Should you exfoliate before or after tanning?

Author: Dr. Francisco Wisozk  |  Last update: Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Exfoliating the skin helps clean, unclog pores, and prevent outbreaks. Dead skin cells can be eliminated from your skin, and a great base for the tanning solution is created by exfoliating before tanning.

Is it better to exfoliate before or after tanning?

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 tan the same day you exfoliate?

Moisturise and exfoliate 24 hours before applying tan for best results. Do not moisturise on the day of tanning. Note: if you are shaving or plan on doing some other form of hair removal, make sure you also do this 24 hours before tan application.

What happens if you exfoliate before a tan?

Exfoliate and shave 24 hours before tanning

Regular exfoliation helps remove dead, dull cells, helps smooth your skin, and provides a more even base for your tan. For your body, you can use a body scrub or lather up with a loofah. Be sure to pay extra close attention to rougher areas, like your elbows and knees.

Do you shave or exfoliate first before tanning?

shaving is technically a form of exfoliation so exfoliating and shaving the day before tanning is the way to do it.

The Only Skincare Products You Actually Need

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.

Is it better to shave first or exfoliate first?

The quick answer is yes, according to the Cleveland Clinic. 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.

What to do before tanning?

It's recommended to shower prior to a tanning session to ensure clean skin that is free of makeup, perfumes and deodorant, all of which can negatively affect the quality of your tan. During the shower, make sure to exfoliate in order to remove dead skin cells so that the clean skin underneath is ready for the UV.

Can I shave 2 hours before spray tan?

Shave or wax at least 24 hours before your spray tan for the best results.

Should I moisturize before a tan?

The short answer: be sure to moisturise 24/48 hours before you plan to fake tan. This ensures that your skin is in the very best condition it can be before a fresh layer of fake tan, as well as exfoliating and removing any unwanted hair of course. Any later than this could mean an uneven final result.

Does exfoliating prolong a tan?

Light exfoliation:

In instantaneous results, sometimes it may seem that way, but the truth is the thickened layer of dead cells, dust and pollution needs to be removed to prevent dullness. It also allows creams and serums to better penetrate, which helps the tan to stay longer.

Is 6 hours enough for tan to develop?

For a deeper glow, we recommend letting your tan develop for 6-8 hours.

How to get the best tan?

10 Top Tips For A Gorgeous Long-Lasting Sun Tan
  1. Moisturise. Hydrated skin will not only tan better but will also keep its colour for longer. ...
  2. Avoid dry skin. ...
  3. Exfoliate. ...
  4. Sun cream. ...
  5. And more sun cream! ...
  6. Prior application. ...
  7. Shady times. ...
  8. An early start.

How long to wait between exfoliating and self tanning?

Instead, exfoliate or shave a day or two before application. In addition, remember to moisturize in the days leading up to your self-tanner application so your skin is soft and evenly hydrated.

How to get a darker tan on sunbeds?

How To Tan Quicker On Sunbeds
  1. Prepare Your Skin. Exfoliate Before Your Session. ...
  2. Adjust Your Tanning Time. Start with a Shorter Session. ...
  3. Use The Sunbed Correctly. Rotate Your Position. ...
  4. Maintain A Healthy Diet. Get The Right Nutrients. ...
  5. Avoid Things With Negative Effects. Remove Makeup and Cosmetics.

Should you exfoliate your body wet or dry?

The effectiveness of these treatments varies depending on the type of exfoliant used. For a scrub with granules, it is recommended to apply it on damp skin to fully benefit from its properties. As for chemical exfoliants such as peels, their effectiveness is generally optimal when applied to dry skin.

What is the black stuff when I rub my skin?

The “black stuff” when you rub your skin is nothing but dead cells, dirt and surface grime. It comes off due to friction caused by rubbing your skin.

What is the golden rule of tanning?

The professional indoor tanning industry promotes and teaches what we refer to as The Golden Rule of Smart Tanning: Don't ever sunburn. The indoor tanning industry has been more effective at teaching sunburn prevention than those who promote complete sun avoidance.

How do I prepare my body for tanning?

Preparing for your tanning bed
  1. Shower, exfoliate, and shave before your session. Use our Exfoliating Mitt for smooth, soft skin.
  2. Follow with an oil-free moisturizer, like our Moisturizing Body Lotion right after showering to lock in moisture.
  3. Come to your session with a fresh face and no makeup.

What not to do when tanning?

Avoid wearing make-up, perfume or deodorant on the day of the tanning bed session. That's because these chemicals can negatively impact the even result of the final tan. For the same reason, please don't wear watches or jewellery.

Should I exfoliate in the morning or night?

There are a few general rules to follow, though. 1) It's good to exfoliate at night in order to encourage skin repair while you sleep—but if you use harsh and irritating ingredients like retinol at night, opt for exfoliating in the morning. 2) Watch out for red, irritated skin and little bumps.

Do you exfoliate before or after Nair?

If you're using Nair™ wax, it's a good idea to shower and exfoliate with a loofah or washcloth at least 24 hours before waxing.

Can you exfoliate with a washcloth?

You can use a washcloth, muslin cloth, or a microfiber cloth. Avoid using anything too rough or abrasive, as it can irritate your skin.

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