How to Apply Fake Tan Like a Pro: Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Flawless Glow

 

There's nothing quite like the confidence that comes with a flawless sun-kissed glow. Whether you're getting ready for a holiday, a wedding, or simply want that healthy bronzed look all year round, learning how to apply fake tan correctly makes all the difference.

The good news? Achieving a streak-free finish isn't difficult—it just comes down to preparation, technique and using quality products.

At Naked Tan, we've helped thousands of Australians achieve a natural-looking glow for over 15 years. Follow this simple guide to enjoy salon-quality results from the comfort of your own home.

Why Choose Fake Tan?

More Australians are swapping hours in the sun for fake tan mousses or mists because it delivers beautiful colour without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays.

Benefits include:

• Natural-looking bronze without sun damage
• Even skin tone
• Quick and easy application
• Instant confidence boost
• Suitable all year round

Whether you're a tanning beginner or a seasoned pro, the right routine helps your glow last longer and fade evenly.

Step 1: Exfoliate Your Skin

One of the biggest fake tan tips is to exfoliate properly.

Dead skin cells can cause your tan to cling unevenly, resulting in patches or streaks.

Use the Naked Tan Body Cleanser before tanning to thoroughly cleanse the skin and remove oils, deodorant, perfume and product build-up.

Pay extra attention to:

• Knees
• Elbows
• Ankles
• Feet
• Hands

These areas naturally absorb more product, so smooth skin helps create an even finish.

Step 2: Moisturise Dry Areas

Hydrated skin creates the perfect canvas.

Before applying your tan, lightly moisturise dry areas using Crème de la Crème Moisturiser.

Focus on:

• Elbows
• Knees
• Ankles
• Hands
• Feet

This prevents these areas from developing a darker appearance than the rest of your body.

Step 3: Use a Tanning Mitt

A quality tanning mitt helps achieve a flawless application while protecting your hands from staining.

Apply your chosen Naked Tan mousse directly onto the mitt.

Choose the perfect shade:

• Medium Mousse for a natural glow
• Dark Mousse for a deeper bronze
• Ultra Dark Mousse for experienced tanners wanting maximum colour

Using a mitt also ensures your mousse fake tan blends seamlessly into the skin.

Step 4: Apply in Sections

One of the easiest ways to avoid streaks is to work slowly.

Apply fake tan in this order:

1. Legs
2. Thighs
3. Stomach
4. Back
5. Chest
6. Arms
7. Hands
8. Feet

Use long circular motions and blend thoroughly before moving to the next area.

Less product is always better—you can build colour gradually if needed.

Step 5: Blend Carefully Around Hands and Feet

Hands and feet often reveal whether a tan looks natural.

Use the leftover product on your mitt rather than applying extra mousse directly.

Blend around:

• Fingers
• Knuckles
• Wrists
• Toes
• Ankles

This creates a soft fade instead of harsh lines.

Step 6: Allow Your Tan to Develop

After application:

• Wear loose, dark clothing.
• Avoid sweating.
• Skip swimming or showering.
• Stay away from moisturisers until after your first rinse.

Allow your tan to develop according to the product instructions before rinsing.

Remember that your guide colour rinses away, while your actual tan continues developing over the next several hours.

Step 7: Moisturise Daily

Wondering how long does fake tan last?

Most quality tans last between 5–10 days depending on your skin type and aftercare.

Daily moisturising is one of the easiest ways to extend your glow.

Using Crème de la Crème Moisturiser keeps your skin hydrated and helps your tan fade naturally without patchiness.

Common Fake Tan Mistakes

Avoid these common tanning errors:

Skipping exfoliation

Preparation and an even canvas to work with is everything.

Applying too much product

Thin, even layers always look more natural.

Forgetting your hands and feet

These areas require less product than the rest of your body.

Wearing tight clothing immediately afterwards

Loose clothing prevents rubbing and uneven patches.

Moisturising only occasionally

Hydrated skin equals longer-lasting colour.

How to Get Fake Tan Without Streaks

If you're searching for fake tan without streaks, remember these golden rules:

• Exfoliate body first.
• Moisturise dry patches.
• Use a tanning mitt.
• Apply in circular motions.
• Blend thoroughly.
• Allow enough developing time.
• Moisturise every day afterwards.

Consistency is the secret to a flawless finish.

Why Australians Love Naked Tan

Finding the best fake tan Australia has to offer means choosing products that deliver reliable, natural-looking results every time.

Naked Tan products are loved because they:

• Produce natural olive-toned colour
• Dry quickly
• Apply evenly
• Fade naturally
• Suit a wide range of skin tones
• Are easy for beginners and professionals alike

Whether you're after a subtle glow or a rich bronzed finish, Naked Tan has a shade to suit every occasion.

Build the Perfect Self Tan Routine

Creating a consistent self tan routine helps maintain beautiful colour all year round.

A simple weekly routine looks like this:

Day 1: Exfoliate and cleanse using Body Cleanser before applying your chosen Naked Tan mousse.

Days 2–6: Moisturise daily with Crème de la Crème.

Day 7: Exfoliate mitt will gently remove any remaining colour before your next application.

This routine keeps your tan looking fresh without patchiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I shave before applying fake tan?

Yes. Shave or wax at least 24 hours before tanning to allow your pores to close.

How long should I leave fake tan on?

Always follow the instructions for your Naked Tan product, as development times vary.

Why does my fake tan go patchy?

Patchiness is usually caused by dry skin, skipping exfoliation or not moisturising daily after tanning.

Can I apply fake tan to my face?

Yes with a Face Mist. Apply a lighter amount carefully around the face, hairline and jawline for a natural finish.

How often should I reapply fake tan?

Most people achieve the best results by reapplying every 5–7 days, depending on how quickly their skin naturally exfoliates.

Get Your Best Glow Yet

Learning how to apply fake tan doesn't have to be complicated. With the right preparation, quality products and a simple aftercare routine, you can enjoy a natural-looking, streak-free glow whenever you like.

Whether you choose our Instant tan gloss finish, Gradual tan, Medium, Dark or Ultra Dark Mousse, pair it with the Naked Tan Body Cleanser and Crème de la Crème Moisturiser for the ultimate tanning routine.

Ready to glow? Explore the Naked Tan collection and discover how easy achieving a flawless bronze can be.