How to Use Self-Tan Drops for a Natural Glow

By Sun Tanning Store | Published: 2026-10-17

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to apply self-tan drops on your face for a streak-free, natural-looking glow. Step-by-step instructions, common mistakes, and product tips included.

Quick answer

Mix a few drops of self-tanning serum into your daily moisturizer and apply evenly to clean, exfoliated skin. Start with 2–3 drops for a light glow and build up gradually. Always wash your hands immediately after application to avoid stained palms.

Why Self-Tan Drops Are a Game-Changer for Face Tanning

Self-tan drops let you control the depth of your tan by adjusting the number of drops you mix with your moisturizer. Unlike traditional tanning beds or sprays, they give you a subtle, buildable color-3-3d178a52c5b46995c6ff29a6-1122089">color that looks like your skin but better. They're also gentle enough for daily use and won't clog pores if you choose a non-comedogenic formula.

What You'll Need Before You Start

Gather a clean face, a gentle exfoliator, your regular moisturizer, and a bottle of self-tan drops. If your tanning bed or sunless tanning equipment came with a manual, keep it handy for reference on recommended products. For example, the Sonnen Braune Klassik Series 735 Tanning Bed Manual includes tips on maintaining even color, which applies to self-tan drops as well.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply Self-Tan Drops

Prep Your Skin: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and exfoliate to remove dead skin cells. Focus on dry areas like the nose and forehead. Pat dry completely. Common mistake: applying drops on damp skin can cause uneven color. Wait until your face is fully dry.
Mix Drops with Moisturizer: Dispense your usual amount of moisturizer into your palm. Add 2–3 drops of self-tanning serum and mix with your fingertip. For a deeper tan, increase to 4–5 drops next time. Checkpoint: always start with fewer drops. You can add more later, but you can't remove excess color easily.
Apply Evenly to Face and Neck: Use your fingertips to spread the mixture in upward, circular motions. Blend down your jawline and onto your neck to avoid a harsh line. Don't forget your ears and hairline. Common mistake: skipping the neck and ears creates a noticeable tan line. Use a damp cloth to soften edges if needed.
Wash Hands Immediately: Right after applying, wash your hands with soap and warm water. Pay attention to between fingers and under nails. Checkpoint: if you wait even 30 seconds, the drops can stain your palms orange. Use a nail brush if stains appear.
Let It Develop and Maintain: Allow the tan to develop for at least 4–6 hours before showering. Avoid sweating or getting your face wet during this time. Reapply every 2–3 days to maintain your glow. Common mistake: applying too frequently can lead to patchy buildup. Stick to a consistent schedule and exfoliate before each application.

Product Facts

Sonnen Braune Klassik Series 735 Tanning Bed Manual: Ordering this product will allow you to download a PDF file containing a Sonnen Braune Klassik Series 735 Tanning Bed Manual. This is a digital product and the PDF is not eligible for return, exchange or refund once you submit the order. Please make sure you are selecting the correct manual before ordering. If you own a Sonnen Braune Klassik Series 735 tanning bed, this manual helps you understand how to maintain your equipment for consistent results, which complements your self-tan routine.