Self-Tanner Emergency? Here's How to Fix the Most Common Mistakes

If you just can't seem to get the level of color correct, try switching from a self-tanning product to a gradual tanner, like Jergen's Natural Glow ($12) or St. Tropez Gradual Tan ($25).

Gradual tanners contain less of the active ingredient (usually DHA) and more moisturizing agents, which will allow you to build up the color in layers while keeping your skin looking and feeling good. If your self-tanner took you too dark, try using a gradual tanner for just a couple of days. If it was too light, try applying the gradual formula daily.

It might be tempting to keep layering up your self-tan for a deep, dark result, and Jules von Hep, celebrity tanner and creator of Isle of Paradise, recommends this for big events like festivals. However, as most self-tanners are quite drying, you could end up with flaky skin that fades unevenly if you do this regularly.