Different Ways to Apply Fake Tan (It’s Not Just About the Mitt)

When most people think about applying fake tan, they automatically reach for a tanning mitt. And don’t get me wrong — mitts are popular for a reason.

But they’re not the only way to apply tan… and depending on the area, your experience level, or the finish you want, they might not even be the best option.

So if you’ve ever:

• Struggled with streaks

• Ended up with darker hands or wrists

• Felt like your tan just wasn’t blending right

This one’s for you.

Let’s talk about the different ways to apply fake tan — mitts, brushes, gloves, and when each one actually makes sense.

The Classic: Tanning Mitt

Let’s start with the obvious one.

A tanning mitt is the most common way to apply fake tan, and for good reason. It’s easy, beginner-friendly, and helps distribute product evenly across larger areas of the body.

Why people love mitts:

• Great for arms, legs, and torso

• Helps avoid immediate palm staining

• Easy to control pressure

• Perfect for mousse formulas

Where mitts can fall short:

• Harder to blend around ankles, wrists, hands, and feet

• Can absorb more product than you realise

• Not always precise enough for detailed areas

Mitts are a great all-rounder — but they’re not always the hero for tricky spots.

The Underrated Hero: Tanning Brush

If you want a smoother, more airbrushed finish, a tanning brush is a game changer.

Brushes are especially good for blending, which is where most tan disasters happen.

Best areas to use a brush:

• Hands and feet

• Ankles and wrists

• Elbows and knees

• Around the neck and décolletage

Why brushes work so well:

• They diffuse product instead of dragging it

• Give you more control with less product

• Help soften edges for a natural finish

A lot of experienced tanners (and pros) use a mitt for the main body, then go in with a brush to blend and perfect. Once you try this combo, it’s hard to go back.

The Controversial One: Gloves

Okay… let’s address it 😅
Yes, some people apply tan using gloves — and yes, it can actually work.

This method is usually done with disposable gloves, not thick cleaning gloves (please don’t).

Why gloves can work:

• Zero product absorption

• Maximum control

• Great for fast application

The downsides:

• Higher risk of streaks if you’re heavy-handed

• Easier to over-apply

• Palms can still stain if you’re not careful

Gloves are best for:

• Experienced tanners

• Quick applications

• People who already know how their tan develops

If you’re a beginner, this probably isn’t your starting point — but it’s not illegal either 😏

Mixing Tools = Better Results

Here’s the secret most people don’t talk about:
you don’t have to choose just one method.

In fact, the best fake tans usually come from mixing tools.

A great combo looks like this:

• Mitt for legs, arms, and body

• Brush for hands, feet, ankles, wrists, elbows, and knees

• Light blending with a clean brush to soften lines

This approach gives you coverage and control — which is what creates that natural, professional-looking finish.

What About Hands & Feet?

Hands and feet are where most tans get exposed, so they need extra care.

No matter what tool you use:

• Use less product

• Blend thoroughly

• Always soften edges

A brush is hands-down the safest option here, but even if you’re using a mitt or gloves, finishing with a brush can save you from dark knuckles and patchy toes.

There’s No “Right” Way — Only What Works for You

Fake tanning isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Your ideal method depends on:

• Your tan formula (mousse, lotion, gradual, instant)

• Your experience level

• The areas you’re tanning

• How natural you want the finish to look

Some people swear by mitts.
Some love brushes.
Some break the rules and use gloves.

The best method is the one that gives you the result you feel confident in.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve only ever used a mitt, consider this your sign to experiment.

Adding a brush to your routine — or switching tools depending on the area — can completely change how your tan looks and wears.

Better blending = better results.
Better results = more confidence.

And that’s the whole point of tanning, right?