Body Bronzer vs Self-Tanner: What Is the Difference?

Body bronzer is makeup for the body. It tints the skin the moment you apply it and washes off with soap and water. Self-tanner is a skincare product that reacts with the surface of the skin to develop color over several hours, and that color lasts for days until the skin sheds. Choose bronzer for an instant glow for one day or evening. Choose self-tanner for color that stays through showers for about a week.

Bronzer vs self-tanner at a glance

Neither one protects you from the sun

A bronzed look from a bottle is not sun protection. Unless a product is labeled with an SPF, it gives none, and a self-tan does not protect skin either. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen as usual when you are outdoors.

When is body bronzer the better choice?

• You want color today, for an event or photos.
• You want to try a shade with no commitment.
• You want to even out legs, arms or shoulders, or blur the look of marks for a few hours.
• You dislike the smell or development time of self-tanner.
• You want to top up a fading tan.

When is self-tanner the better choice?

• You want color that survives showers and swimming.
• You are going away for a week.
• You do not want to reapply each day.
• You are happy to prepare your skin and wait for the result.

How do you apply body bronzer?

1. Patch test on a small area first if you have sensitive skin.
2. Shower and dry off. Moisturize dry areas, such as knees, elbows and ankles, and let it sink in.
3. Dress in something loose and dark for the application.
4. Put a small amount on a body brush, mitt or your palm.
5. Work one area at a time, in large circular motions, blending as you go.
6. Use what is left on your hands for knees, elbows, ankles and the tops of the feet. They need less.
7. Blend the edges at the wrists, neckline and jaw so there is no line.
8. Wash your palms straight away.
9. Let it set for several minutes before dressing.

An instant bronzing cream

The Uexim instant body bronzer cream gives an instant, sun-kissed glow, with a formula the listing describes as lightweight, non-greasy and blurring, and as waterproof and smudge-resistant in wear. It contains hyaluronic acid, comes in a 100 ml size, and is available in four shades: 01 Dark, 02 Ivory, 03 Cocoa and 04 Nat. Choose a shade one or two steps deeper than your natural skin tone for a believable result.

How do you avoid transfer?

• Apply a thin layer and blend it fully.
• Let it set before you dress.
• Wear darker fabrics, and be careful with pale straps, collars and upholstery.
• Even formulas described as waterproof can move with sweat, rain or friction. Test before a big event.
• Dust translucent powder over areas that rub, such as the inner arms.

How do you remove it?

Wash with warm water and soap or body wash, using a washcloth or mitt. For formulas described as waterproof, massage in an oil-based cleanser or body oil first, then wash. Check towels, since some color may come off on them.

Can you use both?

Yes. Many people build a base with self-tanner and add bronzer on the day for extra depth and glow, or use bronzer to disguise a patchy, fading tan.

Frequently asked questions

Does body bronzer stain clothes?

It can transfer, especially before it sets or when you sweat. Let it dry, and wear dark colors.

Can I use body bronzer on my face?

Use products on the face only if they are described for it. Body formulas can be heavier.

Will bronzer cover stretch marks or veins?

A tinted product can soften how they look for a few hours. It does not change the skin.

Is self-tanner safer than sunbathing?

It avoids UV exposure, which is the cause of sun damage. It still gives no sun protection, so sunscreen is needed.

The bottom line

Bronzer is instant and washes off. Self-tanner develops and lasts for days. Pick by how long you want the color, and wear sunscreen either way.