How To Use a Facial Tanner on Mature Skin: The Secret to a Youthful Glow

by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist @ ABZ

As we age, using facial tanners can get tricky because our skin changes, and things like age spots, wrinkles, and thinner skin make application more challenging.

But who doesn't love a sun-kissed glowing face?

woman applying a self-facial tanner to her sun-kissed face.

Did you know that 90% of women feel more confident with a bronzed complexion? The key is to avoid those common pitfalls that make wrinkles, or brown spots look darker and figure out how to fit tanners into a skincare routine that includes retinols or exfoliants.

Wouldn't it be great to use a face tanner that fits easily into your routine and leaves mature skin looking healthy and glowing?

In this guide, we’ll dive into how to choose the best one for aging skin, how to apply them without exaggerating fine lines or spots, and how to fit them into your skincare routine seamlessly.

Let’s glow!

What are face tanners anyway?

So, what are face tanners? They’re specialized skincare products that give your face a natural, sun-kissed glow—without the nasty UV rays.

Unlike body tanners, facial self-tanners are made for the delicate skin on your face, neck, and décolletage. They’ve evolved from simple bronzers to powerful anti-aging treatments.

I’ve used face tanners since my 20s, but I had to stop as I got older because they highlighted age spots and wrinkles, I never noticed before!

The good news? Today’s sunless tanning products are game-changers!

What sets them apart for mature skin are the powerful anti-aging ingredients. Look for hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid, brightening vitamins C and E, and collagen-boosting peptides.

Plus, they have lower levels of DHA (dihydroxyacetone) for a more subtle, natural tan. No need to worry about clogged pores—these lighter, non-comedogenic formulas let your skin breathe while giving you that gorgeous glow!

When applied correctly, these tanning lotions improve skin texture, minimize fine lines and wrinkles, and create a more youthful, radiant complexion.

Types of face tanners

A drugstore isle filled with different types of self-tanning facial products like sprays, creams, mist, and drops.

When selecting tanning products for mature skin, look for ones that offer hydration and anti-aging benefits to support a gradual, even tan. Here are the best options:

Tanning Creams

These products apply like a moisturizer, offering hydration and a natural glow. Choose formulas rich in skincare ingredients to enhance texture and maintain moisture.

Self-Tanning Drops

Customize your color intensity by mixing these drops with your moisturizer. Opt for drops that include hydrating and anti-aging ingredients.

Tanning Mists

Tanning mists can be sprayed directly across the face and neck. Choose mists formulated with moisturizing and anti-aging components to prevent dryness.

Tanning Water

Similar to mists, tanning water hydrates and provides a subtle buildable tan. Spraying onto a cotton pad and sweeping it across your face, ensuring even coverage. Look for moisturizing and anti-aging formulas to keep your skin healthy.

Note: While different products have varying usage directions, look for those that allow you to apply them over or with moisturizers. Avoid formulas that don't, as applying tanner on dry mature skin can highlight brown spots and wrinkles.

The anti-aging magic of face tanners

A woman smiling as she enjoys her glowing skin after applying anti-aging self-tanner to her face.

Facial tanners are a fantastic secret for achieving youthful, radiant skin. Let’s explore some of the anti-aging beauty benefits.

Instant Benefits: Glow and Even Skin Tone

Within hours you'll get glowing, even skin tone. Thet provide an instant boost to your skin tone while evening out your complexion. They effectively conceal imperfections.

Long-Term: Anti-Aging Effects

Unlike basic skin bronzers of the past, today’s advanced products are formulated with powerful ingredients that genuinely enhance skin texture and tone. Regular use can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.

With these sunless tanning lotions, you’re not just getting a beautiful glow; you’re also nourishing your skin with anti-aging benefits with every application.

Step-by-Step Guide: Tips for mature skin

Prep Your Skin: 

Exfoliate: Gentle exfoliation before applying self-tanner will create a smooth surface. Try wiping your face with a cotton pad soaked in a lactic or glycolic acid toner. Or, opt for a simple sugar face scrub.

Moisturize: This helps create a smooth base, ensuring even application and preventing dryness or patchiness. Don't forget key areas like your above eyebrows, crow's feet, nose, and lips.

Tips & solutions for common issues

Uneven Tanning or Patchiness:

Apply tanner evenly by using your fingertips to massage well in circular motions. Don't forget to blend across to ear lobes and down your neck and onto your décolletage.

Wrinkles and Folds:

If wrinkles or folds tend to darken more than the rest of your face, try adding a small amount of light oil (like almond oil) to these areas before tanning. This can help prevent the tanner from settling into those lines.

Treat Dark Spots:

Brown spots can darken if the tanner clings to them. To prevent this, immediately after applying the tanner, use a Q-tip dipped in micellar water to gently remove excess product from the brown spot areas while the tanner is still damp.

