Natural Glow, Body Butters, Moisturizers & More

Achieving a flawless, sunless tan at home can feel like a challenge, especially when it comes to those hard-to-reach areas. Your back, shoulders, knees, and elbows often end up with uneven patches, streaks, or unnatural orange marks. But with the right technique and a few smart tanning tips, you can get a smooth, even tan from head to toe without needing a professional hand.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best self-tanner application methods for tricky spots. We’ll also recommend products that help lock in moisture and extend your tan’s life—like the Jergens Wet Skin Moisturizer, Argan Oil and the Jergens Cherry Almond Lotion Bursts. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned tanner, these strategies will give you a radiant, streak-free glow every time.

Prep Your Skin for Even Self-Tanner Application

Before you even open your self-tanner, proper skin preparation is essential. Exfoliate your entire body 24 hours before application, focusing on rough areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. Use a gentle scrub to remove dead skin cells that can cause patchiness. After exfoliating, apply a lightweight moisturizer to dry patches to prevent the tanner from clinging unevenly.

For the best results, shower and dry off completely. Avoid applying any heavy lotions or oils right before tanning, as they can create a barrier. Instead, use a hydrating product like the Jergens Wet Skin Moisturizer, Argan Oil after your tan has developed to keep skin soft and extend your glow. This post-tan moisturizer locks in moisture without interfering with the color.

• Exfoliate 24 hours before tanning for a smooth canvas.
• Moisturize dry areas like knees and elbows lightly before application.
• Shower and dry completely—no lotions or oils before tanning.

Master the Hard-to-Reach Areas: Back, Shoulders, and Neck

The back and shoulders are classic trouble spots. To apply self-tanner evenly here, use a long-handled applicator mitt or ask a friend for help. If you’re going solo, try this trick: apply a small amount of tanner to the mitt, then reach behind your back in a sweeping motion from the center outward. For shoulders, use a mirror to check for missed spots.

Your neck requires a light hand. Blend the tanner downward from your jawline to your collarbone using a damp sponge or your fingertips. Avoid applying too much product near your hairline, as it can look unnatural. For a seamless finish, mix a tiny bit of tanner with your daily body lotion—like the Jergens Cherry Almond Lotion Bursts—to create a gradual, buildable color that’s easy to control.

• Use a long-handled mitt for back and shoulder application.
• Blend neck tanner downward with a damp sponge for a natural look.
• Mix tanner with a lightweight lotion for gradual color on sensitive areas.

Tackle Knees, Elbows, and Ankles Without Streaks

Knees, elbows, and ankles have thicker, drier skin that absorbs more color, leading to dark patches. To avoid this, apply a thin layer of unscented lotion to these areas before tanning. This creates a barrier that prevents over-absorption. Use a light hand when applying tanner here—less is more.

After applying, blend outward in circular motions. For knees, bend your leg slightly to stretch the skin, then apply in a single direction. For ankles, use a small amount of product and blend upward toward your calf. Once your tan is fully developed, maintain your glow with a nourishing moisturizer like the Jergens Wet Skin Moisturizer, Argan Oil to keep skin hydrated and prevent flaking.

• Pre-moisturize knees, elbows, and ankles with a light lotion.
• Apply tanner in a single direction, using a light hand.
• Bend knees and elbows during application to avoid crease buildup.

Extend Your Tan with Proper Post-Tan Care

Once your self-tanner has developed (usually after 6-8 hours), rinse off any excess with lukewarm water. Pat dry gently—don’t rub. To prolong your tan, moisturize daily with a hydrating body lotion. The Jergens Cherry Almond Lotion Bursts are perfect for this: they provide lightweight hydration with a subtle shimmer that enhances your glow.

Avoid exfoliating for at least a week, and steer clear of hot showers and chlorinated pools. Reapply self-tanner every 5-7 days to maintain your color. For a quick touch-up on fading spots, use a gradual tanning lotion mixed with your regular moisturizer. This keeps your tan even without starting from scratch.

• Moisturize daily with a hydrating lotion to prevent peeling.
• Avoid exfoliating and hot water to extend your tan’s life.
• Use gradual tanning products for easy touch-ups between full applications.

With these expert tanning tips, you can say goodbye to uneven patches and hello to a flawless, sunless tan. Start with proper prep, master the tricky spots, and keep your skin hydrated with products like the Jergens Wet Skin Moisturizer, Argan Oil and the Jergens Cherry Almond Lotion Bursts. Ready to glow? Explore our collection of tanning and moisturizing products to perfect your routine today.