How to Use Tanning Mousse to Get a Bronze That Lasts

Tanning lotion or tanning mousse? A question as probing as, “To be, or not to be?” If you’re looking to get a faux tan (the only safe and recommended way to tan, ahem), the options can be a little overwhelming, especially in today’s overpopulated world of at-home self tanners. You’ve got tanning drops, tanning sprays, tanning wipes, and even tanning gels. But by far the most popular—and most recommended—choices in the self-tan game? Tanning mousse and tanning lotion. 

If you were alive (and self-tanning) in the early aughts, you’ll likely remember tanning lotions, thanks to the fact that they were the only at-home option available. But in the last decade, tanning mousse has largely surpassed lotions in terms of ease and popularity—and, honestly, we’re not mad about it. But if you’re still feeling on the fence about your self-tan options and need some extra help, we’ve gotchu. Below, we chatted with a sunless-tanning expert on everything you need to know to get a streak-free glow at home.

What is tanning mousse? 

Tanning mousse is a lightweight, foam-based self-tanner designed to give your skin a temporary bronzed glow without the sun exposure (or the damage). Compared to lotion, mousse tends to absorb quicker and spread easier, especially when you’re using a recommended tanning mitt. (Not sure which to try? We've personally tested and loved the St. Tropez Express Mousse and/or the Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Mousse.)

As with all self-tanners, tanning mousse contains the active ingredient dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a sugar-derived compound that reacts with the amino acids in your skin’s surface to create a browning effect, similar to how a sliced apple turns brown when exposed to air. “Mousses can be clear and develop gradually over one to 12 hours, or they can include a temporary bronzing tint—called a color guide—that gives you an instant tan while the DHA develops underneath,” says tanning expert Kelsi Zimmerman.

Tanning mousse vs. tanning lotion 

If you’ve been in the at-home tanning game for a while, you’re probably familiar with the many tanning lotions and elixirs out there. But what makes a lotion different from a mousse? “Aside from their textures, tanning mousses typically contain higher levels of DHA, which means deeper color and longer-lasting results after a single application,” says Zimmerman. “Tanning lotions, on the other hand, usually develop more gradually and are meant to be built up over multiple days.”

That doesn’t mean mousse is automatically “better,” though. If you’re a first-time self-tanner or nervous about streaks, lotion may be more forgiving—it’s subtler and easier to correct as you go. Lotion can also be a better choice for very dry skin with flaky patches, since it usually contains lower DHA concentrations and more hydrating ingredients.

Not sure which to try? Think about how much time you want to invest and how quickly you want results. Mousse is great if you're prepping for an event and want a noticeable glow fast. Lotion is better if you prefer a slow build or want to ease into tanning with less pressure for perfection.

How to use tanning mousse

As with any self-tanner, proper prep is everything. For the most even, long-lasting glow, exfoliate and shave (if desired) at least 12 hours before applying mousse. Try using a body scrub instead of a washcloth or loofah to more evenly remove dead skin and create a smoother canvas for the formula to develop.

On the day you plan to apply your tanning mousse, make sure your skin is clean and free of lotion, deodorant, or perfume, which can interfere with the DHA and lead to streaks and patchiness. The one exception is if you have dry areas, like on your elbows or knees, in which case you’ll want to massage on a super-thin layer of body lotion at least 15 minutes before application time to prevent a blotchy bronze.

To apply, “pump a golf ball-sized puff of mousse onto a tanning mitt,” says Zimmerman, then use long, gliding motions to blend it over each section of your body. For trickier areas like your face, hands, and feet, Zimmerman recommends using a clean kabuki brush for more precise blending. If you want a deeper tan, you can add a second layer once the first one has dried—but if it’s your first time using the product, start with one coat and see how it develops.

After application, slip into loose, dark clothing and avoid water, sweating, or tight-fitting fabrics while the tan sets (typically between 1 to 12 hours, depending on the formula). “If you do smudge your tan or get a drop of water on your skin, grab a clean makeup brush and gently buff the area to even it out,” says Zimmerman.

Once your tan has fully developed according to your tanning mousse’s instructions, rinse off with lukewarm water—no soap just yet. After your first shower, you can resume your usual routine, but you’ll still want to avoid exfoliating your skin to help your tan last longer.

How to take care of a self-tan from tanning mousse 

After applying your tan, stick to moisturizing lotions without exfoliating ingredients like retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, or other resurfacing acids, which can speed up the cellular turnover in your skin and cause your color to fade faster. Zimmerman recommends lightweight yet moisturizing options like Hempz lotion, Jergens Ultra Healing Lotion, or Fenty Skin Butta Drop Body Milk to lock in hydration without disrupting your glow.

You'll also want to keep showers lukewarm, avoid exfoliating scrubs, and gently pat—rather than rub—your skin dry to help preserve your color. With the right care, your self-tan can stay fresh for about a week before gradually and evenly fading.

Final takeaway 

You don’t need a pro to get a great sunless tan at home—just a little prep and a bit of patience. If you're new to self-tanning, start with a gradual tanning lotion to build your confidence and control. When you’re feeling confident in your ability to color within the lines, try a tanning mousse, which develops into a darker tan more rapidly. If you’re a real pro and like a super-dark bronze, you can also top your tanning mousse tan with a gradual tanning lotion to prolong your glow for as long as possible.