How to Use Tanning Wipes (towels)? & the Best Tanning Wipes

tan wipes before and after

If you have been on the market for self-tanning products you might have come across tanning wipes or as they are sometimes called tanning towels or even tanning towelettes.

But how do you use these tanning wipes? Below we will break down how to use tanning wipes and our favorite tanning wipes that we have used and why we liked them.

Explaining Tanning Wipes and How to Use Them

Tanning wipes offer a simple way to get a tanned look without having to spend a lot of time tanning in the sun or even at a tanning salon. These wipes are soaked with a tanning solution that can then be easily wiped and applied to the skin. Now let us explain exactly how it’s best to use these wipes.

Before using a tanning wipe firstly make sure your skin is clean and dry before using the wipes. Actually while its not required taking a shower before using the tanning wipes is a good idea because it cleans the skin and actually makes the skin more dry which allows your skin to better absorb the tanning solution. If you do decide to shower just make sure your skin is dried off first before using the tanning wipes.

When you are ready you can then remove a tanning wipe from the packaging and softly rub it on the areas of your skin that you want to tan.

It’s best to rub it in circular motions because this helps make sure coverage is as even as possible. The next piece of advice is to work in sections. So, for example start with one leg and only move to the next leg once you have fully completed the last section.

It’s also best to start at the bottom of your body and work up. It’s worth mentioning to pay closer attention to the ankles, elbows and knees because application they are more difficult, so you need to make sure that you cover these areas properly.

Once you have applied completely to the skin you should then allow some time for the lotion to dry. Usually this will take around 10 minutes give or take. Then you can put clothes on. But keep in mind it’s recommended to put on clothes that are loose because tighter fitting clothes may affect the tans development.

When buying tanning wipes its good to look for ones that have hydrating ingredients included. For example ingredients such as vitamin E and aloe vera are both great for hydrating and moisturizing the skin. Also, it’s best to avoid tanning wipes that include harsh ingredients such as parabens because they can be irritable to the skin.

Keep in mind that most tanning wipes will take time for the skin to develop and tan. Therefore, you should try to avoid touching your skin and also showering during this time. If you were to shower while the tan is still developing on the skin then the tan could end up being patchy or ruined.

Tanning wipes are usually an ideal choice if you need something portable to bring with you anywhere without the need for bulky big bottles full of tanning solution. Application with tanning wipes is also easy and effective and the results are just as you would expect from a quality self-tanner. Just make sure to choose good quality options when you do. On that note below are a few of our favorite tanning wipes on the market.

Best Self-Tanning Wipes

#1 L’Oreal Paris Tanning Towelettes

L’Oreal Paris Tanning Towelettes

These tanning towelettes from L’Oreal are the best self-tanning wipes. They create a beautiful looking tan without any concern for any orange tint or streaky appearance when using them.

Application with these wipes is easy and seamless. Keep in mind that they use high quality ingredients including the likes of vitamin E which is really effective at keeping your skin hydrated and moisturized.  

Keep in mind that the tan that is developed is a more medium shade so if you want a darker shade you may need to opt for another option.

#2 Tan Towel Self Tan Towelette

Tan Towel Self Tan Towelette

For some people this towelette from Tan Towel is a great option and is arguably the best option too. It’s not really a surprise that this is the company’s main product.

In terms of application this tan towel is really easy to use and applies to the skin seamlessly.

In terms of results, you can expect a medium tan that looks absolutely smooth and gorgeous. Quality of ingredients used is top notch and there hasn’t been any skimping on that front.

#3 Jergens Natural Glow Tanning Towelettes

Jergens Natural Glow Tanning Towelettes

The final option that we recommend is these towelettes from Jergens. The results with these tanning towels is great.

Application is quite easy and simple. One thing to mention here is to go gentle when applying around the ankles, elbows and so on. Therefore, to stop the build up of the tanning solution in these areas.

Similar to the other 2 choices these tanning wipes offer a medium glow to the skin that looks great and you don’t get any orange or red hues to the skin when using it.

Also, one thing worth mentioning about these is the great tropical smell and with no bad after smells which is great.

Scroll to Top