Shopping Guide: Which Self Tan or Solarium Product Is Right for You?

Shopping Guide: Which Self Tan or Solarium Product Is Right for You?

From a natural, subtle glow to an intense summer tan, self-tan and solarium products give you the ability to achieve the result you want — as long as you choose the one that suits your needs and skin type.

The main question: What do you need?

Shopping Guide: Which Self Tan or Solarium Product Is Right for You?

#1. Self Tan - for use without sun

Self tan products provide a tan without exposure to the sun or UV, through ingredients that give the skin a "tanned" appearance.

They are ideal for:

  • Beginners
  • Those who want a controlled result at home
  • Those who avoid sun exposure

#2. Solarium / UV products

Solarium products (accelerators, bronzers, tingle, etc.) enhance natural tanning during UV exposure.

They are ideal for:

  • Those who already use solarium or sunbathe
  • More experienced users

Choose according to your needs...

  • If you have sensitive skin, prefer products with gradual action (gradual), as this way you can "build" the color you desire and reduce the risk of irritation. A lotion or cream are suitable forms, so that the product is milder and provides hydration at the same time. Finally, a fragrance-free formula (fragrance-free) is preferable, as it reduces possible reactions.
Shopping Guide: Which Self Tan or Solarium Product Is Right for You?
  • If what you are looking for is a natural result, choose products with a tanning level of light, light/medium or medium, because these will adapt more easily to your skin tone. Also, gradual action products (gradual) allow you to control the intensity, as do drops, which are concentrated drops that can be mixed with a skincare product (e.g. moisturizer, serum, etc.) for a controlled result. Finally, products in lotion form will help you apply them more easily and avoid mistakes.

Shopping Guide: Which Self Tan or Solarium Product Is Right for You?
  • If you want a fast and intense result, choose products in the form of mousse or instant bronzer. They are suitable because they are quickly absorbed and provide immediate color. Also, choose dark shades, as they offer a more intense result from the first application; however, be careful because it is easier for streaks to appear if not applied properly.
Shopping Guide: Which Self Tan or Solarium Product Is Right for You?
  • For you who are an experienced solarium user, products with a warming effect (tingle) are suitable as they increase microcirculation, resulting in a more intense tan (not recommended for sensitive skin). Also, accelerator products enhance the natural tanning process and speed up the result.
Shopping Guide: Which Self Tan or Solarium Product Is Right for You?
  • If you want to correct or remove your tan, you can choose self tan removers, products that break down the color and remove it more quickly.

The form plays a big role

The same formula can have a completely different result depending on the form.

How to make the right choice for you:

  • Lotion / Cream: for easy application & natural result (ideal for beginners)
  • Mousse: for quick application and intense result
  • Mist / Spray: for easy application on hard-to-reach areas
  • Drops: for ultimate control of intensity (mix with cream/serum)
  • Serum: ideal for the face
  • Gel: for oily skin, absorbs easily
  • Oil: for a glowing result

Shopping Guide: Which Self Tan or Solarium Product Is Right for You?

DHA: What You Need to Know About It

DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) is the main ingredient in self-tanners that reacts with the surface of the skin and creates a “tan” without the sun.

Products with DHA provide color within a few hours, as DHA works on the upper layers of the skin and does not require UV or a solarium.

In practice...

  • Low DHA concentration = more natural, gradual result
  • High DHA concentration = more intense and faster result

Tip: For beginners, a lower DHA is recommended, while someone experienced can choose a stronger result.

Shopping Guide: Which Self Tan or Solarium Product Is Right for You?

BEFORE & AFTER: 2 key steps for the right result

If you want a uniform and long-lasting result, you should not skip these 2 key steps:

#1. Exfoliation

Exfoliation prepares the skin so that the self tan applies properly and evenly.

It is essential because:

  • It removes dead skin cells that cause unevenness
  • Smooths the skin’s surface for a more even application
  • Helps the product absorb properly and not “sit” in certain areas (elbows, knees, etc.)

Tip: Exfoliate 24 hours before application, pay special attention to "dry" areas such as elbows and knees, and prefer a scrub without heavy oils that might affect the result.

Body Scrub

Face Scrub

#2. Hydration

Hydration helps maintain your tan for longer and allows it to fade naturally.

It is important because:

  • It keeps the skin smooth so the color lasts longer
  • It prevents peeling that causes the tan to “break”
  • It helps the result fade evenly, without marks

Tip: Make sure to moisturize your skin daily after application. Prefer gentle, non-irritating formulas and avoid products that dry out the skin or may accelerate exfoliation.

Body Hydration

Facial Hydration

Extra tip for a better result:

For a more even tan without streaks, prefer to apply the product with an application mitt. It helps distribute the product better, avoids marks, and protects your hands from unwanted staining.

Common mistakes to avoid:

❌ Using a product that is too dark from the start

❌ Skin that has not been exfoliated

❌ Insufficient hydration after application

Final checks... 

  • If you prefer "cleaner" formulas, you can find products without parabens
  • If it is important to you that products are not tested on animals, choose the cruelty free ones, while if you want them to have no animal-derived ingredients, choose the vegan ones

With the right product choice, proper preparation, and correct aftercare, you can achieve a natural and even tan that lasts. Choose what suits your needs and enjoy the result with confidence.

Relevant Articles

The best sunscreens
Sunscreen Buying Guide: Find the right one for you!
Retinol: What Is It, How Does It Work on the Skin & Why Should You Add It to Your Routine?
Skinimalism: The new beauty trend that loves the simple and effective