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40 GORGEOUS LAYERED LONG PIXIE CUT IDEAS

Have you heard of the layered long pixie cut? Starting with the timeless classic pixie cut, it has evolved into a longer version known as the long pixie, or “Lixie.” Now, we introduce the layered long pixie cut—a fantastic blend of the classic pixie, the length of a Lixie, and the added dimension of layers. It’s unique, stylish, and offers a fresh twist. If you’re looking for a change, your hair is the perfect place to start. So why not try this hairstyle for your next cut? Keep exploring with our curated collection of 40 layered long pixie cut styles below!

PIXIE CUT WITH LONG BANGS

Opt for a pixie cut with long bangs to reduce bulk and highlight your best features. A close crop around the sides and nape of the neck removes excess weight, making styling effortless. Adding a side part to an asymmetrical pixie cut creates extra volume in the fringe.

STRAIGHT LONG PIXIE WITH WISPY LAYERS

A straight long pixie cut with wispy layers is an ideal Lixie for women looking to add movement to straight hair. Blended layers create a uniform, rounded shape at the back. For a wispy finish, ask your stylist to texturize the edges and sideburns.

LONG LAYERED PIXIE FOR THIN HAIR

Choose a long layered pixie hairstyle for thin hair to add movement and create a fuller look. This style typically falls at or below the ears, with a fringe that grazes the jawline. Consult your stylist to see if a platinum blonde shade would suit your skin tone.

PIXIE WITH STACKED LAYERS FOR THICK HAIR

If you’ve been hesitant to go short because of your thick hair, worry no more! A pixie cut with stacked layers is the perfect solution. This stylish crop not only simplifies your styling routine but also helps manage the weight of your hair. A layered long pixie is especially great for reducing bulk. For the best results, blow-dry with Kevin Murphy’s Ever.Smooth and finish with Bedroom.Hair dry texturizer.

TEXTURED PIXIE CUT WITH CHOPPY LAYERS

For fine hair that needs a volume boost, try a textured pixie cut with choppy layers. Angled, cheek-skimming layers on a long choppy pixie frame your face beautifully and accentuate your cheekbones. To enhance the look, consider a rich hazelnut color with a few baby lights to warm your complexion and showcase the texture.

SHAGGY PIXIE CUT WITH CURTAIN BANGS

A shaggy pixie cut with curtain bangs is a stylish, easy-to-maintain short hairstyle that provides plenty of movement and suits straight, wavy, and curly textures. For a complete, low-maintenance look, add some soft, face-framing balayage to your long pixie cut for a wash-and-wear layered style.

WAVY PIXIE HAIR WITH LAYERS

For those with textured tresses, a wavy pixie cut with layers can be a fantastic choice. Pixies are incredibly versatile, flattering women of all ages and face shapes. Naturally wavy hair can be styled by letting it air dry with sea salt spray or enhanced with some loose waves created by a curling iron.

ANGLED PIXIE WITH A SIDE PART

If you’re considering a bold transformation, an angled pixie with a side part is worth considering. Short layered pixies offer sheer perfection, with soft, tousled layers and an asymmetrical side part that accentuate cheekbones and highlight your eyes. For a finishing touch, pair this chic style with a buttery shade of platinum blonde hair dye.

PIXIE WITH RAZORED CROWN LAYERS

If you have thin hair and want to add some volume, consider a pixie cut with razored crown layers. Layered long pixies for fine hair look incredibly chic with wispy sideburns and a short, swoopy fringe. This stylish razored crop is especially flattering for women over 50.

SIDE-SWEPT PIXIE CUT WITH LAYERS

Opt for a side-swept long pixie cut with layers for a look that’s both edgy and chic. This versatile haircut suits women of all ages and adds a touch of sophistication. Enhance your layered pixie with a stunning shade of champagne blonde.

TAPERED PIXIE CUT FOR FINE HAIR

A tapered pixie cut for fine hair is a lively layered style that revitalizes limp tresses. By trimming the back very close and leaving textured length around the sides and top, this creative long pixie cut adds volume and interest. For optimal lift, apply Living Proof Full Root Lift to damp hair and blow dry.

