Self-tanner is such an amazing way to get a bronzed glow all from the comfort of your own home. Self-tanners are easy to use and fairly easy to apply until it is time to apply the self-tanner to your back. Most of us don’t have arms that can wrap around our body, so when we get to applying self-tanner to our backs, we are pretty stuck.
Luckily the experts have been there and done that, and created some helpful tanning back applicators. They make the self-tanning application so much easier, and they can easily be bought online. A tanning back applicator is what you need to cover those hard-to-reach areas, giving you an even, complete tan. It takes the stress out of self-tanning, and you just need to worry about how best to enjoy your gorgeous, even new glow.
In this article, we’ll not only go over what these devices are, and how to use them, but we’ll also cover the absolute best tanning back applicators you can buy. Let’s get right into it!
What Is A Tanning Back Applicator?
A tanning back applicator is a gift from the gods. It is a super useful tool that helps you apply self-tanner evenly onto your back without help from anyone else. It is pretty effortless to use and cuts out all the stress of applying self-tanner to your back. Tanning back applicators come in a few different forms, so you will just need to figure out which one is for you.
One type of tanning applicator is a long-handled tool with pads or sponges that the self-tanning lotion is placed upon. Using the long handle, the self-tanner is spread across the back easily. A good tanning back applicator will give you a smooth and even application. The sponges are usually washable and reusable, so it saves you a bit of money. This type of applicator can also be used all over the body in place of a separate tanning mitt.
Another type of applicator comes in the form of a length of a special material that has handles on either end. The tanning lotion is placed in the center of the material and using both hands, you move the material back and forth on your back as if drying your back with a towel. This spreads the self-tanner evenly across your back, getting into all the problem areas.
The 5 Best Tanning Back Applicators
There are some great tanning back applicators out there, but there are also some that aren’t so great either. Luckily, we did the testing for you and found the absolute best products on the market today. Through our own testing, reading of reviews, research, and more, we were able to find what we think are the absolute best.
We factored in:
- Price
- Quality
- User Reviews
- Ease of use
- … and much more.
But enough blabbing, let’s get to the best self tanning wands and back applicators:
1. Skinerals Padded Self-Tanning Back Wand
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Skinerals is a trusted name when it comes to all things self-tanning, so it is no wonder that they have one of the best tanning back applicators on the market.
The brand is focused on using only natural and organic ingredients wherever possible, giving your skin only the best. The products as a whole leave your skin feeling nourished and protected after each use.
The back wand has an extended handle that helps you reach those difficult areas on your back. The actual applicator surface is padded with a sponge that helps restore and rejuvenate the skin, all while spreading the self-tanning lotion evenly and stress-free. The wand helps prevent your hands from becoming orange when being in contact with too much self-tanning lotion and the wand can be used on the rest of the body as well.
It is a safe and gentle applicator that has been made to protect and rejuvenate your skin while helping give it a gorgeous glow at the same time.
2. Slick Solutions Self-Tan Applicator
Check the current price on Amazon.
Applying self-tanner to your back is now as easy as drying your back after a bath or shower. The velvety, soft band is really easy to use and can apply lotion to your entire back, not leaving any patches. What helps it get into those hard to reach places is that it is stretchy, so you can really work it and contort it to fit your body shape.
The self-tanner applicator is made using a micro-fiber cloth that is both stretchable and durable, and the rope handles on either end are strongly stitched on, so they won’t break mid-application. The applicator can even be folded and used as a tanning mitt for the rest of your body, so it serves more than one purpose.
To clean the cloth, you can simply throw it into the washing machine and dryer, making it is stress and hassle-free. It comes in a convenient travel bag so you can take it around with you for any touch-ups or tanning on the go!
3. Vive Back Lotion Applicator
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The Vive Back Lotion Applicator is an all-around, easy to use tool when applying self-tanner to your back. It can even be used for creams, gels, and other lotions. It evenly applies self-tanner to the back and saves you having to bend and twist to get your back evenly covered with a glowing tan.
With a 17 inch handle, you really can reach all the areas on your body. The applicator pad has a surface of 3.5 inches, so it also gets great coverage as well. Made from durable lotus wood, the handle will not slip or crack, and the nonslip textured rubber grip means you will have a firm grasp on the wand at all times. There is a rope loop at the end of the applicator, which is perfect for hanging on the wall or slipping over your wrist for added security during application.
Hygienically, the applicator is up to standard. The lotus wood is coated with a clear waterproof layer that makes it resistant to mold and mildew, perfect for safe repeated use.
It is a reliable and efficient self-tanning applicator that can be used all over the body if desired. The soft pads spread the self-tanner evenly, all while giving the skin a gentle rub to encourage rejuvenation and increase blood flow.
4. ModelCo Self-Tan Back Applicator
Check the current price on Amazon.
This self-tanning back applicator is your answer to those hard to reach places and have limited access to certain areas on your back.
A reusable self-tanning applicator gives you an even application and spread of your self-tanning lotion, all with some simple motions. The applicator is made using velvety-smooth material and aids the even distribution and flawlessness of your self-tan.
The applicator can be used with any self-tanning lotion, gel, mousse, and even self-tanning mist. It gives great coverage on the whole back and reaches every little inch. It is as simple as a backward and forward motion with each hand, wiping the lotion across your back.
