Use this homemade self tanner to get a sun-kissed glow without the use of unnatural chemicals. For a natural sun protection try this homemade sunscreen.
Homemade Self Tanner
Is your skin looking a little, shall we say, “pasty?” Unfortunately, that’s basically the story of my life! I’d love to blame being trapped indoors for so long (thanks, winter!), but the truth is I just don’t tan. Nope, I burn. (Thank goodness for this sunburn relief cream!) Normally, in my day-to-day life as a busy working mom, white-verging-on-transparent skin isn’t a problem, but every now and then I like to look, you know, not like a ghost. That’s when I turn to my all natural homemade self tanner.
Now, obviously, I have multiple options. I could try tanning beds, spray tanning, or store-bought self tanner, but I’m not a fan of any of those. First off, homemade self tanner is less expensive than anything except plain old sunlight. Second off, my all natural homemade self tanner is chemical and additive free. Not only is it not bad for my skin… it’s actually good for my skin thanks to ingredients like frankincense essential oil!
If you use quality ingredients, follow my self tanner tips, and learn how to apply self tanner properly (a little goes a long way!), this homemade self tanner will leave you with an envy-worthy sun kissed glow for pennies.
In addition to being inexpensive and good for your skin, there’s a lot to like about this homemade self tanner. For example, it only has 3 ingredients! Plus, if you make the lotion yourself you can get an all natural product that has even more skin nourishing ingredients like coconut oil. Last, but not least, you can whip up a batch of this homemade self tanner in 5 minutes.
Seriously, this homemade self tanner recipe is a win all the way around.
WARNING: While I love this homemade self tanner, it will not protect you against the sun. For that you need to apply a sunscreen. I’m a BIG fan of these homemade sunscreen lotion bars because they protect and nourish skin!
Now, say goodbye to your pasty skin and let’s get going with this homemade self tanner!
INGREDIENTS
1 cup unscented good quality lotion
1 to 2 tablespoons of baking cocoa
8 to 10 drops frankincense essential oil (optional)
Small Mason jar (or airtight glass container)
Self tanner tip: Make sure you’re using quality lotion in this recipe. To ensure you get a natural, top-notch product, consider making your own lotion. Just leave out any essential oils to get an unscented homemade lotion! 🙂
DIRECTIONS
1. Stir baking cocoa into lotion, making sure to break up all the little chunks of cocoa powder so you get even coloring.
Self tanner tip: To ensure a thorough mixing, use a food processor or stand mixer to complete step 1.
2. Add frankincense essential oil, if desired, to your homemade self tanner.
Self tanner tip: Frankincense essential oil is a great addition to your homemade self tanner because it has antiseptic, anti-fungal, antibacterial, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It will fight off acne causing infections, if it can’t prevent them from happening in the first place, and sooth inflamed skin. Frankincense essential oil also has astringent properties that can make pores appear smaller.
3. Scoop homemade self tanner into a jar, seal, and store in a cool dry place.
HOW TO APPLY SELF TANNER
1. In the shower, use an exfoliating scrub to remove any dry dead skin.
Self tanner tip: Try a homemade sugar scrub like these matcha green tea and mint sugar scrub bars.
2. Pat skin dry.
3. Gently rub a small amount (a light layer) of homemade self tanner onto skin.
Self tanner tip: Since this is all natural, it’s safe to use on your face.
4. Allow homemade self tanner to dry completely before getting dressed.
Self tanner tip: Since this homemade self tanner is all natural (meaning it doesn’t contain chemicals and additives), it will run if it gets wet. If you’re heading to the pool or the beach or rain is in the forecast, you may want to skip this homemade self tanner for the day. Instead, just make sure to use a good homemade sunscreen!
Loving this homemade self tanner? Believe it or not, there are tons of similar homemade bath and beauty products that can nourish your body, cut chemicals from your daily routine, and save you money! Get inspired by following Freebie Finding Mom’s:
How long does it last? Is it wash off and gone or does it pigment your skin for several days? Also, how easily does it streak and is the color orange-y?
Thanks for the recipe!