Should You Moisturise Before Fake Tanning? Essential Tips for Success

Pre-Tanning Preparation

Exfoliate to Remove Dead Skin Cells

Exfoliating your skin at least 24 hours before the tan application creates a smooth canvas. This removes dead skin cells, making your skin appear smoother and fresher.

Exfoliate using a gentle exfoliant and either exfoliating gloves or an exfoliating mitt. Buff away dry skin, paying extra attention to areas like feet, ankles, elbows, and knees.

Exfoliating helps to prevent uneven skin tone and ensures a natural-looking tan.

Hair Removal and Deodorant

Remove body hair 24 hours before self-tanning to prevent the fake tan from sinking into your pores and creating dark spots.

Suppose you opt for waxing; wax at least 48 hours before to prevent irritation. Shave toward hair growth and use gentle oils and body washes to avoid irritation.

Avoid using deodorant and perfume before fake tanning to prevent sticky layers on the skin’s surface and ensure a smooth, even tan.

Deodorants and perfumes can interfere with fake tan, causing the colour to change and become patchy.

Choosing the Right Fake Tan

Selecting the Best Self self-tanning product

Choose a self-tanner that suits your skin type and desired finish, whether you want to achieve a natural or intense bronzed glow.

Opt for self-tanning products that contain hydrating ingredients such as Aloe Vera and Hyaluronic acid. These ingredients found in fake tan will keep your skin hydrated and moisturised and will give you a radiant glow.

Consider using a tanning mousse or drops that provide a natural-looking, easy-to-apply tan. For a more convenient option, consider getting a professional spray tan that takes you several shades darker.

Moisturising for a Successful Fake Tan

The Importance of Moisturising

Moisturise your skin daily before fake tanning to hydrate dry areas like elbows, knees, and feet.
Apply moisturiser 2-3 hours before fake tanning to create a smooth canvas for the tan.
Hydrated skin retains colour, meaning your fake tan will fade more naturally instead of in patches.
Moisturising helps to prevent dry skin and ensures a natural-looking tan that lasts longer.
Opt for a moisturiser with a lightweight formula.

Application and Aftercare

Applying Fake Tan

Use a tanning mitt to apply fake tan for a flawless, streak-free finish.
Apply fake tan in circular and vertical strokes, working from the bottom up to prevent streaks and uneven colour.
Allow the tan to dry thoroughly before dressing to prevent rubbing and marks on the skin.
After 30 minutes, apply a second layer of fake tan for an even darker tone.

Allowing the Tan to Dry

Allow the tan to dry thoroughly before dressing to prevent rubbing and marks on the skin.
Opt for loose, dark clothing to prevent staining and discoloration.
Avoid using hot water or harsh shower gels, and opt for a moisture-heavy body wash instead.
Shower with lukewarm water and rinse your body until the water runs clear.

Maintaining Your Fake Tan

Showering and Exercise

To prevent the tan from fading, wait at least 24 hours after applying the fake tan before showering or exercising.
Use a gentle cleanser and cool water to wash off the tan, and avoid exfoliating or shaving too frequently.
Apply a moisturiser after showering to help keep your skin moisturised and hydrated.

Prolonging Your Fake Tan

Maintain your tan with gentle exfoliation and moisturising to prevent the tan from fading.
Boost your sun-kissed glow with a gradual tan body lotion or tanning drops, which will keep your skin hydrated and moisturised.
Avoid using products that contain anti-acne or anti-ageing ingredients, which can strip away your tan.

Removing Fake Tan

Removing All Traces of Tan

Remove all traces of tan before reapplying to get a clean canvas for your fresh tan.
Use a remover mousse and/or tan-removing mitt to remove the tan, and exfoliate gently to create a smooth, soft base with no dead skin cells.
Moisturise your skin after removing the tan to keep it hydrated and moisturised.