LAYERED PIXIE WITH HEAVY BANGS

Consider a layered pixie with heavy bangs for a chic, low-maintenance style. Long pixie hairstyles with layers and a full fringe can balance broad heart-shaped faces and shorten oval face shapes. Regular trims will help maintain the shape of your pixie and keep it looking fresh.

LAYERED PIXIE BOB

If you’re seeking a short cut with versatile styling options, try a layered pixie bob. This hairstyle, which falls between the ear and neck, is a perfect transitional choice if you’re not ready for a super short crop. Discuss with your stylist about adding icy beige highlights to make your new look truly stand out!

EXTRA LONG BLONDE PIXIE WITH A SIDE BANG

Opt for an extra long blonde pixie with a side bang for a classy, effortless look. To style, use a root lift product like Living Proof Full Root Lift on wet hair, or Puff.ME Powder on dry hair for added lift and separation. When blow-drying, avoid drying your hair flat against your scalp. Instead, dry in the opposite direction with a round brush, then flip your hair once it’s dry to achieve gorgeous volume.

FEATHERED PIXIE CUT WITH LAYERS

A feathered pixie cut with layers is incredibly chic and offers a soft, feminine style. It’s perfect for middle-aged professionals and older women. Feathered layers enhance medium wavy textures and are easy to maintain. For a quick, effortless look, simply wash and go, or add a bit of volume spray at the roots before a quick blow-dry to boost body.

BRUNETTE PIXIE BOB WITH LAYERS

A brunette pixie bob with layers is a stunning medium-to-short haircut that beautifully frames and accentuates the face. Layering a pixie bob adds body and movement, making the haircut easier to style. While a pixie bob does require daily styling to maintain its intentional look, the process is typically quick and straightforward.

BRUNETTE PIXIE BOB WITH LAYERS

A brunette pixie bob with layers is a stunning medium-to-short haircut that highlights and frames the face. Layering adds body and movement, making the style easier to manage. While a pixie bob does need daily styling to maintain its polished look, the process is usually quick and simple.

WHITE LONG PIXIE WITH SHORT LAYERS

Embrace natural beauty with a white long pixie featuring short layers. Adding short layers is an excellent way to create body and movement right at the crown. If your hair feels bulky at the nape or crown, removing excess weight can help it feel lighter and sit better, making styling easier.

LONG COPPER PIXIE WITH SIDEBURNS

The long copper pixie with sideburns is an ideal autumn hairstyle. It elegantly contours to the head shape, adding roundness at the crown and occipital area while accentuating the cheekbones with pointy, slightly feathered sideburns. To maintain the vibrancy of the copper color at home, consider using direct dye masks like Wella’s Colour Fresh Mask.

FEMININE GREY LIXIE WITH LAYERS

Try a feminine grey lixie with layers for a beautifully voluminous look. Ideal for adding height and reducing bulk in aging hair, a lixie is flattering on anyone. Layers provide a stylish, moveable look while keeping the overall appearance polished.

SILVER LIXIE FOR OLDER WOMEN

Hairstyles for older women have evolved significantly, offering a wide range of options. Whether you opt for professional texturizing for easy wear or embrace your natural silver or gray texture, a lixie is a versatile choice for a fresh look. This haircut adapts well to both smooth and curly textures, providing a stylish transition to a new you.

LIXIE BLONDE HIGHLIGHTS AND DARK ROOTS

Being in between styles can look fantastic, especially with a versatile lixie. A long pixie cut works wonderfully for showcasing blonde highlights with darker roots, offering a stylish and adaptable short hairstyle.

CUTE LIGHT BROWN PIXIE WITH LAYERS

Opt for a charming light brown pixie with textured layers. To achieve this look, request a long, swooped bang and uniform layers. For added dimension, consider highlights with lowlights to accentuate the layers. This style is ideal for women seeking a trendy, low-maintenance haircut.

RAZOR CUT LONG SHAGGY PIXIE

Consider a razor-cut long shaggy pixie for a lightweight, textured look. If you prefer a highly piecey style, a razor will create soft, fringed layers with plenty of texture. Personally, I love shags for their low-maintenance yet incredibly stylish appeal.

