How Long Does Fake Tan Take to Dry?

Pre-Tanning Preparation

Exfoliate to Remove Dead Skin Cells

To achieve the best results from your chosen self-tanner, exfoliate your skin at least 24 hours before application to create a smooth canvas for the tan to adhere to!

Exfoliating the skin will remove dead skin cells and prevent the self-tanner from clinging to dry areas.

Use a gentle exfoliator along with an exfoliating mitt or gloves to even out your skin tone and prevent the fake tan from streaking.

On the day of exfoliating, pay extra attention to dry areas like the elbows, knees, ankles, and feet.

Remove Hair and Avoid Deodorants

Remove body hair 24 hours before applying fake tan to prevent uneven finish and dark spots.

Avoid using deodorant and perfume before applying fake tan to prevent a sticky layer from forming on the skin's surface and causing the fake tan to change colour.

Apply a moisturiser that is gentle and fragrance-free.

Choosing the Right Self Tanner

Select a Self Tanner for Your Skin Type

When selecting a self-tanner, consider which product will work best and suit your skin tone and type. Also, consider if your skin has any concerns, such as dryness or sensitivity, to prevent irritation.

Select a tanner that matches your desired finish, whether a subtle glow or a deeper tan!

Application and Drying

Apply Fake Tan Correctly

To prevent streaks and an uneven finish, use a tanning applicator mitt to apply your fake tan product.

Use a gentle, non-abrasive mitt that is easy to clean and maintain. Ensure your mitt is cleaned after each application and let it air dry.

One of my best fake tan tips is to apply fake tan on a tanning mitt, applying it to the skin in small sections and rubbing it in circular motions, starting with the upper body and working your way down to the bottom, to ensure an even application.

Allow Your Tan to Dry

Allow your tan to dry thoroughly before dressing or applying a moisturiser for the perfect tan. Let the skin air dry, or use a fan to speed up the drying process.

Avoid rubbing or stretching your skin after applying fake tan to prevent streaks.

After tanning, wear loose-fitting dark-coloured clothing to prevent any streaks or staining.

Spray Tan Tips

Consider a Spray Tan for a Professional Finish

Consider getting a spray tan for a professional, even finish.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Moisturise to Maintain Your Tan

Moisturise your skin regularly to maintain your fake tan and prevent it from fading quickly.

Use a hydrating moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and supple. Moisturising the skin daily will help the tan fade naturally rather than in patches.

Apply moisturiser, paying particular attention to dry areas like elbows, knees, ankles, and feet.

Top Tanning Tip: Use tanning drops in your daily moisturiser to keep your tanned topped up. Add a few drops to your preferred moisturiser and mix in. You can use tanning drops all year round for a natural glow.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Common Issues and Solutions

If you experience a streaky tan, gently buff away streaks with an exfoliating scrub.

If your tan fades too quickly, use a gradual tan product to maintain your color.

Use a soft body polish daily to help your skin absorb your moisturiser, keeping it looking fresh and maintaining your bronzed glow.

If you experience dry skin, use a rich but non-greasy body moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated.

Removing Fake Tan

How to Remove Fake Tan

Do you need to remove your fake tan but don't know how? Don't worry—with our tips, you can do it efficiently and quickly.

• Use a remover mousse and/or tan-removing mitt to remove fake tan.
• Apply remover mousse to clean dry skin and massage it before rinsing it off.
• Exfoliate regularly to gradually fade your tan and prevent streaks.

Check out our latest blog here  for a more in-depth look at fake tan removal.