The handles on either end are securely fastened, so there is no chance of them snapping mid-tan application. Your hands will be saved from turning orange due to an excess of self-tanning lotion and all that time wasted trying to twist and turn to reach some areas on your back.
It is cruelty-free and vegan, making it a great option for the eco-conscious. It can be thrown in the wash for quick cleaning, ready to be used again.
5. Body Reach Unbreakable Lotion Applicator
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For an applicator that reaches all those impossible areas, this is the one for you. It helps extend your range of motion, giving you access to self-tan your whole body on your own.
The applicator is made from a durable, bendable, and lightweight material, perfect for use over an extended period of time. Being bendable, it really lets you get to those hidden and hard to reach areas that are usually left un-tanned. The handle is 14 inches long, so it has a good reach.
The double-sided sponge is made from a soft, hypoallergenic nylon material that gives an even and smooth spread of self-tanning lotion. The set comes with an additional 4 sponges, giving you use of the applicator for a longer time.
The sponges are removable, washable and non-absorbent. Your self-tanning lotion, cream or gel will not soak into the sponge, meaning you use less during each application. It can be used to apply any other lotions or creams, and even aids in the treatment of dry skin, acne, sunburns, and other skin ailments.
How to Use a Tanning Back Applicator
- Cleanse, exfoliate and moisturize skin the night before application.
- To start off, you will need to have chosen your favorite self-tanner to use. Lotions, gels or mousses are the best options to use when applying self-tanner with a back applicator.
- Place a dab of self-tanner (however much you will need) on the center of your back applicator.
- If you are using a long material strip applicator, place it over your shoulders and holding it in both hands, move the applicator backward and forwards, as if drying your back with a towel.
- If using a handheld applicator, use each hand and reach to your back and rub in the self-tanner. It might help to look into a mirror to check you are covering all the areas you usually miss.
- Repeat these steps until your preferred color is obtained.
- Leave the self-tanner to set for a required time before wearing clothing.
How to Care For Your Tanning Back Applicator
You will need to wash your tanning back applicator after each use to keep it hygienic and effective. Each tanning back applicator should come with care instructions, so be sure to follow those carefully in order to make the back applicator last as long as possible and to give you optimum results.
If you do not clean the leftover self-tanner from the applicator before the next use, it could leave you with a streaky and patchy tan. It could also become moldy and grow mildew, which definitely is not ideal at all.
Tips for Using Your Tanning Back Applicator
A tanning back applicator is quite a nifty little tool. It doesn’t have to be used only on the back. You can use it to apply tanner to other hard to reach places such as your feet, legs, and neck. If you purchase a tanning back applicator with a long handle, it can actually also be used to apply self-tanner to your whole body instead of using a tanning mitt. It cuts down the cost of self-tanning and gives you one less tool to use.
Use more tanning lotion than normal
When applying self-tanning lotion to your back, it is a good idea to use a little bit extra than normal. Make sure that the product is applied and rubbed into the applicator so that you don’t get any blotchy or streaky areas when applied to your back.
Change directions when applying
As you rub the self-tanning lotion into your back, change the direction of your rubs. Go from up and down to side to side, this will ensure that the entire product has been rubbed in evenly and there won’t be any streaky lines left from the same direction of movement.
The hardest area to apply self-tanning lotion to is the area between your shoulder blades. If you find you have missed this area out or if it isn’t looking how you want it to, take a misting self-tanning spray, bend forward, bow your head and gently spray into this area, it will fix any mistakes.
Exfoliate first
The self-tanning lotion works by reacting with dry skin. By exfoliating before applying the self-tanner, you are removing any excess skin that might react with the self-tanning lotion and create dark patches that will completely ruin the look of your tan. An exfoliation mitt or brush will help you exfoliate the hard to reach places on your back. Also focus on your knees, ankles, heels, and elbows.
Moisturize after exfoliating
Moisturize your skin beforehand as well. After exfoliating, you will need to rehydrate your skin. A lightweight lotion would work best, as it won’t sit on the skin and affect how the self-tanner sets. The self-tanner will also prevent drier areas from turning orange or dark brown. Moisturizer is also good to use after applying the self-tanner, as it keeps the skin hydrated and looking healthy, making the tan actually last longer as well.
Start from your feet
Start from your feet and work your way up when applying self-tanner. Your back will be one of the last places you need to apply self-tanner to. This helps avoid any dark patches from bending over, as you will do the lower parts of your body first before the top. It also gives you the chance to watch for any darker spots as you work your way up your body.
Know how to remove dark spots
If you are stuck with one or two darker spots on your body from the self-tanner, rubbing half of a lemon on the area for a few minutes and then gently rubbing the area with a damp towel should lighten or remove the darker spots completely.
Be patient while the self-tanner sets
Also wait a little bit longer than recommended for the self-tanner to set. This just saves you in case you have applied it thicker in some areas. Once you have waited enough time, apply a thin layer of baby powder all over to stop the tan transferring onto your clothes.
Final Thoughts
You no longer have to worry about those hard to reach places on your back and around your body. There are different, really good quality tanning back applicators to be found on Amazon, you just have to decide which one is best for you and what you need.
Depending on your range of motion and the product you use, there is a tanning back applicator out there for you, and it will quickly become your best friend when the self-tanning time comes knocking.
Stop the twisting and turning in vain; rather use an applicator that will make your life so much easier. You really have no excuse for a pale back, or a badly applied tan anymore!
