Is it better to moisturize before or after fake tanning?

Author: Herman Strosin IV  |  Last update: Tuesday, September 9, 2025

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.

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 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.

How do you prepare your skin for fake tan?

Here's the ultimate five-step skin prep routine that will majorly improve your fake tan game.
  1. STEP ONE: EXFOLIATE. We all want our fake tan to look believable, but the most tell-tale sign of an at-home job is patchiness. ...
  2. STEP TWO: MOISTURISE. ...
  3. STEP THREE: CLEANSE. ...
  4. STEP FOUR: MOISTURISE AGAIN. ...
  5. STEP FIVE: REFRESH.

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.

Moisturizing Before Self Tanning

Do you tan better if you moisturize?

Hydrated skin will not only tan better but will also keep its colour for longer. Moisturise your skin twice daily to prepare your skin for the sunshine and get that long-lasting tan. Dry skin can lead to a peeling and uneven sun tan and so is effectively the enemy.

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.

How to get the best results when fake tanning?

Ultimate Beginners Guide to Fake Tanning
  1. Prepping your skin for fake tan. ...
  2. Moisturise dry areas before fake tan application. ...
  3. Use a tanning mitt. ...
  4. Check your handiwork in a mirror. ...
  5. Don't forget your face. ...
  6. Wear loose clothing while it dries. ...
  7. Moisturise every day after your tan.

Should I moisturize before spray tan?

Also, make sure to moisturize your skin using a product that is alcohol-free, mineral oil free, and petroleum-free (PLEASE no DOVE, Bath and Body Works or Drugstore brands!) no sooner than 8 hours before your spray tan - the more moisturized your skin is, the longer your spray tan will last!

How long after showering can I fake tan?

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.

What not to do after fake tanning?

AFTER THE TAN

Shower lightly in cold – lukewarm water for 45 seconds ONLY after your desired development time. Use plain water, don't use shower gels, scrubs, shampoos or loofah during the first 24 hours after your treatment. Pat your skin dry. Do not rub or scrub your skin.

What is the best moisturizer before self-tanning?

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.

Is it better to tan with or without lotion?

The Short Answer is YES!!

Indoor tanning lotions protect and nourish your skin for a better and longer lasting tan. Not only will using them make you reach a glowing color faster and easier, but they will also improve your skin's health overall.

Does moisturizing make fake tan last longer?

Yes! Moisturising is key to a long-lasting, streak-free tan. Moisturise daily post-tanning to lock in hydration and leave your skin buttery smooth.

How to make fake tan develop faster?

Use a hairdryer. Once you have the perfect coverage, grab your hairdryer to help it set. Be sure it's blowing cool air and move it along your body. Not only will this help the solution dry faster, but it'll also help to kick the tanning development process into overdrive.

What is the best moisturiser for fake tan?

Best moisturizers for a long lasting spray tan
  1. Cetaphil Moisturising Cream. Shop the Cetaphil moisturising cream. ...
  2. E45 Dermatological Moisturising Lotion. Shop E45 moisturising lotion. ...
  3. Vaseline Intensive Care Body Lotion. Shop Vaseline Advanced Repair moisturiser. ...
  4. Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk.

Should I moisturize before fake tanning?

You should definitely moisturize before getting a spray on tan, but not too close to your appointment. Scented products like lotions, creams, perfumes, and even deodorants can affect how your spray tan adheres to your skin.

How do I get the best results from a spray tan?

Remember, a great spray tan starts with great preparation. So exfoliate, moisturize, dress wisely, and keep your skin product-free on the day of your session. Once you've got your gorgeous glow, take good care of it. Avoid sweating, stay hydrated, moisturize generously, and resist the urge to take hot showers.

What to do before fake tanning?

Before applying fake tan it's vitally important to have clean skin. By making sure you have a relaxing bath or shower with some of your favourite spa products and using a good cleanser on your face you will make sure you have thoroughly eliminated all residual dust and dirt as well as dead skin cells.

How to get flawless fake tan?

The Ultimate Fake Tan Routine
  1. 1) Moisturise. One week before. ...
  2. 2) Shave. 24 hours before. ...
  3. 3) Scrub. 24 hours before. ...
  4. 4) Moisturise. 24 hours before. ...
  5. 5) Cold shower. Immediately before. ...
  6. 6) Apply the tan. It's the moment you've all been waiting for – it's finally time to tan. ...
  7. 7) Allow to develop. ...
  8. 8) Wash it off.

How can I maximize my tanning results?

Master Tanning 101: How To Take Your Tanning To The Next Level
  1. Shower and Exfoliate.
  2. Avoid lotions, deodorant, makeup or oil based based products and perfume.
  3. Shave 24 hours before appointment.
  4. Wear loose-fitting clothing.
  5. Avoid water or excessive sweating for 4-6 hours.

Can you moisturize before spray tan?

Moisturise heavily the evening prior to your appointment to rehydrate your skin. Applying extra attention to any dry areas. This will be the last time you use moisturiser until 24 hours after your spray tan appointment. DO NOT use moisturiser on your skin again prior to your spray tan appointment.

Is it better to moisturize before or after 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.

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.

Previous article
Is it really necessary to use blush?
Next article
Can genetics make it harder to lose weight?