How to Achieve a Radiant Glow: Body Oils and Spray Tanning Tips
Whether you’re off to a sunny getaway or enjoying a cozy staycation, one thing remains clear: radiant, sun-kissed skin is always in vogue.
If you’re unsure how to begin, Us has your back. From shimmer oils and bronzing drops to ultra-luxurious body care, these quick glow boosters are set to become essential in your beauty and skincare arsenal.
And that’s not all. In addition to a lineup of beauty editor-approved products, Us consulted the Tan Edit founder and celebrity spray-tanner Erika Vasco for her expert insights. For those days when you’re seeking more than just a luminous glow, but a natural, streak-free tan—without the UV damage—she’s shared her top tips for achieving a flawless look that will have everyone guessing if you just returned from paradise.
Read on for all the details:
Mega Moisturizer
Fenty Skin’s Butta Drop Whipped Oil Body Cream with Tropical Oils + Shea Butter is now available in a stunning new fragrance, Amber Bouquet, offering the same moisturizing benefits joined with notes of tropical amber, freesia, sparkling yuzu, and coconut.
Self-Care Treat
Take a cue from Megan Thee Stallion and indulge with NYX Professional Makeup’s Caramelt Mami Body Oil, designed to elevate your daily routine with its sweet blend of pistachio cream, caramel swirl, and brown sugar.
Skin Soother
Halo 42’s Nourishing Face & Body Elixir combines copaiba resin oil with cold-pressed botanicals—including jojoba and geranium—to envelop dry, sensitive skin without feeling greasy.
Sparkling Lotion
Finish off your beauty routine by applying a layer of Hempz Glow Getter Shimmer Body Moisturizer on your arms and legs for a touch of rose-gold shimmer.
Multitasker MVP
Babor’s Soul & Body Shimmer Oil Grounding not only ensures you look luminous all over, but is also infused with essential fatty acids to help strengthen your skin barrier.
Vacation Hero
Protect and hydrate your skin with Hawaiian Tropic’s Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance Lotion SPF 30, filled with vitamins and botanical extracts like papaya and mango. Alix Earle is a fan!
Radiance Revival
Too much sun exposure? No matter how parched your skin feels, the Body Butter Melt from Mutha provides an immediate burst of moisture and a dewy look that’s hard to miss—or feel!
No-Fuss Hydrator
If you’re looking for a lightweight oil without shimmer, consider Maëlys’ So-Supple Barrier Body Oil, enriched with squalane and bisabolol for a velvety finish.
Sun-Kissed Effect
For a natural glow beyond just your face, blend a few drops of Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Everything Bronze Drops—infused with anti-aging and protective properties—into your favorite moisturizer and apply to your neck and décolletage.
Erika’s Self-Tan Secrets for a Filtered-Like Glow
Prep Is Everything
“Start exfoliating gently three to four days before you apply tanning products,” Vasco advises, as this prepares your skin for a smooth, streak-free application. “An exfoliating mitt like Cleanlogic’s is great for this purpose.” When selecting a scrub, she recommends avoiding any oil- or cream-based options, as they might leave a residue that can interfere with tanning.
How To Sculpt and Define
“Contouring can create depth and dimension, enhancing your body’s natural form,” she says. “Use thinner brushes for precision—these give you control for detailed areas like the abs. Then, switch to a larger, foundation-style brush to blend and soften the edges for a seamless look.”
You Can Minimize the Appearance of Cellulite
“Consistent application is key,” she stresses. “The upper thighs often appear lighter, so make sure you apply ample product to level the tone across the leg.” This evens out texture: “When the color is uniform, the skin looks smoother and more cohesive.”
Pick the Right Formula
For those with “sensitive or textured skin,” Vasco suggests using a clear tanning water—like her very own Water Veil—which is best for delicate areas like the neck, shoulders, décolletage, and arms. “They’re usually free of bronzers, making them less likely to cling to dry patches or bring attention to uneven textures.”