CHAMPAGNE BLONDE FEATHERY LIXIE CUT

Before opting for champagne blonde, consider your current hair color, budget, and maintenance needs. If your hair has a lot of color history, a feathery lixie cut can help streamline the process by removing bulk and allowing you to achieve your desired color more quickly.

YUMMY CHOCOLATE PIXIE

To soften a squared jawline, consider a long textured pixie. The longer sides frame your face and add curvature, which helps to soften your features. If you have thick hair, be sure to include extra texturizing throughout the cut to create shape and movement.

SIDE-SWEPT LIXIE WITH LONGER BANGS

If you want a shorter style while keeping some length, consider a side-swept lixie with longer bangs. Ask your stylist to use texturizing shears to add volume and texture. For extra volume when styling, simply backcomb the top a bit, and you’ll be set for the day.

SOFT FEATHERY LAYERS

Nothing exudes elegance like soft, feathery layers. For an easy-going yet sophisticated look, a long layered pixie is a fantastic choice. Your stylist will shape the layers to complement your head’s contours, using texturizing shears or a razor to achieve a soft, refined finish. To style, use volumizing mousse and a small to medium-sized round brush to add volume and definition.

CHIC PIXIE CUT WITH LIVED-IN LAYERS

Add a modern twist to your pixie cut for a chic and stylish look. Choose shorter layers at the crown to create a lived-in feel, and opt for wispy bangs to add softness. Finish with a dry texturizing product to achieve a natural, voluminous effect.

PERFECTLY LAYERED AND TAPERED LONG PIXIE CUT

Try a short, wispy stacked shag cut to create an eye-catching look that suits any face shape! This versatile hairstyle works beautifully with straight, wavy, or curly hair. To achieve this chic style, ask your stylist for tapering along the sides and subtle layering towards the back. es all the difference!

HAND-PAINTED BALAYAGE

Hand-painted balayage offers a natural, lived-in blonde effect, even on darker hair bases. However, if you’re aiming for a very light ashy blonde, the foilayage technique is your best option. These techniques produce different results, so it’s important not to confuse them. If you’re unsure, bring some reference photos to your colorist to ensure you get the desired outcome.

DARK BROWN LAYERED LIXIE

A dark brown layered pixie cut is a fantastic way to try something new and trendy. However, you’ll need a skilled hairstylist to create the short layers with precision. This cut is easy to style, versatile, and adds body and movement to your look. Be sure to communicate clearly with your stylist about the type of layers you want, and bring reference photos to ensure you both have a clear vision of the final result.

SOFT ASH BROWN LAYERED LIXIE

Opt for a soft layered ash brown lixie for a look that’s both soft and feminine. A disconnected long pixie works especially well for thick hair, reducing styling time due to the lighter volume. Softly textured layers provide movement and separation. To achieve an ethereal effect, use a half-inch curling wand and hair wax to define and separate the strands.

EDGY AND DIMENSIONAL LAYERED PIXIE

If you’re looking to refresh your short hair, consider a pixie cut with edgy layers and dimensional color. Request plenty of texture, especially if you have wavy hair, to enhance its sexy movement. Keep in mind that this style requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best.

VISIBLE LAYERS ON A LIXIE CUT

For older women with thick brown hair, incorporating visible layers into a lixie cut can create a youthful appearance. Ask your stylist to add layers that reduce weight, making the hair more manageable while adding volume. It’s important to balance the layers and length to prevent the hair from looking too thin or short. To style, use a blow-dryer and a large round brush to achieve volume and shape. For extra body and texture, consider using mousse or a volumizing spray.

COPPER LIXIE WITH LAYERS

To add volume to fine hair, consider a longer pixie style. This longer-frame cut works well for elongated face shapes and convex profiles. Choose a side part for added softness, and ask your stylist to layer the back and crown of your head strategically. This technique allows you to style with texture paste or use a round brush for a fuller appearance.

