Source
r/weddingplanning•
_cool_beans_

Any recommendations for self tanning lotion? Or is this a terrible idea?

Wedding is in just under two weeks. I just had my final fitting, and was looking at pics of me in my backless gown. I have a slight but noticeable sports bra tan. Since it's noticeable in the crappy cell phone pics, I'm worried about how pronounced it will be with HD cameras and nice lighting.

TL;DR I was thinking of using a tanning lotion. Anyone have any recommendations? Or is this a terrible thing to try out so close to the wedding? Will it look weird if I just use it on my back?

Thanks for any pointers!

Posted Mar 5, 2017, 9:13 PM UTC

612
ashley_the_otterColumbus, OH May 26, 2018•

I think you should go to a pro, the kind where it's a person spraying you. I would suggest going once now, and then once a few days before your wedding (at least 2).

11
_cool_beans_OP3.18.17 | Philly•

Oh interesting, that never would have occurred to me. I've never done any kind of tanning. Unfortunately I wouldn't have time to go until 6 days before my wedding (I'm in finals week at law school right now, would have to drive 30ish minutes to get to a place, have no free time and lots of stress).

Would that be worth it?

2
katieshineh9.16.17 Portsmouth, NH•

If it's a great spray tan technician then YES worth it. Another idea Do you have money in your photography budget for touch ups?

3
ashley_the_otterColumbus, OH May 26, 2018•

It's totally a personal decision. I would definately not try to DIY. For me it would be worth it because I hate tan lines with nice dresses. You may want to let them know you're wedding date and ask when the best day to come in would be. 6 days might be enough time for it to fade quite a bit.

1
greenbean999•

I would absolutely not try anything new right before the wedding - what if you are allergic or make things way worse than a tiny line that people can barely see

I'd look at makeup options with your artist, a dusting of some powder could fix your issue

A spray tan is an option but it's still something new that you can't undo if it goes poorly

Personally I'd live with a slight tan line, your photographer will fix it in any photos anyways

5
bethanyb00Baltimore Bride 8/12/17•

I like the St. Tropez tanning mousse but only if:

  • You don't have sensitive skin
  • Your skin isn't super dry
  • Someone can help you apply on your back
  • You wear gloves or a mitt and research how to apply properly!

Tinted products are great because you can see exactly where it's going so you're less likely be streaky. It could be pretty tricky to use it only in one area that you're trying to even out.

If it was me I would ask your MUA (if you plan on having one) for her recommendation.

5
JindallaeFall 2018/CNY•

The Walmart (equate) brand is an exact dupe to this as well if you want to go frugal!

1
Holdtheintangible•

I use this and I love it. Their lotion is great too.

1
iamazygonBmoreBride 5-5-18•

I would tell go to an air spray tanner. They'll be able to cover your lines!

3
Afquinn•

A makeup artist recommended tan towels to me. I was debating between a professional spray tan and tanning mousse, but she pretty adamantly suggested the towels. She said they had less streaking, you have more control over how dark you go, and that they're the best bang for the buck (in her opinion). I bought some from amazon for $30 which includes enough for a few practice rounds. Haven't tried them yet, but they got great reviews! I've also used St. Tropez before and liked it.

2
mrstrollweddingacct•

Tan towels! Worked great for wedding, didn't get on any fabric, didn't look streaky or orange, worked perfectly. I read a lot of reviews before deciding on them

1
coy-fish06.24.17 | Texas•

Call your MUA today and see what she recommends!

1