Transitioning to a More Subtle Autumn Glow: Your Guide to Achieving the Perfect Seasonal Tan

By Amanda Watson

Lady with Body Glow and autumnal colours

As summer fades and the crisp air of autumn settles in, many of us find ourselves wanting to transition from a deep summer tan to a more subtle, natural glow that complements the season's softer colours but continues to give us that glowing body confidence.

If you’re looking to update your tan to match the cosy autumn vibes, you’re in the right place! This blog will guide you through the process of transitioning to a more subtle autumn tan, with tips on choosing the right products, application techniques, and maintenance tricks to keep your skin looking naturally radiant all season long.

Why Opt for a Subtle Autumn Tan?

Transitioning to a more subdued tan for autumn is a great way to refresh your look and match the softer, earthy tones of the season whilst still giving you that glowing body confidence. A subtle tan can:

  • Enhance Your Natural Skin Tone: A lighter tan allows your natural beauty to shine through, enhancing your skin tone without overpowering it.
  • Reflect Seasonal Changes: As the sun's intensity lessens, a lighter tan mimics the natural transition our skin undergoes, offering a more natural appearance.

Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving a Subtle Autumn Tan

1. Choose the Right Tanning Product

The key to transitioning to a more subtle tan lies in selecting the right product. Here are a few options to consider:

  • Gradual Tanning Lotions: Our Body Glow Gradual Tanners are perfect for creating a light, buildable tan. They provide hydration and a slow-developing colour, allowing you to achieve a subtle glow over several applications. Plus, for warmer days when you want to reveal more, they can be built up to achieve a darker tan.
Body Glow benefits
  • Self-Tanning Serums: Lightweight and easy to blend, our Wonder Serum is formulated with anti-ageing Q10, calming Vitamin E and hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, making them ideal for autumn when you skin needs extra care.
Wonder Serum ingredients
  • Face Tanning Drops: Our face is on show all year round so make sure you don't neglect it!  For a subtle autumnal glow, mix Notox Face Tanning Drops with your favourite moisturiser for a customisable tan. This method allows you to control the intensity of your tan and is great for achieving a subtle, everyday glow.
Notox Face Tanning Oil benefits

Look for formulas with hydrating ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid or Aloe Vera to keep your skin moisturised and smooth as the weather cools and your skin needs extra nourishment.

2. Prep Your Skin for a Flawless Application

To achieve a smooth, even tan, proper skin preparation is essential. Here’s how to prep your skin:

  • Exfoliate and Remove Old Tan: If you’re transitioning from a deeper summer tan, use Miracle Tan Eraser and our Exfoliating Mitt to fade any leftover color. This ensures a fresh start for your new, subtle autumn tan. 
Miracle tan Eraser & Exfoliating Mitt
  • Moisturise: Hydrate your skin with a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser, focusing on dry areas. This will help the tanning product apply evenly and prevent it from clinging to dry patches. 

3. Apply Your Tanning Product for a Natural Glow

When transitioning to a more subtle tan, less is more. Follow these application tips for a natural, autumn glow:

  • Use our Pink Velvet Tanning Mitt: Apply your tanning product with the mitt to ensure an even application and avoid staining your hands.
Pink Velvet Tanning Mitt
  • Start Light: Begin with a small amount of product and apply it in circular motions. This helps create a light, even tan that can be built up gradually if needed.
  • Blend Well: Pay special attention to blending around the ankles, knees, elbows, and wrists with our Body Buffing Brush to avoid harsh lines or darker patches. 
Body Buffing Brush
  • Face Application: For a subtle tan on your face, mix a small amount of Notox Face Tanning Drops with your moisturiser. Apply lightly, blending well around the hairline, ears, and neck.
Miracle Brush

4. Maintain Your Autumn Tan

Once you’ve achieved your perfect autumn tan, maintaining it is key to keeping your glow looking fresh and natural:

  • Hydrate Daily: Moisturise your skin daily to keep it hydrated and extend the life of your tan. Look for products with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or shea butter to lock in moisture.
  • Avoid Harsh Exfoliants: To prevent your tan from fading unevenly, avoid using harsh exfoliants or scrubs. Instead, opt for a gentle body wash and pat your skin dry with a towel.
  • Touch Up as Needed: To maintain a consistent colour, apply a gradual tanning lotion or a light layer of your self-tanning product every few days. This helps refresh your tan and keep it looking natural.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Transitioning to a Subtle Tan

  • Applying Too Much Product: When aiming for a subtle tan, less is more. Start with a light application and build up gradually to avoid a too-dark or unnatural look.
  • Neglecting Prep: Skipping exfoliation and moisturising can lead to uneven application and patchy results. Proper prep ensures a smooth, even tan.
  • Ignoring Aftercare: Failing to moisturise regularly or using harsh products can cause your tan to fade quickly or unevenly. Follow aftercare tips to prolong your glow.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning to a more subtle autumn tan is a great way to refresh your look and embrace the changing seasons whilst giving you that glowing body confidence. By choosing the right products, preparing your skin properly, and following a few simple application and aftercare steps, you can achieve a beautiful, natural-looking glow that complements the cosy, warm tones of autumn. Remember, the key is to keep it natural and let your inner glow shine through. Happy tanning!