LAYERED LIXIE FOR VERY DARK HAIR

A layered pixie cut is perfect for women with dark, short, deep-toned hair seeking a fresh, stylish update. This haircut adds movement and texture to dark locks, creating a multi-dimensional effect. The layers enhance volume and shape while keeping the hair short, making it ideal for very dark hair as they enrich the color. For styling, apply a small amount of volumizing mousse to damp hair, then use your fingers to tousle and scrunch for added texture.

DARK ASH BROWN LAYERED LIXIE CUT

Pixie cuts remain popular for their easy maintenance, requiring minimal care at home. However, it’s important to schedule your next cut promptly, as even slight growth can become bothersome. For a softer appearance, keep a bit more length around the face to maintain a feminine and airy look. As a professional tip, avoid heavy, waxy products, as they can weigh the hair down.

ICONIC LONG PIXIE CUT

Choose a long pixie cut for a modern and effortless hairstyle. It’s important to discuss your face shape with your hairstylist, as this cut may not suit round faces as well. Opt for shaggy, razor-cut layers to achieve a textured look with natural movement. Blow dry with a bit of wax and style using your hands for the best results. Remember to leave a longer section in the front to enhance the cut and style it elegantly to the side.

BRUNETTE LIXIE WITH FEATHERED LAYERS

For your next cut, consider a brunette lixie with feathered layers. If your short hair feels too thick, ask your stylist to layer and thin it out. To style a long pixie cut, use a blow dryer and round brush, directing the hair away from your face so that the front layers fall gracefully along your hairline.

CHIC LIXIE WITH VISIBLE LAYERS AND TONES

If you want to stay stylish while maintaining your personal touch, opt for a chic pixie cut with visible layers and customizable tones. This haircut allows you to tailor the tones to your preference and keeps the hair slightly longer, giving you more styling options each day.

CONCLUSION

The long pixie cut is a versatile and stylish option that can suit a variety of face shapes and hair textures. With the addition of layers, this cut can be even more dynamic and expressive. Whether you prefer a classic look or something more edgy, there’s a layered long pixie cut out there for you. By considering factors like your face shape, hair texture, and personal style, you can find the perfect layered long pixie cut to enhance your beauty and confidence.

15 BEST DRUGSTORE SELF TANNERS YOU WILL LOVE  

Having a bronzed glow can make you look and feel healthy, but sunbathing isn’t the safest way to achieve it. Self-tanners are a great alternative, and there are many fantastic options available at drugstores. These self-tanners are affordable, easy to use, and can give you a natural-looking tan that develops over time. Keep reading!

OUR TOP PICKS

JERGENS NATURAL GLOW INSTANT SUN SUNLESS TANNING MOUSSE

If you’re looking for a quick and easy fake tan, Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Sunless Tanning Mousse is a great option. This drugstore favorite comes in two shades, light bronze and deep bronze, to suit different skin tones. The lightweight mousse applies smoothly and dries in just 60 seconds, so you won’t have to wait around for it to absorb. It also boasts a tropical, fruity scent that’s more pleasant than the self-tanner smell some products have. Plus, the formula develops gradually over a few hours, allowing you to control the intensity of your tan. For a deeper bronze, you can even reapply the next day.

TAN-LUXE THE FUTURE AIR BRUSH 360

Aiming for a luxurious, streak-free tan at home? Tan-Luxe’s The Future Air Brush 360 Self-Tan Mist might be your perfect match. This limited-edition product, co-created with Paris Hilton, is designed to deliver a professional spray tan experience in a convenient mist form. The innovative 360 airless mister lets you apply the product at any angle, ensuring even coverage without splotches. The clear, lightweight formula develops into a natural-looking tan thanks to Tan-Luxe’s Triple Tan+ Technology. This technology allows the tanning agents to penetrate deeper for a faster-developing tan that lasts longer. Plus, the formula adapts to your individual skin tone to prevent an orange tint, leaving you with a customized, sun-kissed glow. To complete the luxurious experience, the self-tan mist comes with a Luxe Mitt for a smooth, streak-free application.

