Sunless tanning has become more than just a beauty trend—it’s a lifestyle for anyone who wants a bronzed, radiant glow without exposing their skin to harmful UV rays. And when it comes to high-quality, transformative self tanning products, Sun Labs continues to stand out as one of the most trusted names in the industry. Whether you’re using the iconic Sun sunless tanner, the rich Sun ultra dark tanning lotion, or the always-reliable Sun self tanner medium, you can achieve a flawless, streak-free glow at home with the right techniques.

This all-in-one, in-depth guide walks you step-by-step through the entire process—from pre-tan exfoliation to application tools, from how to apply self sun tanning lotion correctly to speeding up drying times, and finishing with a detailed plan for caring for your glow all week long. Whether you’re a beginner or tanning pro, this guide will help you get your most even, long-lasting tan yet.

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Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Why Sun Labs Is Trusted by Glowing Fans Everywhere

2. Understanding Sunless Tanning & DHA

3. Step-by-Step Pre-Tan Skin Prep

4. Exfoliation Tips: Why They Matter

5. Tools You Need: Mitts, Back Applicators, Exfoliating Gloves & More

6. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Sun Labs Self Tanner Correctly

7. How to Use Sun Laboratories Ultra Dark Sunless Tanning Lotion

8. Special Tips for Using Sun Self Tanner Medium

9. Tanning the Face Safely & Naturally

10. Speeding Up Drying Times: Every Trick You Should Know

11. Dressing After Application

12. Maintaining Your Glow All Week

13. Fixing Mistakes & Touch-Ups

14. Sun Laboratories Reviews: What Users Love Most

15. Final Thoughts: Mastering Your Best Sunless Tan

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1. Why Sun Labs Is One of the Most Trusted Names in Sunless Tanning

When it comes to self sun tanning lotion, people want a product that is:

• Easy to apply

• Even in color

• Long-lasting

• Natural looking

• Non-sticky

• Smelling good

• Kind to sensitive skin

Sun Labs (also known as Sun Laboratories) has delivered this for decades. Their formulas—especially favorites like Sun ultra dark tanning lotion, ultra dark sunless tanning lotion, and Sun sunless tanner—are known for:

✔ Rich, deep bronzing results

✔ Fast development time

✔ Skin-loving ingredients

✔ Vegan, cruelty-free formulas

✔ Long wear without patchiness

Many Sun Laboratories reviews rave about how the tan looks like a professional spray tan—but at home, and for a fraction of the price.

If you want a long-lasting glow that looks evenly airbrushed and truly natural, the techniques you use matter just as much as the product. That’s why your tanning journey begins before you even touch the bottle.

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2. Understanding How Sunless Tanner Works

Sunless tanning products work using an ingredient called DHA (dihydroxyacetone). When DHA interacts with the outer layer of dead skin cells, it causes a natural browning effect—similar to how a sliced apple turns brown when exposed to air.

Your color develops within 3–8 hours depending on:

• the formula

• your skin type

• how much you applied

The key takeaway?
Your tan depends entirely on the condition of your outer skin layer—which is why prep, exfoliation, and aftercare are crucial.

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3. Step-By-Step Pre-Tan Skin Prep

To get the best results with any Sun Labs sunless tanning lotion—whether Sun self tanner medium, Sun sunless tanner, or Sun ultra dark tanning lotion—you need to start with fresh, clean skin.

The Perfect 24-Hour Pre-Tan Prep Routine

24 hours before tanning

• Shave or wax (gives pores time to close)

• Exfoliate your entire body with an exfoliating glove or scrub

• Avoid bar soaps—they leave residue

• Moisturize elbows, knees, hands, and feet

The day of tanning

• Shower with a gentle cleanser

• Avoid lotions, oils, perfumes, and deodorants (they create tan blockers)

• Make sure your skin is 100% dry before applying any product

Proper prep ensures your Sun Labs tan goes on smoothly, adheres evenly, and lasts as long as possible.

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4. The Power of Exfoliation: Why It’s the Secret to a Perfect Sunless Tan

Exfoliation is the most important step of your tanning routine—yet it’s also the most skipped. Without exfoliation, your tan clings unevenly to dry patches, producing dark spots, streaks, and uneven fading.

