How to Use Fake Tan in Winter: Glow-Getting Tips for Chilly Days
Last Updated on April 12, 2025 by Amy
Winter might be all about cosy jumpers and hot drinks, but that doesn’t mean your summer glow has to disappear. If you’re craving that sun-kissed look even in the chilliest months, fake tan can be your best friend. With the right prep and products, you can keep your skin glowing—even when the sun’s on holiday.
Reading this in summer? You’ll still find plenty of helpful tips for achieving your best glow.
Why Use Fake Tan in Winter?
Of course, no one needs a tan to feel good. But if you’re here, you’re probably keen to keep that golden glow going all year round. Here’s why fake tan might be just what you need in the darker months:
- Mood Booster: A glowing tan can lift your spirits and boost confidence—especially during gloomy winter days.
- No UV Exposure: Get that bronzed look without sun damage or the risk of premature ageing.
- Hydration Boost: Many modern self-tanners are packed with moisturising ingredients, perfect for combatting dry winter skin.
- Even Skin Tone: A bit of bronze can help blur imperfections and even give the illusion of a more toned figure. Who doesn’t want that?!
Types of Self-Tanners: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing the right product makes all the difference—especially in winter when skin tends to be drier and more sensitive.
Quick Guide to Self-Tanners:
- Mousses & Foams: Fast-drying and ideal for oily skin or anyone in a rush. A winter favourite if you don’t want to hang around half-dressed in the cold.
- Lotions: Hydrating and forgiving—great for dry skin and beginners.
- Oils: Deliver a radiant, sheer finish while nourishing your skin.
- Sprays: Perfect for hard-to-reach areas and quick top-ups.
- Gradual Tanners: Ideal for a buildable, low-maintenance glow. Great for daily use.
Pro Tip:
Pick a formula that matches your skin type. If your skin’s dry from central heating and cold air, go for a lotion or oil. Oily skin? A lightweight mousse might work best.
Prepping Your Skin: The Key to a Flawless Tan
Prepping your skin properly is essential—especially in winter. Follow these steps to avoid streaks and achieve a smooth, even finish.
The Night Before
- Exfoliate Gently
Use a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt to slough away dead skin cells, especially on rough areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. Do this 24 hours before tanning to give your skin time to calm down. - Moisturise Strategically
Winter skin is usually thirsty—but avoid slathering on heavy cream just before tanning. Instead:- Moisturise the night before all over.
- On tanning day, apply a light moisturiser only to dry spots (hands, feet, elbows, knees) to prevent the tan from grabbing unevenly.
Check out my body skincare post for a more detailed routine!
How to Apply Fake Tan in Winter: Step-by-Step
Getting it right is all in the technique! Here’s how to apply fake tan like a pro, even when it’s freezing outside.
General Application Tips
- Timing is Everything: Apply in the evening so it can develop overnight—no need to rush, sweat, or shower.
- Use a Mitt: Ensures even coverage and protects your hands from staining.
- Start from the Bottom: Work upwards in circular motions.
- Go Easy on Dry Areas: Use less product on knees, ankles, elbows, and hands.
- Layer for Depth: Let the first coat dry completely before applying a second if you want a deeper tan.
- Let it Set: Wait at least 20 minutes before dressing. Choose loose, dark clothing to avoid smudges—yes, even if you’re freezing!
How to Tan Your Face in Winter
Your face needs special attention. Here’s how to tan it without risking clogged pores or streaky results:
- Use a facial-specific tanner—lighter in texture and non-comedogenic.
- Moisturise first, especially around your brows and hairline.
- Blend thoroughly into your neck, jawline, and ears—pale ears are a giveaway!
- For a subtle glow, mix tanning drops with your regular moisturiser.
How to Tan Tricky Areas (Hands, Feet, Knees)
These are the areas most likely to betray your fake tan. Here’s how to get them right:
- Apply moisturiser to knuckles, wrists, between fingers, ankles, and knees before tanning.
- Focus tanner only on the tops of your hands and feet.
- Use a kabuki brush to blend for a flawless finish.
- Wipe excess from palms, nails, and between fingers/toes with a baby wipe.
Maintaining Your Tan: Keep That Glow Going
So you’ve nailed the application—now how do you make it last?
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
- Moisturise daily to stop your tan from flaking.
- Try a moisturising tanning oil to top up your colour and keep skin nourished.
2. Be Gentle in the Shower
- Avoid hot showers—they can strip your tan faster.
- Pat skin dry instead of rubbing.
- Shave with a clean razor to prevent uneven fading.
3. Do Regular Touch-Ups
- A tanning mist is ideal for quick top-ups on your face, chest, or arms.
- Use gradual tanners every few days to maintain your colour.
Troubleshooting Common Tanning Issues
- Clogged Pores?
Cleanse well before application. Follow with toner to tighten pores, especially if you’re applying to your face. - Streaks or Patches?
Use an exfoliating mitt to gently buff and even out the area. Follow up with a gradual tanner to blend.
Is Fake Tan Safe During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?
🤰 Pregnancy
According to the NHS, self-tanning lotions are generally considered safe during pregnancy. Avoid spray tans due to the risk of inhaling the product. Your skin may be more sensitive, so patch test first.
📝 Personal note: I used fake tan through both my pregnancies with no issues—but always check with your healthcare provider.
🤱 Breastfeeding
Avoid applying tan to your chest or areas that baby comes into contact with.
Quick tip: Try He-Shi Rapid 1 Hour Liquid Tan—it develops quickly and can be rinsed off in an hour.
How to Balance Facial Tanner with Your Winter Skincare Routine
If you’re like me and not giving up your retinol or acid toners any time soon, here’s how to maintain your glow without ruining your tan:
- Mix tanning drops into your night cream 2–3 times per week.
- Use a tanning mist as the final step in your routine, after serums and moisturisers.
💬 Pro tip: Don’t forget your ears and neck!
Ready to glow? Share your favourite winter tanning tips or let me know if this guide helped in the comments below! Check out this post for my favourite fake tan products!
