HOW TO TAN

TANNING TIPS

What is it made of?

ORA is made with all natural ingredients and is safe for all skin types. The active ingredient is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which works by gently staining the outer layer of skin cells to achieve a natural-looking tan.

ORA is formulated with four hero ingredients:

  • Hyaluronic Acid — Deep hydration that keeps skin soft, smooth, and oil free
  • Yerba Mate Leaf — Antioxidants to help skin look more awake and firm
  • Rosemary Leaf — Antimicrobial support for healthier and stronger skin
  • Pro-Vitamin B6 — Locks in moisture to allow for a naturally even tan

ORA is also:

  • Plant-Based
  • Alcohol-Free
  • Paraben-Free
  • Sulfate-Free
  • Cruelty-Free

You can find the full ingredient list on each product page.

How long does it last?

ORA typically lasts 5–7 days, though your results may vary based on a few factors:

  • Amount of product applied — More product builds deeper color that can last toward the longer end of the range
  • Development time — The longer you allow ORA to develop before rinsing, the deeper and longer-lasting your tan will be
  • Exfoliation — Frequent scrubbing or use of exfoliating products will fade your tan faster, as DHA works by staining the outermost layer of skin cells which naturally shed over time

Pro tip: To extend the life of your tan, moisturize daily, avoid harsh soaps and exfoliants, and pat skin dry instead of rubbing after showering.

Can I apply it to my whole body?

Yes! ORA is safe to apply from head to toe. However, certain areas require a slightly different technique to avoid over-darkening and achieve the most natural-looking result:

Face
Use a smaller amount than you would on your body and blend carefully around the hairline, eyebrows, and jawline. If you have dry patches or skin conditions, moisturize those areas lightly before applying to prevent uneven absorption.

Hands & Knuckles
This is where most self-tanner mistakes happen. Use a very small amount and blend thoroughly over the back of the hand. For knuckles, lightly skim over them rather than rubbing product directly in — the skin here is thicker and more textured and will absorb more color. Wash your palms immediately after applying.

Knees & Elbows
Like knuckles, these areas are drier and absorb more product. Apply a thin layer and blend outward — or lightly moisturize these spots beforehand to soften absorption.

Feet & Ankles
Use a minimal amount and blend well around the ankle bone and top of the foot. Avoid the soles entirely.

Pro tip: For any tricky areas — knuckles, elbows, knees, and hairline — try buffing with a damp cloth immediately after application to soften the color before it develops.

How do I get the best results?

Step 1: Exfoliate 24 Hours Before
Use a gentle body scrub or exfoliating mitt to remove dead skin cells — paying extra attention to knees, elbows, ankles, and any other dry areas. Do this the day before, not right before, as freshly exfoliated skin can be more sensitive and reactive.

Step 2: Moisturize Dry Areas
Right before applying ORA, lightly moisturize your knees, elbows, ankles, knuckles, and hairline. This creates a slight barrier that prevents these areas from over-absorbing color.

Step 3: Always Use a Mitt
Apply ORA with a tanning mitt in long, circular motions for an even, streak-free finish. Never apply directly with bare hands — except when blending small amounts onto the face.

Step 4: Work Section by Section
Break your body into sections — legs, torso, arms — and complete each one before moving on. This prevents the product from drying unevenly or missing spots.

Step 5: Less is More on Tricky Areas
Use a feather-light touch on the face, hands, knuckles, feet, and ankles. Refer to our application tips above for each specific area.

Step 6: Wash Your Palms Immediately
After applying to each section, quickly wash the palms of your hands to prevent staining.

Step 7: Allow ORA to Fully Develop
Avoid sweating, water contact, and tight clothing for at least 4–6 hours after application. The longer you allow ORA to develop, the deeper and longer-lasting your tan will be.

Step 8: Reveal & Rinse
Once fully developed, rinse off with warm water — no soap on the first rinse — and pat dry gently with a towel.