We’ve all been there — streaks, orange hands, patchy ankles. If your self tan hasn’t been giving main character glow, chances are you’re making one of these common mistakes. But don’t stress — we’re breaking down exactly what to avoid and how to fix it, so your next tan is your best yet.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned bronzing pro, here are the 7 self tanning mistakes to avoid:
1. Skipping Proper Prep
The mistake: Applying tan without exfoliating or shaving first
The fix:
Dry patches = patchy tan. Always exfoliate 24 hours before tanning to remove dead skin and ensure an even application. Our Exfoliating Mitt is your prep essential.
2. Tanning Over Old Tan
The mistake: Layering tan on top of leftover product
The fix:
Always remove old tan before reapplying. Otherwise, your glow can go patchy and uneven. If you’re reapplying weekly, use our Exfoliating Mitt or keep an eye out for our upcoming Tan Remover.
3. Using Your Hands to Blend
The mistake: Blending with bare hands (yep, the orange palms are a giveaway)
The fix:
Always apply your tan with a velvety-soft mitt to keep things smooth and streak-free — and your palms stain-free. For tricky areas like hands and ankles, a Kabuki Brush gives a flawless, buffed finish.
4. Applying Too Much on Dry Areas
The mistake: Overloading product on elbows, knees, and ankles
The fix:
These spots absorb more product. Apply a light layer of moisturiser first, then use your kabuki brush to buff in a tiny amount of tan for a seamless blend.
5. Not Letting It Dry Properly
The mistake: Getting dressed too soon or sweating while your tan is developing
The fix:
Wait at least 10 minutes before dressing and avoid sweating or showering for 1–3 hours while your tan develops. Our formula is fast-drying and transfer-proof, but a little patience = perfection.
6. Forgetting Your Face
The mistake: Skipping your face or using body tan on it
The fix:
Your face needs a gentler, hydrating formula. Our Hyaluronic Acid Face Tan Serum gives a natural, non-comedogenic glow that won’t clog pores or dry out your skin.
7. Using the Wrong Formula for Your Skin
The mistake: Using any old tan without checking the undertone
The fix:
Look for an olive-based formula like Byremi’s Ultra Dark Mousse — it works with every skin tone to give a rich, golden finish without orange tones.
Final Glow Tip:
Invest in the right tools (mitts, brush, serum), prep your skin properly, and treat your tan like skincare — because it is. Glowy, flawless skin is just one better routine away.
Want to take the guesswork out of tanning?
Try The OG Glow Set — your full prep + glow routine in one bundle.