Do you moisturize before or after gradual tan?

Author: Micah Fay  |  Last update: Monday, December 29, 2025

It is essential to use gradual tan products on a sufficiently moisturised skin. As the application of a moisturiser can reduce the fixation of the gradual tan, it is preferable to moisturise the skin the day before.

Is it better to moisturize before or after fake tanning?

Moisturize First: A hydrated skin ensures your tan looks even and lasts longer. After your self-tanner has completely dried and developed, apply a lightweight moisturizer. It not only makes your tan look more radiant but also creates a smooth base for your makeup.

What to do before applying gradual tan?

How to Properly Prep your Skin for Self-Tanning
  • Shower with plain water (no less than four hours prior to your tan), shave and exfoliate.
  • You want to make sure that you schedule any waxing, facial, nail appointments, etc.
  • Come to your spray tan session or prior to self-tanning with clean, dry skin.

Should you moisturize before or after sun tanning?

The initial exposure to UV light can leave your skin a bit shocked, so it's crucial to give it some extra TLC. Hydrate your skin with a good quality, fragrance-free moisturizer right after your session and throughout the next few days. Also, remember to drink plenty of water to hydrate from the inside out.

What do you wear after gradual tanning?

AFTER THE TAN

Wear dark loose clothing; tight clothing or underwear may cause marks. Wear loose fitting shoes.

Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Tanning Mousse

Should I moisturize before gradual tan?

It is essential to use gradual tan products on a sufficiently moisturised skin. As the application of a moisturiser can reduce the fixation of the gradual tan, it is preferable to moisturise the skin the day before.

How to stop gradual tan going patchy?

Gently buff away excess tan

Immediately after applying your chosen tan, use the Mitt to blot away any excess tan by gently rubbing darker patches on the skin. Top Tip: To prevent a patchy tan and product from settling onto dry areas, always moisturise with an oil-free moisturiser just before applying fake tan.

What happens if you don't moisturize before tanning?

Moisturizing creates a smooth, hydrated base that helps your self-tanner glide on evenly. Without it, dry areas of your body—like elbows, knees, and ankles—soak up more product, leaving you with darker, blotchy areas.

What goes first suntan lotion or moisturizer?

When using a physical sunscreen, always know that it must be applied after all other products so that it can create a barrier. Apply physical sunscreens after serums and moisturisers.

Is it better to put lotion on before tanning?

you definitely want to use a tanning lotion prior to tanning! moisturized skin holds a tan for much longer. if you do not use lotion, the rays will bounce off your skin instead of absorbing it! After tanning, lotion is called tan extenders.

Can you mix gradual tan with moisturiser?

After showering, go right ahead and apply your gradual tan. Be sure not to put any products (including deodorants, skin care, oils or moisturisers) on your body before using the gradual tan. You want to start with a clean, dry base. Apply a generous amount of gradual tan to the skin and apply it in circular motions.

How can I make my gradual tan work faster?

For the ultimate glow, use a Body Exfoliator 24 hours before applying self tanner to create the perfect smooth base for your tan. Then, 2 to 3 hours before tanning, treat your skin to a Tan Enhancing Body Moisturiser, paying particular attention to dry areas, such as knees, elbows and hands.

Does Dove gradual tan stain sheets?

It is easily applied, smells gorgeous and most of all, it works. My skin feels soft and the tan starts to work almost instantly. After a few hours i have a natural looking golden tan. It doesn't stain bedding either.

Can you put gradual tan over fake tan?

Our Everyday Gradual Tanning Products build a golden bronze colour gradually over time. Once you've achieved the golden glow you're after, you can apply every 2 - 3 days as needed. It's a great starting point if you're new to self-tan. Otherwise, it's the perfect top-up to your Bondi Sands tan!

Does moisturizer help remove tan?

A moisturizer with a high level (greater than 1 percent of AHAs) will decrease the melanogenesis process, causing your client to lose their tan. Dry, cold winter prevents skin from maintaining a moist healthy condition due to the loss of natural oils, natural moisturizing factors, and vitamins.

What moisturizer is best before tan?

Apply a moisturizer or body butter to shower damp skin. (NOT Curel or Dove – these can ruin tans!) A few good choices would be Shea Moisture, CeraVe, Lubriderm, Vanicream, or Hempz, and some people prefer pure Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Sweet Almond Oil, or Cocoa Butter.

How long to wait between moisturizer and sunscreen?

Generally, waiting for about 5 to 10 minutes allows the moisturiser to absorb into the skin, ensuring that the sunscreen can form a protective barrier. This waiting period also helps prevent any potential interference between the moisturiser and sunscreen.

What is the correct order of skin care products?

The right morning routine will help your skin feel calm and hydrated all day long.
  • Step 1: Cleanser. A clean face is your starting point for a healthy, glowing complexion. ...
  • Step 2: Toner. ...
  • Step 3: Serum. ...
  • Step 4: Moisturizer. ...
  • Step 5: Eye Cream. ...
  • Step 6: Sunscreen.

Should you moisturize before or after fake tan?

Moisturise before fake tan

Avoid using a moisturiser on the day of tanning as this can cause a barrier which affects how the tan absorbs. Instead, only moisturise dry areas such as elbows, knees, ankles and hands. This will prevent the tan from clinging and appearing darker giving a more natural look.

What is the best self-tanner?

After extensive testing, we determined the highest rated self-tanner to be the St. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse. It's an airy mousse that's easy to apply and blend and leaves you with a natural-looking glow. You can also customize the depth of color based on how long you leave it on your skin.

What not to do after fake tanning?

Avoid rubbing, which will essentially exfoliate away your tan and lead to a patchy, uneven finish. Many fake tans can be drying, so be sure to lock in moisturise with a super-hydrating body lotion or cream (more on this later).

How best to apply gradual tan?

How to apply gradual tan
  1. Step 1: Prep the skin. Exfoliate well and moisturise before applying any sort of tanning moisturiser, including gradual tan. ...
  2. Step 2: Reach for your gradual tan. ...
  3. Step 3: Wash your hands. ...
  4. Step 4: Enjoy the glow!

Is gradual tan better than fake tan?

You should choose a gradual self tanner if you prefer a more natural, buildable tan and want to control the intensity of your color over time. Gradual tanners are perfect for people who enjoy daily skincare routines and want a more subtle glow that doesn't appear all at once.

Does Dove gradual tan go patchy?

While gradual tan is more likely to apply and fade evenly, it is still possible for your gradual tan to go patchy. It'll all depend on the quality of the gradual tan you're applying, how much you've prepared your skin before applying gradual tan, and how well you care for your new glow.

Previous article
Why did my microneedling hurt so bad?
Next article
How do you get wind knots out of your hair?