L’ORÉAL PARIS SUBLIME BRONZE SELF-TANNING WATER MOUSSE

If you’re looking for a hydrating self-tanner that develops gradually for a natural-looking tan, L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Water Mousse is a great option. This lightweight mousse absorbs quickly into skin for a comfortable, invisible feel. Enriched with coconut water and Vitamin E, the formula hydrates as it tans, leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth. Unlike some self-tanners that can have a strong odor, L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze has a pleasant scent. The clear, water-based formula develops into a natural-looking tan over 4-8 hours, allowing you to control the intensity by reapplying if desired. Plus, the product is streak-free and transfer-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about it staining your clothes.

L’ORÉAL PARIS SUBLIME BRONZE HYDRATING SELF-TANNING MILK

Want a gradual, natural-looking tan with a boost of hydration? L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Hydrating Self-Tanning Milk might be your perfect match. This lotion-like formula is designed to deliver a streak-free, bronzed glow while also nourishing your skin. Enriched with Vitamin E, it helps soften and smooth skin as the self-tanner develops. Unlike some self-tanners that can be drying, this hydrating milk leaves your skin feeling comfortable. You can use it alone as a gradual tanner three times a week, or apply it in between applications of other self-tanning products from the Sublime Bronze line to maintain your tan. This versatility makes it a great option for those who want a customizable and hydrating self-tanning experience.

CLARINS SELF TANNING INSTANT GEL

If you’re looking for an immediate bronzed glow that washes off easily, Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel is a great choice. This lightweight gel delivers a natural-looking tan that develops instantly, perfect for those times you want a touch of summer color without the commitment of a self-tanner that develops over time. The formula is also hydrating thanks to glycerin, so you won’t have to worry about it drying out your skin. Plus, it absorbs quickly and dries fast, allowing you to get dressed right away. While it washes off in the shower, the Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel can even act as a guide for self-tanning products that take longer to develop, helping you achieve even coverage.

SOL BY JERGENS NO WAIT TROPICAL TAN TINTED MOUSSE

The Sol by Jergens No Wait Tropical Tan Tinted Mousse is an innovative self-tanning product designed to provide a quick and natural-looking tan. This tinted mousse formula allows for an effortless application, ensuring even coverage and a streak-free finish. Infused with a tropical fragrance, it offers a pleasant scent, enhancing the tanning experience. The no-wait feature means that the tan develops quickly, allowing you to see results within hours without the need for prolonged drying time. Enriched with hydrating ingredients, this mousse not only delivers a beautiful sun-kissed glow but also keeps your skin moisturized and smooth. Perfect for those seeking a fast and convenient self-tanning solution, the Sol by Jergens No Wait Tropical Tan Tinted Mousse is a must-have in your beauty routine.

COCO & EVE SUNNY HONEY BALI BRONZING FOAM

The Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam is a premium self-tanner that promises a natural, sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV rays. This luxurious bronzing foam is enriched with natural ingredients such as coconut, mandarin oil, and amino acids, which help to hydrate and nourish the skin while developing a flawless tan. Its lightweight, non-sticky formula ensures an even application, drying quickly to prevent any transfer onto clothing or sheets. Additionally, the tropical scent of mango and guava makes the tanning process a delightfully fragrant experience. Perfect for all skin types, the Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam delivers a streak-free, long-lasting tan that fades evenly, leaving your skin glowing and radiant.

BONDI SANDS AERO 1 HOUR EXPRESS SELF-TANNING FOAM

The Bondi Sands Aero 1 Hour Express Self-Tanning Foam is a revolutionary self-tanner designed for those who want a quick and effective tanning solution. This advanced formula allows you to achieve a natural, bronzed glow in just one hour, making it perfect for last-minute plans or busy schedules. The lightweight, aerated foam glides effortlessly onto the skin, ensuring an even, streak-free application with minimal effort. Enriched with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E, this self-tanner not only provides a beautiful tan but also nourishes and moisturizes your skin. The tropical coconut scent adds a touch of luxury to the tanning experience, leaving you feeling refreshed and sun-kissed. Ideal for all skin types, the Bondi Sands Aero 1 Hour Express Self-Tanning Foam delivers a long-lasting, radiant tan that develops quickly and fades evenly, making it a must-have for anyone seeking a fast and flawless self-tanning solution.

