Self Tanning
Learn how to apply self-tanner without a mitt with these five alternatives. Get yourself a sun-kissed glow without stress or breaking the bank.
Gorgeous, glowing skin is easier than ever with incredible products like gradual tanners and self-tanning mousses. The key to a beautiful sunless tan is mastering the application technique and having the right tools.
Gorgeous, glowing skin is easier than ever with incredible products like gradual tanners and self-tanning mousses. The key to a beautiful sunless tan is mastering the application technique and having the right tools.
One tool that you don't want to skip is a tanning mitt. If you're in a pinch and need bronzed skin but don't have a tanning mitt, there are some easy alternatives to still get that perfect radiance.
The first alternative tool to reach for if you don't have a tanning mitt available is a set of rubber gloves. Grab the rubber gloves you keep under the kitchen or bathroom sink and get your tanning cream ready. Rubber gloves are a great alternative to applying self-tanner without a tanning mitt because they provide a clean and easy application that protects your hands.
They also won't absorb any self-tanner like a mitt does, saving you some additional product. Put on the rubber gloves, squirt your self-tanner onto the gloves, and apply all over your body. When you're done, quickly rinse the tanner off of the rubber gloves and avoid staining and streaking on your hands and fingernails. Then, store the gloves in a cool, dry place so you can reuse them for the next self-tanner application.
If you don't have any rubber gloves handy, you can also use a sock for self-tanner application. Go with a thicker sock that doesn't have a match and use it to give your skin a healthy tan glow. Slipper socks may be a great option for a self-tanner applicator because of their thickness.
We recommend you turn the sock inside out and then start applying self-tanner. When you begin smoothing the tanner over your skin, the sock’s fabric will absorb some of the liquid and give you a perfect hue. When you're finished, wash your hands and either toss the sock in the trash or wash it. But don't make the mistake of accidentally wearing the sock and getting self-tanner all over your feet and toes.
Cling wrap also makes a good tanning applicator alternative in a bind. It's inexpensive and an excellent way to avoid making a mess on your hands. Opt for a high-quality cling wrap product that doesn't stick or bunch up when layered. Start by wrapping a thick layer of cling wrap around your hand. The cling wrap should be somewhat tight but not so tight that it makes your fingers numb.
Try to position the cling wrap around your fingers as smoothly as possible before using this method to apply a self-tanner. This will ensure the tanner goes on evenly and doesn't look blotchy or rough. You should also check that there aren't any gaps in the cling wrap coverage over your hand or fingers.
Self-tanning towelettes are also a great option that keeps the mess to a minimum. Tanning towelettes are disposable products that can be used once and thrown away. The wipes are wrapped individually as a moist towelette with added self-tanner. Tanning wipes can be stored in your pocket or purse whenever you want to elevate your bronze look, they are perfect for travel!
Using self-tanning towelettes is simple. You unwrap them and apply the tanner to your body. They make a convenient alternative to a tanning mitt, especially while traveling. After applying the self-tanner with the wipes, you'll need to thoroughly wash your hands to get any leftover product off your fingers and nails.
The last easy alternative to applying self-tanner without using a tanning mitt is to apply it with your hands. This is the last alternative because there is a possibility of being left with dark hands and tanning residue that's tough to remove completely.
The reality is many people use their hands to apply self-tanner and have great results. If you can apply evenly with just your hands and not have a big mess to clean up afterward, this strategy may work for you. Once you're finished putting the tanner on, thoroughly remove the tanner and clean your hands off. Exfoliate your hands as soon as possible to keep the tone from setting into your skin and staining. Clean off your fingernails as much as possible so your hands don't look dirty.
If you're still determined to not use a mitt, there are some tips to help you get smoother, more natural results. Here are our best strategies for how to apply self-tanner without a mitt:
Tanning mitt alternatives can work pretty well if you aren't able to access one. However, if you use self-tanner on a regular basis, it's best to invest in this inexpensive and useful tanning tool. Here's why you need a tanning mitt:
Besides investing in a tanning mitt, we recommend other tricks so your beautiful bronze skin looks amazing and natural. So whether you're trying to figure out how to apply a sunless tan without a mitt or how to make your tan last longer, we've got you covered. Whenever you want to apply self-tanner at home, follow these tips for beautiful results:
At Jergens Skincare, we want you to be happy with your skin and get the perfect shade of bronze every time you use a self-tanner. It's also best to invest in a tanning mitt, but we know life sometimes gets in the way, and you may be in a pinch. Try our suggestions for tanning mitt alternatives to get your best glow even if you don't have a mitt available. You can get the results you want from your self-tanner with our moisturizer and bronzer products and by having the right tools ready to go when you want your summer glow.