Muddy or Dirty Looking Skin:

If your face looks muddy or if brown spots and wrinkles are visible after the color has developed, lightly buff all over with a soft, dry or damp cloth, paying extra attention to brown spots, folds, and wrinkles. Next time, use less product.

Note:  These tips work! I have brown spots that are only noticeable when I use a face tanner. I dab a Micellar-soaked Q-tip on those areas, and once the tan has developed, I lightly buff my entire face with a soft cloth. This not only eliminates the dark spots but also blends the tan, leaving me with a beautiful, natural glow—no dirty or muddy look! 😉

How to use self-tanner in your skincare routine

Self-Tanning Simplified

Using a facial tanner with anti-aging products like retinols, exfoliant peelss, or scrubs and masks doesn't have to be complicated. While exfoliants slough off dead skin for a polished canvas, they can cause your tan to fade faster.

Striking the right balance in your routine is essential. Here’s how to make face tanners work without losing your glow.

If the Tanner Can Be Applied Over Moisturizers (Highly Recommended):

Apply it twice a week, at the start and end of the week. Skip exfoliation on those days to allow for full color development. Apply it over your regular skincare routine, following the product's instructions.

If the Tanner Requires Clean Dry Skin (Not Recommended):

Same as above, avoid strong exfoliants or active treatments (like retinols) on those days. Ensure your skin is clean and dry before application, then let it absorb before applying your serums, moisturizer and makeup. Following the product's instructions.

Bottom Line:

It's simple. Just apply your tanner twice a week and avoid exfoliating on the same day to prevent patchiness and ensure even development.

By spacing out active treatments and adjusting your exfoliation schedule, you can maintain radiant skin without compromising your tan.

Finally: Choosing the right face tanner for mature skin

When selecting a face tanner for mature skin, consider these key factors to ensure a natural, flattering glow:

Gradual Build: Consider gradual tanners that allow you to build color over time. This gives you more control over the intensity of your tan and helps avoid darkening of brown spots or fine lines.

Hydrating Formulas: Choose tanners that are enriched with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or natural oils—or those that can be mixed with your favorite moisturizer. These formulas keep mature skin hydrated, minimizing the appearance of lines and spots while promoting a more even, natural-looking tan.

Color Selection: Opt for a tanner that are only 1 or 2 shades darker than your skin's natural. A lighter shade can be more forgiving, giving you a sun-kissed look without overwhelming your complexion.

Lightweight Texture: Choose a lightweight, non-greasy formula that won’t feel heavy or clog your pores. Gel or serum-based tanners often absorb quickly and provide a smoother finish.

Anti-Aging Benefits: Many facial self-tanners come with added skin care benefits, such as antioxidants or firming agents. These can help improve the appearance of fine lines while providing that desired glow.

By focusing on these factors, you can find a face tanner that enhances your complexion while addressing the unique needs of mature skin.

You can find a list of different types of facial tanners and their reviews here.

FAQ: Face Tanner for Mature Skin

Question: I have a couple of dark spots on my face and self-tanners make them darker, what can I do?

Answer: If you’re dealing with dark spots after using self-tanner, don’t worry; there’s an easy fix. Age spots can be dark (hyperpigmentation), and a self-tanning cream can sometimes make these spots look more pronounced. To tackle them, try using a gentle cleanser like micellar water. Micellar water is great because it effectively removes makeup and impurities without the need for rinsing, making it perfect for spot treatment.

Simply grab a Q-tip, dip it in the micellar water, and lightly dab it on the darker spots. This helps lighten those areas without disturbing the rest of your tan.

For a more targeted approach, consider an over-the-counter bleaching agent like hydroquinone or a product containing niacinamide. These can help fade dark spots over time and even out your skin tone. With a little care, you can achieve that flawless glow while managing any dark spots effectively!

Question: Will self-tanner clog my pores?

Answer: Most face tanners are non-comedogenic, meaning they won't clog your pores. Just make sure to choose a formula that's suitable for your skin type, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Question: Can I use self-tanner with my retinol?

Answer: Yes, but it’s best to apply your retinol on alternating days. This way, you give your skin a break and allow the self-tanner to develop evenly without interference.

Question: Can tanners age your face?

Answer: Self-tanners won’t age your face if used correctly. Most contain lower concentrations of dihydroxyacetone (DHA), making them gentler while still providing a nice glow. Look for products with hydrating ingredients to prevent dryness, which is especially important for mature skin.

Proper application is key—exfoliating and moisturizing beforehand ensures an even finish and minimizes patchiness, which can accentuate fine lines.

Choosing the right shade is crucial; a color that matches your natural skin tone will give you a youthful, radiant look, while the wrong shade may highlight imperfections.

Question: How long does a self-tanner last?

Answer: Typically, a good self-tanner can last anywhere from 3 to 10 days, depending on your skin type and how often you exfoliate. Keeping your skin hydrated will help extend the life of your tan.



Before you go ....

Please tap on the💙in the bottom right corner if you found this page helpful.

Thanks so much!