LUX UNFILTERED N°12 BRONZING FACE DROPS

The Lux Unfiltered N°12 Bronzing Face Drops are a luxurious addition to any skincare routine, designed to provide a natural, sun-kissed glow to your complexion. These bronzing drops are formulated with high-quality ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and aloe vera, which help to hydrate and soothe the skin while delivering a customizable tan. Simply mix a few drops into your favorite moisturizer or serum to achieve your desired level of bronziness without the need for sun exposure. The lightweight, non-greasy formula ensures a smooth and even application, leaving no streaks or patches. Perfect for all skin types, the Lux Unfiltered N°12 Bronzing Face Drops offer a subtle, buildable tan that enhances your natural beauty while keeping your skin nourished and radiant. With a delicate, pleasant fragrance, these drops make the tanning process a delightful experience, giving you a healthy, glowing complexion all year round.

ST. TROPEZ SELF TAN CLASSIC BRONZING MOUSSE

The St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse is a cult-favorite self-tanner that delivers a natural-looking, sun-kissed glow. This lightweight mousse is easy to apply, thanks to its quick-drying, non-sticky formula that glides effortlessly onto the skin for an even, streak-free finish. Enriched with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, it helps to keep the skin soft and moisturized while developing a beautiful tan. The mousse is tinted, allowing you to see where you have applied it, ensuring a flawless application every time. Suitable for all skin types, the St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse offers a customizable tan that can be built up for a deeper color or applied in a single layer for a subtle glow. With a pleasant, subtle fragrance, this self-tanner provides a luxurious tanning experience without the typical self-tan smell. Ideal for achieving a radiant, long-lasting tan, the St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse is a must-have for anyone looking to achieve a professional-quality tan at home.

BANANA BOAT SUMMER COLOR SELF-TANNING MIST

The Banana Boat Summer Color Self-Tanning Mist is a convenient and effective way to achieve a natural-looking tan without exposure to the sun. This easy-to-use mist allows for a quick and even application, ensuring a streak-free finish that develops into a beautiful, golden glow. The formulation is designed to dry quickly, so you can get dressed and go about your day without waiting for the product to absorb. Enriched with nourishing ingredients, it helps to keep your skin hydrated and smooth while providing a long-lasting tan that fades evenly. The 360-degree spray nozzle allows you to reach even those hard-to-reach areas, ensuring an all-over tan that looks professional. Suitable for all skin types, the Banana Boat Summer Color Self-Tanning Mist provides a customizable tan that can be built up to your desired shade. With a light, pleasant fragrance, this self-tanner offers a delightful tanning experience, making it an essential addition to your summer skincare routine.

SALLY HANSEN AIRBRUSH LEGS LEG MAKEUP

The Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Leg Makeup is a game-changer for achieving flawless, smooth legs instantly. This innovative leg makeup comes in an easy-to-use spray formula that provides an airbrushed, even finish, covering imperfections like veins, scars, and blemishes. Enriched with palmaria extract, it not only offers a beautiful, natural-looking tan but also enhances the skin’s texture, making it look firmer and healthier. The lightweight, water-resistant formula ensures that your legs stay perfect all day, even through sweat and humidity. Drying quickly upon application, it allows you to dress immediately without worrying about smudges or stains. Suitable for all skin tones, the Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Leg Makeup delivers a streak-free, long-lasting finish, making it a must-have for anyone looking to achieve photo-ready legs effortlessly.

VITA LIBERATA FABULOUS GRADUAL TANNING LOTION

The Vita Liberata Fabulous Gradual Tanning Lotion is an ideal choice for those seeking a subtle, buildable tan that develops over time. This luxurious lotion combines the benefits of a moisturizer with a gradual tanner, allowing you to achieve a natural-looking glow with each application. Formulated with organic ingredients such as aloe vera and marula oil, it not only tans but also deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth. The lightweight, non-greasy texture ensures easy and even application, without any streaks or patches. Suitable for all skin types, the Vita Liberata Fabulous Gradual Tanning Lotion is perfect for maintaining a year-round sun-kissed complexion, with the freedom to control the depth of your tan. Free from harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances, it provides a gentle and pleasant tanning experience, making it a staple in any skincare routine.