Why Exfoliation Matters

• Removes dead skin cells that would shed quickly

• Ensures a smooth foundation for your tan

• Prevents “scaly” fading

• Helps your tan last up to 3 extra days

• Eliminates oils and residue

How to Exfoliate Correctly

Use one or more of the following tools:

• Exfoliating gloves

• Dry brushes

• Body scrubs with sugar or salt

• Chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA body lotions)—use 48 hours before tanning

Focus heavily on:

• Knees

• Elbows

• Ankles

• Heels

• Underarms

• Back of legs

These areas tend to trap buildup and will grab more pigment.

How Do I Know I’m Exfoliated Enough?

Your skin should feel:

• smooth

• soft

• not greasy

• not tight

When you run your hand over your arms or legs, it should feel uniform—not bumpy.

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5. Essential Tools for a Flawless Sunless Tan

Using the right tools makes an enormous difference in how your Sun Labs tan applies, blends, and dries.

1. Tanning Mitt

A high-quality tanning mitt:

• protects your hands from staining

• helps blend the product evenly

• reduces streaks

• ensures smooth application

Always use a clean mitt with Sun Laboratories products for best results.

2. Back Applicator

If you tan your back—and most people do—a back tanning applicator is essential.

It helps apply Sun Labs tanning lotion in:

• even layers

• without twisting

• without using too much product

3. Exfoliating Gloves

These are ideal for prepping the skin to ensure your tan doesn’t cling to dry patches.

4. Barrier Cream (optional but helpful)

A simple fragrance-free moisturizer works too. Apply it lightly to:

• elbows

• knees

• ankles

• wrists

• knuckles

• tops of hands

• heels

This prevents over-development in areas where skin naturally absorbs more DHA.

5. Makeup Brush or Blending Brush

Perfect for:

• hands

• feet

• face

• wrists

• neck

• blending edges

It helps diffuse product for the most natural finish.

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6. Step-By-Step: How to Apply Sun Labs Sunless Tanner Correctly

Now we get into the heart of the guide: correct application technique.

This applies to all formulas including:

• Sun sunless tanner

• Sun ultra dark tanning lotion

• Ultra dark sunless tanning lotion

• Self sun tanning lotion

• Sun self tanner medium

Step 1: Start With Dry, Product-Free Skin

Make sure your skin is completely dry, especially:

• back of knees

• underarms

• hands

Step 2: Apply Barrier Cream

Lightly moisturize rough areas only. Do not apply lotion everywhere.

Step 3: Apply Tanner in Sections

Work one area at a time:

1. Lower legs

2. Upper legs

3. Stomach

4. Chest

5. Arms

6. Back (using back applicator)

7. Neck

8. Face

How Much Product Should You Use?

For ultra dark sunless tanning lotion, less is more—start with a small amount and build.

For Sun self tanner medium, you can apply a normal amount for a subtle, buildable sun tanner glow.

Step 4: Use Circular Motions

Blend using:

• long sweeping motions on limbs

• tight circles on joints

Step 5: Save Hands & Feet for Last

Use only leftover product from your mitt—not a fresh pump.

Step 6: Let Tanner Set Properly

Avoid:

• sweating

• water

• touching your skin

• sitting on fabric

for at least 20–30 minutes.

For best results, avoid showering for 6–10 hours.

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7. How to Use Sun Laboratories Ultra Dark Sunless Tanning Lotion

The Sun ultra dark tanning lotion is one of Sun Labs’ boldest, richest bronzing formulas. It is extremely popular for those who:

• tan easily

• already have medium to dark skin

• want a vacation-level glow

• love deep chocolate color

Tips for Ultra Dark Shade

• Apply in a very well-lit room

• Use a tanning mitt—never bare hands

• Blend constantly; it processes fast

• Use sparingly around joints

• Wear dark loose clothes to avoid transfer

If you want the deepest possible color, let it develop overnight.

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8. Special Tips for Using Sun Self Tanner Medium

The Sun self tanner medium is ideal for:

• beginners sun tanner

• fair to light skin tones

• those who want a gentle glow

• layering color gradually

• daily or every-other-day self tanning

If you're new to Sun Labs, this is often the recommended starting point.

