The appeal of tanned skin has been around for a very long time. Getting a little extra color used to require lathering yourself in oil and laying in the sun, but there are now many alternatives — including self-tanning lotions, body makeup and mousses. For me, using self-tanner is all about giving myself a little confidence boost and attaining some glow in a safe way. But finding products that work well and don’t break the bank can be a difficult feat.
So, when I first heard about self-tanning brand, Bali Body, I was very intrigued. Offering everything from body oil and bronzing lotions to self-tanning mousse, the Australia-based brand fulfills all of your self-tanning needs. (Not to mention, everything is 100% vegan and cruelty free!)
Bali Body’s most essential products come in a Deluxe Glow Bundle that includes Self-Tanning Mousse, Face Tan Water, Self-Tan Remover, an Exfoliating Mitt and a Luxe Tanning Mitt. Theoretically, this is all you need to attain a perfect tan!
I put the Deluxe Glow Bundle to the test, and here’s what happened.
Exfoliating Mitt
The first and most important step to applying self-tanner is exfoliation. So, the first thing you need from the bundle is Bali Body’s Exfoliating Mitt. To prep the skin for tanning, all you have to do is use the mitt with your favorite body wash or exfoliator and gently massage your skin in circular motions.
This exfoliating mitt is hands down the best one I’ve used (and I’ve tried a lot). Not only does it help remove dead skin cells, but it leaves your skin feeling softer and cleaner than ever. Not to mention, it’s a necessary tool to use when removing the tan later. After using the exfoliating mitt (and thoroughly moisturizing my skin) for a couple days, I moved onto the self-tanning.
Face Tan Water
Bali Body’s Face Tan Water produces gradual color, giving you a more natural glow to match the rest of your skin. All you have to do is spray a little on a cotton pad and apply like a toner. According to Bali Body, you want to use enough product to see a thin layer on your face, and for best results, they recommended that you apply it 2-3 times per week.
Following this technique in conjunction with the tanning mousse, I did notice an added glow to my complexion, and the color perfectly complimented the rest of my skin. Not to mention, on days when I wore foundation, I noticed that I had a nice base of color to compliment my makeup.
Self Tanning Mousse
To ensure the best results, Bali Body recommends moisturizing any dry areas, including knees, elbows and feet, prior to application, along with using a tanning mitt. The brand’s own Luxe Tanning Mitt not only promotes a smooth and even application, but it keeps your hands stain-free as well. Plus, it’s extremely soft and very easy to use. All you have to do is apply the mousse directly to the mitt and spread it onto your skin in long, sweeping motions.
Before fully applying the Self Tanning Mousse, I did a small patch test on my wrist to ensure that it’s safe for my skin. During the actual application of the tanner, Bali Body says to start at your ankles and work your way up the rest of your body before using any excess product on your hands and feet. I followed this technique, and it seemed to work very well! I was left with an even color, and all areas were covered.
While you can wash your skin one hour after application, Bali Body recommends waiting 4-8 hours for a longer-lasting tan. And for an even deeper color, they recommend reapplying the tanner after 30 minutes. I personally waited about six hours before washing, and I was not disappointed! I felt like I’d just finished a nice beach vacation.
After about 2 weeks of having the tanner on, it started to fade away, leaving my skin a little blotchy. So, I moved on to trying out Bali Body’s Self Tan Remover.
Self Tan Remover
Paired with the Exfoliating Mitt, the Self Tan Remover works wonders. Like the tanner itself, the remover is also a mousse. Before fully applying the product, I again did a patch test on my wrist to make sure there would be no reaction. I was all good to go, so next was the application. All you have to do is apply the remover to dry skin with your hands and let it sit for at least five minutes (I went a little longer).
After the product dried, I showered with warm water and used the exfoliating mitt to wipe away the self-tan. (For more stubborn areas, Bali Body recommends using the mitt in circular motions to fully remove.) And voila! My skin was again prepped for another tanner application.
Needless to say, I will definitely be continuing to use Bali Body for all my self-tanning needs. Each product works amazingly, and I’m so excited that I found a brand that I love!
Click here to purchase the Deluxe Glow Bundle. And be sure to follow Bali Body on Instagram.
Have you ever tried Bali Body? Share your experience with us below!
