Expert Advice: Choosing the right self-tan for your clients’ skin types

There is now a great deal of tans on the market and when clients come to your salon, it's important you have a variety of tanning options available to suit all skin types so that you are able to recommend the best type of tan to them. So which tans are best for what skin types?

Tans for dry skin

Gradual tanning moisturisers and lotions are the perfect choice for clients with dry skin, due to them generally being more moisturising. Tanning waters are also a good alternative choice; due to having a combination of nourishing ingredients and vitamins these are very hydrating on the skin and great for drier skin types. 

As both gradual tanning moisturisers and waters are more lightweight, it allows them to be a lot easier to apply on dry skin and the product can be built up on the skin over a number of days to achieve the client's desired colour. 

Top tanning pick: That'so Gradual Tanning Moisturiser.

Tans for oilier skin types

For clients with oilier skin types or acne-prone skin, advise that they steer clear of tans that are oil based, and instead, opt for tans with natural ingredients that will work to soothe the skin. 

Tans that include ingredients like Aloe Vera are particularly effective, which help to sooth and relieve the skin, whilst providing it with softness and brightness. 

Top tanning pick: That'so Nature Tan in shades Intense Bronze or Light Bronze or Gradual Tanning Moisturiser.

Tans suitable for all skin types  

Fake tan mousses and spray tans are generally a fantastic tanning choice for everyone, which allow for immediate colour results. However, it's important to have tans available in the salon that have active ingredients and that will blend onto client's skin seamlessly and not leave it dry and patchy. 

With all types of tan, it's also important to ensure you inform clients to exfoliate prior to using the tan to create a smooth base, allowing the tan to look its best and be long-lasting. 

Top tanning pick: Nature Tan in shades Intense Bronze or Light Bronze or Special Edition On-The-Go Dark Hemp.

Tans by skin tone

When it comes to skin tones, for pale skin it's best to recommend a tan that looks more natural in colour and that won't look streaky against the client's skin. Gradual Tans are a great for those with pale skin tones, as well as instant tans that are lighter in colour. 

Top tanning pick: Gradual Tanning Moisturiser or Nature Tan Light Bronze.

Those with olive and darker skin tones can be bolder with their tanning and opt for darker shades of tan to enhance their skin tone. However, with darker tans it's key to ensure you have a product available that has highly moisturising ingredients and that won't be drying on client's skin. 

Top tanning pick: Special Edition On-The-Go Dark Hemp or Nature Tan Intense Bronze.

Nadia Rafi is Commercial Director at Feel Good Promotions, exclusive distributor of luxury beauty brands into the UK market including That'so and  Yumi Brows and Lashes.