip to, which means more even colour development and a longer-lasting result. Use the Exfoliating Mitt in the shower to gently buff all over, paying particular attention to the knees, elbows, ankles, and hands. These areas tend to absorb more product and can develop darker or patchier without proper prep. Exfoliate 24 hours before rather than right before tanning. This gives the skin time to return to its natural pH, which helps colour develop more evenly. Step 2: Skip the Shave on Tan Day Shave or wax at least 24 hours before tanning. Freshly shaved skin has open pores that can absorb self tan unevenly, leading to a speckled finish. Timing it right means your tan develops smoothly and lasts longer. Step 3: Keep Skin Clean and Product-Free Moisturisers, oils, deodorant, and perfume can all create a barrier that prevents self tan from developing evenly. Shower beforehand and apply your self tan to completely clean, dry skin with nothing else underneath. Step 4: Moisturise Dry Areas Before applying, dab a small amount of lightweight moisturiser onto dry areas like the elbows, knees, ankles, and hands. This slows product absorption in these spots and helps colour develop more evenly. Step 5: Choose a Formula with a Colour Guide A tinted formula lets you see exactly where you've applied product as you go, making it easy to spot missed areas before they develop. The Bali Body Self Tanning Mousse and the 1 Hour Express Self Tan both feature colour guide technology, making them two of the easiest streak-free options available. The guide colour washes off in the shower, leaving a smooth, natural-looking bronze behind. Step 6: Apply Using a Tanning Mitt Use the Luxe Tanning Mitt and apply in long, sweeping motions over larger areas, and circular motions around joints. For tricky spots like the neck and décolletage, the Body Blending Brush helps buff in product seamlessly. Always use less product around dry areas like knees, elbows, and ankles. Step 7: Blend the Edges and Wash Your Hands Pay close attention to the hairline, wrists, ankles, and between the fingers and toes. Use the remaining product on your mitt to lightly blend into these areas. Wash your hands thoroughly after to avoid stained palms. Step 8: Let It Dry Before Getting Dressed Allow your self tan to fully dry before putting on clothing. Opt for loose, dark clothing if you need to get dressed quickly, and avoid tight waistbands or straps that can rub the product off before it sets. How to Maintain a Streak-Free Tan Moisturise daily to help the tan fade evenly Avoid long baths or heavy sweating in the first 24 hours Use Gradual Tan or Self Tan Body Milk between applications to maintain colour Before reapplying, use the Exfoliating Mitt and Express Tan Remover Scrub to remove old tan first Shop the full range online here.

The Best Vegan Self Tanning Products

Finding a vegan self tan that actually delivers can feel harder than it should be. The good news is that every single Bali Body self tanning product is 100% vegan and cruelty free. No animal-derived ingredients. No animal testing. Just naturally derived formulas designed to give you a streak-free, natural-looking tan. Is Bali Body Vegan? Yes. The entire Bali Body self tan range is 100% vegan and cruelty free. Every formula is made with naturally derived ingredients and is never tested on animals. Why Choose a Vegan Self Tan? Vegan self tanning products avoid animal-derived ingredients commonly found in beauty products, such as beeswax, lanolin, and carmine. They also tend to lean on plant-based alternatives that are gentler on the skin, making them a great option for those with sensitive skin too. Choosing a cruelty free self tan means you can get your glow without compromise, and with Bali Body, you don't have to sacrifice colour payoff, longevity, or ease of application to do it. The Best Vegan Self Tanning Products from Bali Body For a Buildable, Gradual Glow Gradual Tan A vegan tanning lotion that doubles as a daily moisturiser. Enriched with coconut oil, cocoa butter, and coffee seed extract, the Gradual Tan builds a natural-looking tan with every application. It's ideal for those who want a subtle, buildable glow they can control day by day. Apply daily to clean, dry skin in place of your regular body moisturiser. Gradual Tanning Butter A 4-in-1 vegan self tan that hydrates, tans, illuminates, and repairs the skin in one step. Packed with niacinamide and shea butter, it's one of the most nourishing options in the range and works especially well for dry skin types. The colour builds gradually with each use for a soft, sun-kissed result. Self Tan Body Milk One of Bali Body's most popular vegan tanning products. Formulated with 93% skincare ingredients including a 4x hyaluronic acid complex, ceramides, and Vitamin C, it hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier while developing a natural, streak-free tan. Rinse-free and fast-absorbing, it fits seamlessly into any bodycare routine. For a Deeper Colour Self Tanning Mousse The cult favourite vegan Self Tan Mousse. Lightweight, fast-drying, and formulated with 100% natural DHA, it delivers a natural-looking bronze in 4 to 8 hours. The colour guide technology makes application easy to control, and the formula is suitable for all skin tones. Apply using the Luxe Tanning Mitt for a streak-free finish. Ultra Dark Self Tanning Mousse For a deeper, richer result, the Ultra Dark Self Tanning Mousse delivers a golden bronze with warm undertones. The green base helps neutralise any orange tones, making it ideal for medium to deeper skin tones looking for a bold, natural-looking glow. Deep Violet Self Tanning Mousse The deepest shade in the vegan mousse range. The violet base counteracts warm undertones for a cool, chocolatey olive result. Best suited to olive and deeper complexions wanting maximum colour payoff. For Zero Transfer, Fuss-Free Tanning Clear Self Tanning Gel A completely clear, zero-transfer vegan self tan gel enriched with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and aloe vera. No colour guide, no mess, no staining on clothes or sheets. Colour develops naturally over 4 to 6 hours for a smooth, buildable glow. Available in a generous 400ml bottle and suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin. Clear 1 Hour Express Self Tan A whipped, aerated vegan self tan foam that works as both an express and gradual tan. See results in as little as one hour or build over days for a deeper bronze. Infused with niacinamide, glycerin, and vitamin E, it's lightweight, rinse-free, and completely transfer-free. For Your Face Face Tan Milk A skincare-first vegan face self tan formulated with 93% skincare ingredients. The 4x hyaluronic acid complex, 3x ceramide blend, and Vitamin C hydrate, strengthen, and brighten the skin while delivering a gradual, natural-looking face tan with every application. Non-comedogenic, suitable for sensitive skin, and layers seamlessly under moisturiser, SPF, or makeup. Gradual Face Tan A daily vegan face moisturiser with a gradual tan built in. Fragrance-free and enriched with sweet almond oil and shea butter, it's one of the gentlest facial self tanning options available. Suitable for daily use and ideal for anyone wanting a no-fuss, skin-loving daily face glow. How to Get the Best Result from Vegan Self Tan Vegan self tanning formulas perform best on well-prepped skin. A few simple steps make a real difference: Exfoliate 24 hours before tanning using the Exfoliating Mitt to create a smooth, even base Moisturise dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles before applying your tan Apply to clean, dry skin using the Luxe Tanning Mitt for mousses and lotions Keep skin hydrated daily after tanning to extend the life of your glow Use the Gradual Tan or Self Tan Body Milk between applications to maintain and build colour Shop the full vegan self tan range online now.

