
Self Tan
From Pale to Golden
6/2/20252 min read
My self-tanning journey and favorite products
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been that girl—the one who burns after 10 minutes in the sun and walks around glowing like a tomato before fading back to just slightly less pale. My legs? Practically reflective. And don’t even get me started on trying to wear shorts or skirts without sunglasses being involved (for others, not me).
After years of embracing the sun-fried struggle, I finally gave up on real tanning and entered the world of self-tanning. I’ve tested every mousse, spray, drop, and lotion out there—some with tragic results (hello, orange ankles), others with subtle success. But now? I’ve finally found a product that delivers exactly what I’ve been chasing all these years.
🌺 My Favorite: Hawaiian Tropic Sunless Tan Self-Tanning Foam
Let me tell you, this is the one. It checks all my boxes and then some.
Why I Love It:
Smells amazing – tropical, light, and nothing like the weird chemical scent of most self-tanners.
Applies like a dream – the foam glides on smooth and blends easily.
Gives a natural-looking tan – not too dark, not too orange, just right.
Gets me compliments – seriously, every time I use it someone says, “You’re glowing!”
It’s lightweight, streak-free, and doesn’t leave me feeling sticky. Just a golden glow that builds beautifully and fades evenly.
🌞 Bella’s Self-Tanning Faves
Bella was blessed she tans easily, doesn’t burn, and starts summer already looking sun kissed. Still, even she loves a good self-tan to boost her glow and even out her tone.
Here are her top picks:
💧 b.tan Self Tanning Drops for Face & Body
Just add a few drops to your daily moisturizer for a buildable, custom tan.🧼 b.tan Self Tan Remover + Body Wash
The ultimate way to prep your skin for a fresh tan—or fix any tanning mishaps (because we’ve all been there).
✨ Tips for a Flawless Fake Tan
Whether you're pale like me or just looking to enhance your natural color, here are a few self-tanning tips I swear by:
Exfoliate before applying to prevent streaks and patches.
Always use a tanning mitt to avoid stained palms..
Moisturize daily to keep your glow going strong and help it fade evenly.
☀️ Final Thoughts
Self-tanning has completely changed how I feel about showing a little skin in the warmer months. No more hiding my legs or dreading the beach. Whether you're a fellow "burn then fade" girl or someone just looking to enhance your natural bronze, the right product makes all the difference.
Have a favorite self-tanner or a funny tanning fail? Drop it in the comments—I love swapping glow-up stories!
Until next time, stay golden ✨
