The Best Times to Use Self-Tanner

News flash: You don’t have to toss your self-tanner in a drawer once summer ends. While a faux tan is the perfect accessory for summer, there’s no rule that says you can’t rock a bronzed glow all year long. Self-tanner can be especially useful for big occasions when you want your skin to look its absolute best. So below, we’re sharing the seven best times use self-tanner, along with product recommendations and tips for application.

Use Self-Tanner…Before a Big Vacation

Let’s get the obvious out of the way. Anytime you’re planning to go on a vacay, it’s a prime opportunity to start working on your fake tan. Break out a bottle of self-tanner no matter the season or location or your trip.

Use Self-Tanner…Prior to Getting Married

Nothing pops against a stunning white wedding gown quite like the look of bronzed skin. A few days before your wedding, achieve the appearance of a sun-kissed glow courtesy of your favorite self-tanner.

Use Self-Tanner…When You’re a Wedding Guest

Your own wedding isn’t the only event that warrants a fake tan. If you’re in the bridal party or even just an attendee, try deepening the look of your skin tone by a shade or two for subtle warmth.

Use Self-Tanner…During the Holiday Season

The holidays tend to be the time of year you’ll be mingling the most, running in to just about everyone you know at one party or another. While you’re rocking your best party dress and making your most charming small talk, remind them all how well the look of a tan suits your skin.

Use Self-Tanner…for Your First Day

Whether it’s the start of a new semester or your first day on a new job, you’ll want to make a good first impression, right? Along with making time for a mandatory mani-pedi and getting your brows touched up, add self-tanning to your to-do list.

Use Self-Tanner…if You Have a Date or Anniversary Coming Up

If you have a hot date or anniversary on the horizon, pay your skin some attention. In addition to upping your moisturizing and exfoliating game for smoother-looking skin, add self-tanner into the mix.

Use Self-Tanner…Anytime!

When it comes to enjoying a fake tan, there really is no bad occasion. Anytime you want your skin to appear more bronzed, reach for self-tanner. You can look like you just returned from some serious R&R on the beach, any day, anytime of the year.

The Best Self-Tanners from L’Oréal Paris

Now that you know when to use self-tanner, how about what you need to use? Take your pick from L’Oréal’s best self-tanning options.

L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze™ Self-Tanning Serum: This self-tanning serum goes on streak-free, dries quickly, and can provide long-lasting color for your face and body.

How to use it: Cleanse and exfoliate skin, then apply an oil-free moisturizer to dry areas. Pump the serum into palms and apply evenly all over body. Use sparingly around ankles, knees, and elbows. Wash hands thoroughly after use and let skin dry completely before putting on makeup or clothes.

L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze™ Tinted Self-Tanning Lotion: This advanced skin-smoothing formula offers a perfect, streak-free tan. Transfer- and water-resistant, the self-tanner creates an instant bronze tint as your flawless-looking sunless tan develops.

How to use it: After exfoliating, smooth the tanning lotion evenly all over your body just as you would any lotion. Apply sparingly to your knees, elbows, and ankles. Massage with both hands until absorbed. Wash hands thoroughly after using.

L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze™ Towelettes for Body: These convenient, single-use wipes are ideal for travel or using at the beach. The unique self-tanning formula applies easily and dries quickly for a smooth-looking tan.

How to use it: Smooth the towelette evenly over skin, unfolding as needed. Use sparingly around knees, ankles, and elbows. Wash hands thoroughly after use.

Next up: Educate yourself on self-tanner hacks and learn the four self-tanner myths you should stop believing ASAP.