The Best Self Tan for Your Skin Type

Not all self tans are created equal, and the formula that works best for you comes down to your skin type. Using the right self tan makes application easier, helps colour develop more evenly, and keeps your skin in better condition throughout the process. Here's how to find your match. Which Self Tan Is Best for Your Skin Type? Dry skin: Gradual Tan or Self Tan Body Milk Oily or combination skin: Self Tanning Mousse Sensitive skin: Clear Self Tanning Gel Does Skin Type Affect How Self Tan Develops? Yes. Self tan reacts with the outermost layer of your skin cells, which means your skin's condition directly affects the result. Dry skin can absorb more product in certain areas, leading to patchiness. Oily skin can cause some formulas to slide or fade faster. Sensitive skin may react to certain ingredients. Choosing a formula suited to your skin type means a more even result and a better overall experience. Best Self Tan for Dry Skin Dry skin needs a formula that hydrates as it tans. Without enough moisture, self tan can settle unevenly into dry patches and fade patchily over time. Gradual Tan The Gradual Tan is a daily moisturising lotion that builds a natural-looking, buildable tan with every application. Enriched with coconut oil, cocoa butter, and coffee seed extract, it deeply nourishes the skin while developing a subtle, streak-free glow. Because colour builds gradually, it's easy to manage and maintain, making it ideal for dry skin types who want consistent hydration alongside their tan. Apply daily to clean, dry skin as a replacement for your regular body moisturiser. Self Tan Body Milk For dry skin that needs more intensive care, Self Tan Body Milk is the more advanced option. Formulated with 93% skincare ingredients, it combines a 4x hyaluronic acid complex, ceramides, and Vitamin C to deeply hydrate, strengthen the skin barrier, and brighten over time. The rinse-free formula absorbs quickly and fits seamlessly into an existing bodycare routine. It's one of the most skin-loving self tans available, and the results speak for themselves. Both are excellent choices for dry skin. The Gradual Tan is a great everyday option, while Self Tan Body Milk is ideal for those wanting active skincare benefits alongside their glow. Best Self Tan for Oily or Combination Skin Oily and combination skin types do better with lightweight, fast-drying formulas that don't add extra moisture or feel heavy on the skin. Self Tanning Mousse The Self Tanning Mousse is the best self tan for oily and combination skin. Its lightweight, aerated texture dries quickly and sits lightly on the skin, making it far less likely to slide, transfer, or fade unevenly. The colour guide technology makes application easy to control, and the 100% natural DHA formula delivers a natural-looking, streak-free tan that develops over 4 to 8 hours. Apply using the Luxe Tanning Mitt for the most even result. For deeper colour, the Ultra Dark Self Tanning Mousse delivers the same lightweight texture with a richer, golden finish. Best Self Tan for Sensitive Skin Sensitive skin does best with formulas that are free from heavy guide colours, fragrance-forward ingredients, and anything that might cause irritation. Clear Self Tanning Gel The Clear Self Tanning Gel is the standout option for sensitive skin. The completely clear, colourless formula contains no guide colour, which means fewer potential irritants and zero risk of transfer onto clothes or sheets. Enriched with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and aloe vera, it actively soothes and hydrates while the tan develops. It's rinse-free, fast-absorbing, and suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin. Colour develops naturally over 4 to 6 hours for a smooth, natural-looking glow. It's worth noting that the entire Bali Body self tan range is dermatologically and clinically tested safe for sensitive skin, so there are plenty of options to explore. How to Get the Best Result Whatever Your Skin Type Regardless of which formula you choose, a few habits make a real difference: Exfoliate 24 hours before tanning using the Exfoliating Mitt to create a smooth, even base Moisturise dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles before applying tan Always apply self tan to clean, dry skin Use the Luxe Tanning Mitt for streak-free application with mousses and lotions Keep skin hydrated daily after tanning to extend the life of your glow Find Your Perfect Self Tan Whether you have dry, oily, combination, or sensitive skin, there's a Bali Body formula designed to work with your skin, not against it. Shop the full self tan range online to find myour match.  

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