How to Apply Self-Tanner on Arms

Work in sections from wrist to shoulder with circular motions, blending carefully at joints and using minimal product on elbows.

The biggest mistake is rushing the blend at your wrists and elbows—these areas will always look obvious if you don't take the extra thirty seconds to soften them properly.

1. Prep the surface. Exfoliate arms 24 hours before application, focusing on elbows and wrists where skin is thicker. Shave or wax at least 24 hours prior to avoid irritation.
2. Create clean lines. Apply a thin layer of barrier cream or petroleum jelly to wrists, elbows, and the backs of hands. This prevents the tanner from settling into creases and creating harsh lines.
3. Work in sections. Start at your wrist and work upward in 6-inch sections. Use circular motions with a tanning mitt, applying product evenly before moving to the next section.
4. Blend the joints. Use whatever product remains on your mitt to lightly sweep over elbows and wrists. The goal is subtle color transition, not full coverage on these areas.
5. Finish the shoulders. Blend up to your shoulder line and across to meet your back coverage. Use long, sweeping motions to avoid streaking where your arm meets your torso.