Can you exfoliate and tan on the same day?

Author: Dr. Keith West  |  Last update: Monday, April 7, 2025

Our preference is a heavy exfoliation the day before tanning, with a lighter one the day of your tanning session. If you prefer to do your heavy exfoliation the day-of, leave at least 3 hours before applying tanner to let your skin settle. Do not apply moisturizer prior to tanning unless you have dry skin.

How long after exfoliating should you wait to tan?

Wait Before Tanning: Give your skin some time to rest after exfoliating (about 24 hours) before applying tanning products for the best results. Exfoliating after tanning is generally not recommended, as it can strip away the tan and lead to uneven fading.

What happens if you exfoliate right before a tan?

You should exfoliate before tanning. Exfoliating your skin helps remove dead skin cells, allowing for a more even and longer-lasting tan. It also helps prevent patchiness and ensures that the tanning product adheres properly to your skin.

Can you self tan right after shaving and exfoliating?

If you are shaving, you need to shave 24 hours before any fake tan application. If for whatever reason you cannot do that, finish with cold water after shaving to close your pores. Have you ever had brown spots get stuck in your pores? This is from shaving or exfoliating right before a fake tan. Don't do this.

Will my real tan come off if I exfoliate?

Yes, regular exfoliation can help in tan removal. Exfoliating the skin helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can contribute to the fading of tan and the brightening of the skin.

How to exfoliate | who needs it| who should avoid | Dermatologist explains

Should you fake tan straight after exfoliating?

1. Exfoliate 24 hours before. It's important to exfoliate 24 hours prior to tanning. This will remove any dead skin and create the perfect base for your tan application.

Can I tan the same day I shave?

Shaving exfoliates the skin, leaving it supple and ready for bronzing, so it should be done before self-tanner is applied, just not right before since shaving can open pores and create cuts. Prevent irritation and schedule shaving or waxing at least a few hours before you plan to apply tanner.

How to fix patchy tan without taking it off?

Exfoliate the skin

Another way to fix patchy fake tan is with an exfoliator, as gently scrubbing the skin will tone down the colour. Massage our Tan Enhancing Body Polish and Exfoliator onto the streaky areas until the pigment has faded. Top Tip: The key to an even-looking tan is smooth skin.

Can I tan with hairy legs?

Spray tanning with hairy legs is absolutely your personal choice. However, bear in mind, excessive hair can hinder an even tan. It's recommended to remove unwanted body hair before the session for better results.

How long after showering can I self tan?

We know, we know — this seems totally obvious. But after showering, towel off and wait 10 minutes until you're 100 percent dry. "Your skin has to be completely dry," Evans tells Allure. "Water left on the skin will cause a big problem as water will erase and dilute the tan resulting into dreaded streaks and patches."

Does showering after tanning in the sun affect your tan?

After tanning, you will produce a little bit of sweat, but that's it. There is no reason to shower right away because water does not affect the tan. This is another myth that has been around for ages. The truth is, showering right after getting a tan will not cause staining of your skin.

Can I exfoliate after being in the sun?

After Sun Exposure

If your next step is to rinse off before slipping into your best evening outfit, opt for a shower oil or a shower gel like the one from our Océane range, to easily remove the protective mineral filters. Avoid exfoliating, especially if your skin is overheated or if it is peeling after a sunburn.

What happens if you exfoliate and tan on the same day?

Something will happen. You'll get a blotchy-looking bronze. But you can solve this problem in three ways: stick to an alternating schedule of self-tanning and acne upkeep, try one product that doubles as an exfoliator and a self-tanner, or bronze yourself with makeup.

How to get best self tan results?

Follow these steps:
  1. Exfoliate. Use a washcloth to exfoliate the skin prior to applying a self-tanner. ...
  2. Dry your skin. ...
  3. Apply in sections. ...
  4. Wash your hands after each section. ...
  5. Blend at your wrists and ankles. ...
  6. Dilute over your joints. ...
  7. Give your skin time to dry. ...
  8. Apply sunscreen every day.

Do I shave or exfoliate first?

You should exfoliate your skin prior to shaving, as exfoliating first can help prevent the razor from becoming clogged with dead skin cells (which can reduce its effectiveness). In other words, exfoliating first is a serious pro tip for a closer shave.

Can I put new tan over old tan?

Add a layer of radiance

A single application can extend your colour for a few more days and balance out an uneven fade off. Once your special event is over, allow your tan to fade away in full and exfoliate your skin a day before your next spray tan. This creates the perfect base for a new application of tanner.

How to avoid white armpits when tanning?

White armpits are a common self-tanning problem. To avoid those unsightly white patches, start by shaving your underarms a day before applying self-tanner to allow your skin to heal.

What is the best self tan remover?

TANOLOGIST
  • ROSE & CARAMEL | Purity Excel 60 Second Self Tan Removing Scrub. Apply this fake tan remover to dry skin, leave it for about five minutes, and then wash off. ...
  • SKINNY TAN | Miracle Tan Eraser. ...
  • ISLE OF PARADISE | Over It Magic Self-Tan Eraser. ...
  • BONDI SANDS | Self Tan Eraser. ...
  • TANOLOGIST | Self Tan Eraser + Primer.

How long before tanning should you exfoliate?

One of the best ways to ensure your tan stays glowing for longer is to exfoliate at least 24 hours prior to tanning, getting rid of any dry or flaky skin for the perfect base and flawless results.

How do you close your pores after shaving?

The cold water will help close the pores and reduce skin inflammation. If you have time, you can soak a towel in cold water and place it on your face for a few minutes for even better results so you won't use the fateful phrase, "I get pimples after shaving" again.

Is it better to shave before or after a shower?

Shaving after showering

This is because the hot shower water cleanses your skin: the steam opens up your pores, flushing out the dirt that has accumulated since your last shower, and causes your hair follicles to soften - making it easier for you to enjoy a closer, more comfortable shave, with fewer passes.

Is 30 minutes a day in sun enough to tan?

Is 30 minutes a day enough to tan? It depends on your skin type. Those with fair skin likely need a bit longer, while people with darker skin may only require 15-20 minutes daily. Start slow and gently build UV skin tolerance over multiple sessions for the best color development.

What is the best tan accelerator?

  • Calypso Monoi Tahiti Bronzing Tanning Oil SPF15. ...
  • Pro Tan Beaches and Creme All-In Intensifying Serum (250ml) ...
  • ultrasun SPF30 Tan Activator Body 150ml , Pack of 1. ...
  • Power Tan Non-Stop Black Tingle Gelee (DHA Free) Hybrid UV Sunbed Tanning Accelerator Lotion 250ml.

Does baby oil help tan?

Why Is Baby Oil Used For Tanning? Many people tan with baby oil because it can make your skin tan more quickly. The reason for this quicker tan is because baby oil helps attract and absorb UV rays, says Farber. The problem, and this is a big one, is that baby oil doesn't offer sun protection.

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