NEUTROGENA BUILD-A-TAN GRADUAL SUNLESS TANNING LOTION

The Neutrogena Build-A-Tan Gradual Sunless Tanning Lotion is a versatile and user-friendly option for achieving a customizable tan. This gradual tanning lotion allows you to control the depth of your tan by adjusting the frequency of application, ensuring a natural-looking glow that suits your preferences. Infused with skin-nourishing ingredients, it moisturizes while it tans, leaving your skin soft and hydrated. The lightweight, non-greasy formula glides on smoothly, providing an even, streak-free finish without the typical self-tanner odor. Suitable for all skin types, the Neutrogena Build-A-Tan Gradual Sunless Tanning Lotion is perfect for those new to self-tanning or anyone looking to maintain a subtle, sun-kissed look year-round. Easy to apply and quick-drying, it fits seamlessly into any skincare routine, making it a convenient choice for a gradual, radiant tan.

BONDI SANDS TECHNOCOLOR EMERALD 1 HOUR EXPRESS SELF TANNING FOAM

The Bondi Sands Technocolor Emerald 1 Hour Express Self Tanning Foam is an innovative product designed to deliver a deep, rich tan in just one hour. This express self-tanning foam is perfect for those who want a quick and effective tanning solution. Infused with a unique emerald base, it neutralizes orange tones and ensures a natural-looking, olive tan. The lightweight foam applies effortlessly, providing an even, streak-free finish that develops quickly.

Formulated with skin-loving ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E, it hydrates and nourishes the skin while delivering a flawless tan. The quick-drying formula allows you to get dressed shortly after application, making it convenient for those with a busy schedule. Suitable for all skin types, the Bondi Sands Technocolor Emerald Self Tanning Foam offers a customizable tan that can be left on for up to three hours for a deeper color.

With its pleasant tropical scent, this self-tanner transforms your tanning routine into a delightful experience. Ideal for achieving a professional-quality tan at home, the Bondi Sands Technocolor Emerald 1 Hour Express Self Tanning Foam is a must-have for anyone looking for a fast and beautiful tan.

SALTYFACE THE BASIC SELF TANNER

The Saltyface The Basic Self Tanner is a straightforward and effective solution for achieving a natural, sun-kissed glow. Designed with simplicity in mind, this self-tanner provides a gradual, buildable tan that allows you to control the intensity of your color with each application. The formula is enriched with moisturizing ingredients that ensure your skin stays hydrated and smooth, preventing dryness and patchiness often associated with self-tanning products.

The lightweight, non-greasy texture makes for easy and even application, ensuring a streak-free finish every time. Suitable for all skin types, The Basic Self Tanner is perfect for both beginners and experienced tanners looking for a reliable, no-fuss product. It also features a pleasant, subtle scent that makes the tanning process enjoyable.

With its gentle formulation, the Saltyface The Basic Self Tanner is ideal for maintaining a year-round tan that looks natural and radiant. Easy to incorporate into your regular skincare routine, this self-tanner is a dependable choice for achieving a beautiful, sun-kissed complexion without the harmful effects of UV exposure.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A SELF-TANNER 

Choosing the right self-tanner can ensure a beautiful, natural-looking glow without sun damage. Here are some key factors to consider when picking your perfect drugstore self-tanner:

Skin Tone and Type: Self-tanners come in a variety of shades to suit different skin tones. For fair skin, opt for a light or medium shade with 1-3% DHA (dihydroxyacetone, the tanning agent). Olive skin tones can handle a bit more DHA, around 5%, while darker skin tones may need a formula with over 5% DHA to achieve a noticeable tan. Consider your skin type as well. Dry skin benefits from hydrating formulas like lotions or mousses, while oily skin might prefer a gel or water-based formula for a matte finish. Sensitive skin should look for fragrance-free formulas to minimize irritation.