For Best Results:

• Apply every 2–3 days to maintain glow

• Use a small amount on your face

• Exfoliate lightly between applications

• Moisturize daily

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9. How to Tan Your Face Naturally & Safely

Facial tanning can be tricky, but with the right method you can achieve a natural, seamless glow.

Tips for a Perfect Face Tan

• Use less product than you think you need

• Mix one pea-sized drop with moisturizer for even blending

• Blend into hairline, ears, and jawline

• Use a makeup brush for finishing touches

This prevents harsh lines and ensures your face blends beautifully with your neck and chest.

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10. How to Speed Up Drying Times

One common question in Sun Laboratories reviews is:
“How do I make my sunless tanner dry faster?”

Here are the best techniques:

✔ Use Less Product

Applying too much keeps your skin wet longer.

✔ Stand in Front of a Fan

A fan or cool air helps set your tan quickly.

✔ Use a Blow Dryer (Cool Setting)

Never use heat—it affects DHA development.

✔ Apply Powder After 10 Minutes

Baby powder, setting powder, or a body drying powder helps prevent stickiness.

✔ Wear Loose, Breathable Clothing

Light cotton is the best choice after tanning.

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11. What to Wear After Applying Your Sun Labs Tanner

Choose:

• dark colors

• loose flowy fabrics

• elastic-free waistbands

• no bras with tight bands (if tanning upper body)

Avoid:

• leggings

• tight socks

• jeans

• synthetic fabrics

This helps prevent streaks and transfer.

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12. How to Care for Your Glow All Week Long

Once you’ve applied your Sun sunless tanner, maintaining it is the key to long-lasting results.

Day 1: Lock It In

• First shower: rinse only, no soap

• Pat skin dry—don’t rub

• Moisturize with a lotion free of oils

Day 2–4: Hydrate Daily

DHA fades faster on dry skin, so hydrate with:

• aloe vera lotion

• glycerin-based moisturizer

• hyaluronic body lotion

Avoid:

• body washes with sulfates

• hot showers

• swimming pools

• saunas

• exfoliating

Day 4–6: Light Exfoliation

Use:

• a soft cloth or gentle exfoliating glove

• hydrating scrub

• enzyme exfoliant

This prevents patchiness and helps your tan fade evenly.

Day 6–8: Touch-Ups

Apply:

• Sun self tanner medium for a gentle boost, or

• Sun ultra dark tanning lotion for deeper color

This schedule can keep your tan looking fresh indefinitely.

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13. Fixing Common Mistakes & Emergency Tan Repairs

Even the most experienced tanners make mistakes. The good news: every problem has a solution.

Streaks

• Apply a thin layer of lotion to even them out

• Or exfoliate the area and reapply

Dark patches

• Use baking soda + water paste to lighten

• Use an AHA toner and buff lightly

Orange color

Usually caused by too much product or dry skin.
Fix by exfoliating lightly and switching to Sun self tanner medium for next application.

Hands too dark

• Rub lemon juice on knuckles

• Use a glycolic acid wipe

Missed spots on back

Use a back applicator and apply again in a thin layer.

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14. Sun Laboratories Reviews: What Customers Say

Sun Labs has thousands of loyal fans across the world. In most Sun Laboratories reviews, customers highlight the same benefits:

✔ Ultra natural color

Many fans report that Sun Labs tans look just like a spray tan—never orange.

✔ Long-lasting without patchy fading

The color fades evenly when skin is moisturized correctly.

✔ Perfect for sensitive skin

Users with eczema, dry skin, or reactive skin often report no irritation.

✔ Fast development

Color begins to appear within hours—and deepens overnight.

✔ Works on all skin tones

From fair to deep, the formulas deliver reliable, beautiful results.

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15. Final Thoughts: Master the Art of a Perfect Sunless Tan

Achieving your best glow with Sun Labs is a combination of:

• using the right tools

• prepping your skin properly

• applying correctly

• drying efficiently

• caring for your tan throughout the week

Whether you prefer the rich tone of Sun ultra dark tanning lotion, the gradual ease of Sun self tanner medium, or the classic Sun sunless tanner, following these steps will help you achieve a beautiful, healthy bronze—every single time.

Sun Labs products deliver professional-quality results at home, empowering you to glow confidently without the risks of UV sun exposure. With this guide, you now have the knowledge to create your most flawless, even, radiant tan yet.