How to Prepare Your Skin Before Tanning

Hello gorgeous! Jessie-Lee here, your tanning expert from MEGATAN. We all dream of a beautiful, even, and long-lasting tan, right? But the secret to achieving that isn't just in the tanning lotion you choose or the sunbed you use; it's in the preparation! Think of your skin as a canvas – the better prepared it is, the more stunning the final masterpiece (your tan!) will be. Let's dive into the ultimate pre-tan routine that will have your skin thanking you and your tan glowing like never before.

Why Pre-Tan Preparation is Non-Negotiable

You might be wondering, 'Is all this effort really necessary?' And my answer is a resounding YES! Proper preparation before any tanning session – whether it's on a sunbed, with self-tan, or even sunbathing – makes a huge difference. It helps to:

• Ensure an even, streak-free tan by removing dead skin cells.
• Maximise tan longevity by creating a healthy skin surface.
• Promote deeper colour development as active ingredients can penetrate better.
• Keep your skin healthy and hydrated, which is crucial for a golden glow.
• Prevent patchiness and uneven fading.

Step 1: Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate!

This is arguably the most critical step in your pre-tan routine. Our skin naturally sheds dead skin cells, but sometimes they hang around, creating a dull, uneven surface. Tanning over these dead cells means your tan will cling to them and fade quickly as they flake off, leading to a patchy result. Exfoliating sloughs away these old cells, revealing fresh, new skin that's ready to absorb your tanning lotion evenly.

How to do it: Use a gentle body scrub or an exfoliating mitt about 24 hours before your tanning session. Focus on drier areas like elbows, knees, ankles, and any areas where skin tends to be rougher. Avoid harsh scrubs that contain oils, as these can leave a residue on the skin that might block tanning lotion absorption. A good, oil-free scrub or just a loofah with your regular shower gel will do the trick. Don't forget to give your face a gentle exfoliation too!

Step 2: Hair Removal (If You Do It)

If you wax or shave, do this at least 24 hours before you plan to tan. Shaving too close to your session can irritate the skin and leave pores open, which can lead to tiny tan dots – not ideal! Waxing also needs time for the skin to calm down. Giving your skin a day to recover after hair removal ensures it's smooth and ready for an even tan application without irritation.

Step 3: Hydrate from Within and Without

Healthy skin is hydrated skin, and hydrated skin tans better and holds colour longer. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your tan – hydration starts from the inside out! Externally, moisturising is key, but timing is everything.

After exfoliation (24 hours before your tan), apply a rich, hydrating moisturiser all over your body. This will nourish and soften your fresh skin. However, on the day of your tan, avoid applying any heavy moisturisers, oils, perfumes, or deodorants right before your session. These can create a barrier on the skin, preventing your tanning accelerator from working its magic properly and potentially causing streaks or an uneven tan. If you must moisturise, use a very light, oil-free lotion sparingly on particularly dry spots.

Step 4: Choose Your Tanning Accelerator Wisely

This is where MEGATAN comes in! A good tanning accelerator isn't just about speeding up your tan; it's packed with skin-loving ingredients that condition your skin, helping it to achieve a deeper, more even, and longer-lasting colour. Applying your accelerator just before your sunbed session is crucial.

For a gorgeous natural glow, consider something like the Power Tan Non-Stop Black Bronzing Butter (DHA Free) Hybrid UV Sunbed Tanning Accelerator for £20. It's DHA-free and uses exclusive bronzing agents and emollients for a streak-free, natural-looking tan. If you're after a bit of a kick and a deeper colour, the ProTan Beaches & Créme Sizzling Butter at £15.97 offers a tingling sensation and intense skin nourishment. Or for those who love a hot bronzing experience, Synergy Tan Cherry Me Black Bronzing Accelerator for £22 includes a sunless tanning component and a delightful cherry scent.

Don't forget your face! The skin on your face is more delicate and often tans differently. A dedicated facial tanning accelerator like Power Tan Outer Dark Face Maximiser for £12.49 is a fantastic choice. It's bronzer-free, hydrating, and helps develop a natural facial colour while soothing delicate skin.

Step 5: Patch Test and Sun Protection (for Outdoor Tanning)

Always, always patch test any new product, especially if you have sensitive skin. Apply a small amount to an inconspicuous area (like behind your ear or inner arm) 24 hours beforehand to check for any adverse reactions.

If you're tanning outdoors, remember that tanning accelerators do NOT contain SPF unless explicitly stated. You MUST use appropriate sun protection. For example, Malibu Clear All Day Protection Spray SPF 20 for £8.99 offers broad-spectrum protection and is water-resistant, making it a great companion for outdoor tanning sessions. Safety first, always!

Your Pre-Tan Checklist: A Quick Recap

• 24-48 hours before: Exfoliate thoroughly (oil-free scrub or mitt).
• 24-48 hours before: Perform any hair removal (shaving or waxing).
• 24 hours before: Hydrate skin with a good moisturiser (but not immediately before tanning).
• Day of tan: Shower, but avoid heavy moisturisers, oils, perfumes, or deodorants.
• Just before tan: Apply your chosen indoor tanning accelerator evenly.
• Always: Patch test new products.
• Outdoor tanning: Apply a separate SPF product.

By following these simple yet effective steps, you're not just preparing your skin; you're setting yourself up for the most radiant, even, and long-lasting tan imaginable. Your skin will be smooth, hydrated, and perfectly primed to soak up all the goodness from your chosen tanning product. Get ready to glow, darling!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I exfoliate on the same day as my tanning session? A: It's best to exfoliate 24 hours before your tanning session. This gives your skin time to calm down and for your pores to close, ensuring a smoother and more even tan application.

Q: What kind of exfoliator should I use? A: Opt for an oil-free body scrub or an exfoliating mitt. Avoid scrubs with heavy oils as they can leave a residue that might interfere with your tanning lotion's absorption and cause streaks.

Q: Should I moisturise right before my sunbed session? A: No, avoid applying heavy moisturisers, oils, perfumes, or deodorants immediately before your sunbed session. These can create a barrier on your skin and prevent your tanning accelerator from working effectively. Moisturise 24 hours prior, but keep skin clean and clear on tanning day.

Q: Do tanning accelerators contain SPF? A: Generally, no. Most indoor tanning accelerators do not contain SPF. If you are tanning outdoors, you must apply a separate SPF product like Malibu Clear All Day Protection Spray SPF 20 to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Q: How do I make my tan last longer? A: The best way to make your tan last is by properly preparing your skin beforehand (as outlined in this guide!) and by keeping your skin well-hydrated after your tan. Use a good quality tan extender or a rich moisturiser daily, and avoid harsh soaps or excessive exfoliation. Products like Seven Suns Bronze Delight Tanning Pudding or Soleo Sexy Carrot Bronzer can help maintain and deepen your colour.