Contouring with self-tanner is a great way to enhance natural features and create a more sculpted look. Self-tanning products have come a long way in recent years, making it easier than ever to achieve a believable, sun-kissed glow that lasts for days. But the latest advancement in the self-tanning craze is a technique that’s catching all the attention.

If you haven’t heard of “tantouring” yet, you’ve come to the right place! Tantouring combines the words “tan” and “contouring,” and it’s the newest trend that celebrities and influencers are touting as a game changer. When you think self-tanning couldn’t get any better, this little gem of a beauty hack comes along! So how do you contour with self-tanner and join the tantouring craze? Here is a list of tips and tricks to make you a tantouring expert!

Step 1: Exfoliate

Before applying any self-tanning product, it's essential to exfoliate your skin properly. This helps to remove dead skin cells, ensuring an even, streak-free tan. Focus on areas prone to dryness, such as the knees, elbows, and ankles, and be gentle, as over-exfoliating can damage the skin.

Step 2: Moisturize

After exfoliating, it's important to moisturize your skin, especially in areas prone to dryness. This helps to hydrate the skin and create a smooth, even surface for the self-tanner to adhere to. A non-greasy moisturizer is ideal, as oily products can cause the self-tanner to slip and slide and not absorb well into the skin.

Step 3: Consider the best product for the desired results

The first step in applying your base is deciding which product to use. If you are contouring your body, we recommend Glow by Skalla’s Flawless Finish Bronzing Mousse. Our self-tanning mousse is perfectly formulated to nourish your body. With rich ingredients like organic coconut oil and a violet undertone base, our Flawless Finish Bronzing Mousse delivers the perfect golden tan with every application!

And if you are contouring your face, we recommend Glow by Skalla’s Flawless Finish Bronzing Drops. These drops have been specially formulated to blend with your moisturizer or, for a deeper tan, use directly on your face. With aloe vera leaf juice to promote skin healing and organic glycerin to create the ultimate flawless finish, these self-tanning facial drops will provide the same gorgeous glow you get from spending a weekend at the beach!

Step 4: Apply a self-tanner base

When applying the self-tanner, use a small amount. Your skin can only absorb a thin layer of self-tanner at one time. It is better to enhance color later with a second coat than to apply too much tanner at once. Using the appropriate amount of product results in a more natural look, and you’ll want to create an even, natural-looking base before applying a contouring layer.

Also, choosing the right self-tanner for your skin type and desired look is essential. If you're new to self-tanning, opt for a self-tanner with proven results and excellent customer feedback. At Glow by Skalla, our self-tanning products are backed by positive reviews and happy customers. Our natural formula and pure ingredients deliver a gorgeous, natural-looking tan while nourishing your skin for the ultimate long-term benefit.

Step 5: Consider Your Natural Contour Lines

When preparing to use self-tanner, take a moment to consider the natural contours of your face. This will help you determine where to apply the product to achieve the desired sculpting effect. The most common areas to add shadow are along the hairline, cheekbones, and jawline, but for a more defined look, you can also apply the self-tanner to your eyelids, lip line, and nose sides.

Step 6: Facial contouring

Now that you've applied the self-tanner and considered your natural contour lines, it's time to contour. The key to successful contouring is to create shadows where you want to add definition and highlights where you want to create the illusion of lift.

Start by using the darker shades of self-tanner to create shadows on the areas you want to slim and sculpt, such as the sides of the nose, cheekbones, and jawline. Next, apply the product in a "3" shape, starting at the temple, following the cheekbone down to the jawline, and then back up to the temple. Finally, blend thoroughly to avoid any harsh lines. The best way to blend is to use a contouring makeup brush. This will create a natural look that blends the skin tone for a sun-kissed effect.

Make sure to allow the self-tanner to dry before applying makeup. We recommend applying your contouring self-tanner at night, so it has time to develop fully before doing your makeup. It’s hard to blend color when the color has not developed. But this is not essential. You can also apply it in the morning as part of your makeup routine. You just have to make sure your tanner is dry before applying makeup.

Another contouring method is applying the self-tanner where the sun naturally darkens your skin. For example, the top of your forehead, the bridge of your nose, and your cheekbones are all areas that would naturally darken with sun exposure. You should consider the look you are trying to achieve and apply the self-tanner appropriately.

Step 5: Set and Maintain

Finally, if you choose to apply your self-tanner as part of your morning makeup routine, you can add additional definition by contouring with a translucent powder. Wait at least 20 minutes for the self-tanner to dry thoroughly, then apply a light dusting of powder, focusing on the areas you contoured.

To maintain your contoured tan, it's essential to keep your skin hydrated and exfoliate regularly. Use a mild exfoliating scrub a few times weekly to remove dead skin cells and ensure an even, long-lasting tan.

Contouring with self-tanner is a simple and effective way to enhance your natural features. Not to mention, it’s just fun! There are so many possibilities and different looks you can achieve. Like makeup, there are multiple contouring styles for different occasions, so have fun and experiment to find your best look!