The ultimate guide to the best sunless tan all year round

While escaping to tropical destinations is one way to keep your tan, it's not always the most practical or affordable option. Enter self-tanning – a convenient and safe alternative to achieve a gorgeous, bronzed look without the need for sun exposure.

Although there’s a wide range of reliable self-tanning products (serum drops, mousses, lotions, and mists), making it easier than ever to achieve a natural-looking glow, creating a flawless, long-lasting self-tan still requires some know-how. Bear with us, as we lay out the blueprint for building a streak-free, long-lasting, natural-looking, sun-less tan routine.

Step 1: Prep

Preparation is the foundation of a perfect self-tan. To ensure even, streak-free results, start prepping your skin 1-2 days before you plan to apply the self-tanner.

- Exfoliate: Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt to remove dead skin cells and create a smooth canvas for the self-tanner. We recommend the Buffing Bar, as its evenly compressed microcrystals guarantee consistent exfoliation on any area of the body.

- Shave: Remove unwanted hair to prevent self-tanner from settling in pores and creating a spotty appearance. For a closer shave, use the Comfort Cleanse as a shaving lubricant.

- Moisturize: Keep your skin hydrated by moisturizing daily (or even multiple times a day) to ensure a smooth, plump surface for the self-tanner.

Step 2: Application

When you're ready to apply the self-tanner, make sure any previously applied moisturizer has been fully absorbed and your skin is dry to the touch. For extra-dry areas prone to clinging (such as ankles, knees, knuckles, and elbows), prime with an additional layer of moisturizer.

If using self-tanning drops, you can mix them with the Speed Soak for easy spreading and quick absorption.

Step 3: Post-care

To maintain your newly achieved glow, consistently moisturize to keep your skin hydrated and your tan looking vibrant. However, avoid exfoliating or using products containing AHAs, BHAs, or enzymes, as these can cause your tan to fade unevenly.

When you're ready to start fresh, use the Buffing Bar to gently remove the remaining self-tanner.

Now that you have this outline handy in your back pocket, follow along for further guidance on how the Soft Services product range should and shouldn’t be used during the pursuite of your ultimate faux tan.