Self-tanning products can be a great way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without the risks associated with UV exposure. We all know how harmful the sun can be for skin, both medically and aesthetically. Not only does UV exposure increase your risk for skin cancer, it also prematurely ages your beautiful skin. One out of five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. Those are odds we can lesson if we use preventative measures and healthy tanning practices such as sunless tanning.

The first sunless tanners were introduced in the 1960s and have grown increasingly popular over the decades. Popularity grew even higher in the 1980s, as people started discovering more about the link between UV exposure and skin cancer.

Individuals who want to minimize the risk of skin cancer while still enjoying bronzed, glowing skin, often turn to self-tanning products. However, one common issue that many users experience is the "orange" look that can occur when self-tanning products are not applied properly. Many may wonder, why does my-self tanner turn me orange? Glow by Skalla can answer that question for you, as well as provide you with self-tanning products that will not turn you orange.

There are several main reasons why self-tanner can turn a person orange. Let’s go over them.

1. Using too much product: Applying too much self-tanner can result in an uneven, "streaky" appearance that can make the skin look orange. This is due to an over application of the main ingredient in self tanner, DHA. Over applying self-tanner can cause an excessive buildup of DHA on the top layer of your skin resulting in an orange tone. To avoid this, it's important to use the appropriate amount of product for your skin type and to blend it well. Your skin can only evenly absorb thin layers of self-tanner at one time. If you want to achieve a darker tan, the best practice is to apply your self-tanner in thin, even layers over the course of a few days. For more in-depth instruction on how to apply self-tanner, you can watch our video where you'll find tips and tricks to help you achieve a beautiful, glowing tan that is never orange.

2. Not exfoliating before application: Dead skin cells on the surface of the skin can cause self-tanner to look uneven and orange. To avoid this, it's important to exfoliate the skin before applying self-tanner. Exfoliation is one of the most important steps in ensuring your tan looks natural and lasts as long as possible.

3. Not allowing the product to dry completely: If self-tanner is not allowed to dry completely before getting dressed or going to bed, it can rub off on clothing and sheets, resulting in an uneven, "orange" appearance. You need to allow your self-tanner approximately ten minutes to fully dry before dressing. When you do dress after applying self-tanner, it is best to wear loose-fitting clothing. Avoid any clothing that will rub against your skin and remove portions of your-self tanner.

4. Using a tanner with too much DHA: Some self-tanners are designed for certain skin tones, such as "light" or "medium." These tanners tend to have a higher concentration of DHA, the main ingredient in self tanner that turns your skin darker. If you use a self-tanner that is too dark for your skin tone, it can result in an "orange" look. That is why it is so important to invest in high-quality self-tanning products with the correct balance of DHA. At Glow by Skalla, we've spent years formulating self-tanning products with the perfect balance of ingredients.

Subtle tanning overtime is the best practice for the most natural results. If you're looking to achieve a darker tan, first try applying thin layers of self-tanner over the course of a few days to build your color. It is also recommended to do a patch test before applying all over the skin. It can be helpful to treat self-tanner the same way you would if you were choosing a shade of makeup. Test it out in one spot first, and see how well it complements your skin tone.

At Glow by Skalla, we have specially formulated all of our self-tanners using a violet undertone to complement a wide variety of skin types and avoid that pesky orange hue. Our Flawless Finish Bronzing Mousse is perfect for full body application that results in a beautiful, natural-looking summer glow. And when your facial complexion needs a little color boost, our Flawless Finish Bronzing Drops were designed especially for the delicate skin on your face and neck. Our drops can be mixed with your daily facial moisturizer or applied directly to your skin, to give you that healthy summer glow.

As an additional tip, always remember when you are applying self-tanner, the best way to prevent orange hands is to use a self-tanning mitt. Self-tanners will often absorb more quickly into dry, thick areas of skin such as your hands, knees, and elbows. Self-tanning mitts are the perfect solution to prevent over absorption. If you need to tan and you don't have access to your-self tanning mitt, then remember to wash your hands between applications. Apply the self-tanner in small sections, and wash your hands between each section. This will prevent the self-tanner from drying on your hands faster than you are able to wash it off. For hard-to-reach areas like your back, use a bronzing back band to achieve even application and streak free results.

The next time you're worried about your self-tanner turning you an unnatural-looking shade of orange, remember the simple steps we’ve covered. Use the appropriate amount of product, not too much. Be sure to exfoliate before applying self-tanner. Always allow your self-tanner to dry completely before dressing, and when you do dress, wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid unintended removal of the product. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, buy a high-quality self-tanner made from trusted ingredients with the right balance of DHA. If you follow these simple tips and tricks, you can have the tan of your dreams any time of year!