As our skin changes with age, the products we use need to change too. Many fake tans that work beautifully on younger skin can look patchy, dry or even slightly orange on mature skin.
The good news is that with the right formula and a few simple preparation steps, self tanning can give mature skin a beautiful natural glow.
As someone who has worked in tanning for over 20 years and now in my mid-40s, I’ve learned that the secret is choosing formulas that hydrate the skin and fade evenly.
Why Fake Tan Looks Different on Mature Skin
Mature skin tends to be:
- slightly drier
- more textured
- thinner in certain areas
Traditional heavy fake tan formulas can cling to dry patches, making the colour look uneven. That’s why hydration and formula choice are so important.
What to Look For in a Self Tan for Mature Skin
When choosing a fake tan for mature skin, look for formulas that:
• hydrate the skin
• develop into natural olive tones
• fade evenly without patchiness
• develop quickly so they don’t over-process
Express mousse formulas are often ideal because you can control the colour depth by adjusting rinse time.
My Personal Self Tanning Routine at 46
After many years in the tanning industry, this is the routine I personally follow for a natural glow. I tan every couple of weeks.
Removing dead skin cells ensures the tan develops evenly.
2. Moisturise dry areas
Focus on elbows, knees and ankles. I also moisturise my face.
3. Apply a lightweight mousse formula on your body and Face Tan Water on your face.
I prefer express mousse formulas because they develop quickly and rinse off after 1-3 hours.
4. Rinse and hydrate
Once the guide colour is rinsed off, the tan continues developing while the skin stays hydrated. Do not rinse the Face Tan Water!

How to Make Your Fake Tan Fade Evenly
One of the biggest concerns for mature skin is uneven fading.
A few habits make a huge difference:
• dry brush once or twice during the week
• stay hydrated
When the skin stays nourished, the tan fades naturally instead of breaking up in patches.

A Natural Glow at Any Age
Self tanning is one of the easiest ways to enhance your natural skin tone without sun damage.
With the right preparation and a formula designed to develop evenly, mature skin can look radiant and healthy with a soft sun-kissed glow.
If you’re looking for a lightweight express formula that develops quickly and fades naturally, Ms. Lova Express Tanning Mousse was designed with exactly that in mind.