Before applying self-tanner, it's important to prep your skin adequately. A key step to an excellent faux tan (that lasts!) is exfoliation. "Before applying faux tanner, your skin should be completely clean, dry, and exfoliated to remove any dead, dry skin," says Samantha Magill of Tournesol Beauty.
Apply Moisturizer Before Tanner
After exfoliating your body, continue the prepping process by applying a moisturizer. You shouldn't apply self-tanner without moisturizing first, because skipping out on this prep step could potentially leave you with patchy color — this goes for your face and the rest of your body.
If you're wondering when the optimal time is to shave before applying self-tanner, we suggest aiming for approximately 24 hours before.
Can I Spray 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.
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.
LOTIONS Avoid any oils or lotions that use mineral oil (petroleum), baby oil, coconut oil, and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (which is found in most body washes). I have found the best lotions to use are Aveeno, Cetaphil, Hempz, and CeraVe. Lotions with perfumes contain high alcohol levels and tend to dry out the skin.
It is important not to wear tight clothing after applying fake tan as this can cause your tan to rub off or cause marks. This can make self-tanning in the morning more difficult as you must wear dark, loose clothing to avoid any transfer and you can't use deodorant or perfume.
A thorough exfoliation is essential for a streak-free, lasting tan. For best results, slough off dry, dead skin cells with an exfoliating mitt or body scrub 12-24 hours before – paying special attention to dry areas like your knees and elbows.
Ensure you're applying your preferred product to clean, dry skin after showering and 24 hours post-shaving. Keep your application light and you'll be good to go. Learn more about preparing for your self tan here.
Smooth your face before you apply a fake tan with a facial scrub, such as the Fresh Scrub , enriched with lava beads and willow herb extract. Additionally, the Gentle Peeling Smooth Away Cream is ideal for all skin types; it eliminates dead skin cells and impurities, leaves skin soft and radiant, and ready to tan.
Dhesthetics has 2 recommended body washes to use in the shower to help preserve your tan. Aveevo Daily Moisturizing body wash or Cetaphil Daily Nourishing body wash. All of these body washes have great ingredients in them that will help to preserve not only your tan, but keep your skin healthy.
No, unless you want some tanning mishaps! Please ensure that your glove is dry before using to ensure a perfect application.
To keep your colour where it belongs – on your body – we recommend waiting for around 15 minutes, or until your tan is fully dry, before getting dressed. Even then, it's a good idea to bypass the skinny jeans and tight strappy tops and pop on something loose, dark and comfy until it's time to shower.
Strawberry Skin Treatment
Creams that contain jojoba oil, glycerin, lanolin, or shea butter are especially effective. Apply the cream when your skin is still damp to lock in moisture. Exfoliate with a clean washcloth, loofah, or body scrub. Exfoliating gets rid of dead skin particles that can clog pores.
Alcohol is an astringent, which tightens pores. Some people swear by it as a way to tone and tighten the skin after cleansing. But a word of caution: “Alcohol can be drying, so it isn't the best choice for sensitive or acne-prone skin,” says Dr. Beers.
Citrus fruits: Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are like a vitamin C power-up for your skin. Vitamin C is a superhero here, boosting collagen production and making your pores less noticeable. Plus, these fruits have natural acids that gently exfoliate, keeping your pores clear and happy.