Gradual vs. Instant Tan: Do you want a tan that develops over time, or something that provides instant color? Gradual tanners allow you to control the intensity of the tan by reapplying. These typically take 4-8 hours to develop. Instant tanners provide a temporary color that washes off in the shower, perfect for an immediate touch of summer glow.

Application and Convenience: Consider the format and ease of application. Mousses and lotions are popular choices for their blendability, while gels can be easier to apply to specific areas. If you’re a self-tanning newbie, a tinted formula can help you see where you’re applying the product to avoid streaks. Opt for quick-drying options if waiting around isn’t your thing.

Fragrance and Ingredients: Some self-tanners have a distinct odor. Look for fragrance-free options if you have sensitive skin or simply dislike the smell. If you’re concerned about ingredients, choose a product with natural ingredients and hydrating properties like Vitamin E or shea butter.

HOW DO SELF-TANNERS WORK?

Unlike sun tans, which involve your skin producing melanin in response to UV rays, self-tanners work through a chemical reaction. The key ingredient in most self-tanners is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a colorless sugar. Here’s the breakdown:

DHA Reacts with Dead Skin Cells: When you apply self-tanner, the DHA comes into contact with the dead skin cells on the outermost layer of your skin (the stratum corneum).

Color Change: DHA reacts with the amino acids, the building blocks of protein, in these dead skin cells. This reaction causes a chemical change, resulting in a brownish color on the surface of your skin. This browning process is similar to the way a cut apple turns brown when exposed to air.

Gradual Development: The color change doesn’t happen instantly. It takes a few hours for the reaction between DHA and the amino acids to reach its full effect. This is why most self-tanners develop gradually over 4-8 hours.

Fading Tan: Since the DHA reacts with the top layer of dead skin cells, the tan fades as these cells naturally shed over time. This is typically within 3-10 days, depending on your skin cell turnover rate. Exfoliation can also accelerate the fading process by removing the tanned dead skin cells more quickly.

It’s important to note that self-tanning only affects the outermost layer of dead skin cells. It doesn’t involve melanin production or UV rays, making it a safer alternative to sun tanning.

HOW DO YOU APPLY SELF-TANNER?

Here’s a guide to achieving a flawless, streak-free tan with self-tanner:

  • Exfoliation is Key: Begin by exfoliating your skin 24-48 hours before applying self-tanner. This removes dead skin cells, creating a smooth, even surface for the self-tanner to adhere to. Pay extra attention to areas prone to dryness and buildup, like elbows, knees, ankles, and feet.
  • Moisturize Dry Areas: Self-tanner can cling to dry patches, resulting in streaks. To prevent this, apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to dry areas like elbows, knees, ankles, hands, and feet before self-tanning.
  • Apply with a Mitt: For a streak-free application, use a tanning mitt. Apply a small amount of self-tanner to the mitt and use circular motions to blend it evenly over your skin. Use light pressure on areas where self-tanner tends to accumulate, like elbows, knees, and ankles.
  • Don’t Forget the Back: Getting to those hard-to-reach areas like your back can be tricky. Apply self-tanner to a mitt and ask a friend to help you apply it to your back for even coverage. Alternatively, use a self-tanning back applicator tool.
  • Wash Your Hands: Self-tanner can stain your palms. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after applying the self-tanner.
  • Let it Dry Completely: Allow the self-tanner to dry completely before getting dressed. This will help prevent streaks and transfer onto your clothes.
  • Develop the Tan: Most self-tanners take 4-8 hours to develop fully. Avoid showering or sweating during this time.
  • Maintain Your Tan: To maintain your self-tan, moisturize your skin daily. Exfoliate lightly 2-3 times a week to remove fading self-tanner and prevent buildup. You can also reapply self-tanner as needed.

CONCLUSION

With so many fantastic drugstore self-tanners on the market, you’re sure to find the perfect option to achieve a beautiful, natural-looking tan without damaging your skin. Consider your skin tone, desired effect, and application preferences when making your choice. By following these tips and tricks, you can enjoy a sun-kissed glow all year long!