Exfoliate: This step is essential because exfoliation removes dead skin cells, which not only can block UV rays but also cause your tan to appear patchy as it sheds. Always look for exfoliators that are based on a non-abrasive formula and give your skin a thorough exfoliation a day before your tanning session.
If you tan dead, dry skin which will eventually flake off you are wasting your time and possibly your money as well if you go to a tanning salon, therefore you should always clean, exfoliate and moisturize your skin before tanning.
PREPARE YOUR SKIN:
To achieve an even and long-lasting tan, it's important to properly prepare your skin before each sunbed session: Exfoliation: Gently exfoliate your skin a day or two before your session to remove dead skin cells.
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. Here are some tips for effective exfoliation before tanning:
Exfoliate - Like with self tanning, before embarking on your journey to your summer glow, dry skin has got to go. Exfoliating unclogs pores, filters toxins and may combat cellulite. Exfoliating also removes dead skin cells, which prevents uneven skin tone and helps to make your skin a balanced tanning canvas.
By creating a smooth surface, you allow the spray tan to adhere more evenly, resulting in a more natural, long-lasting tan. Aim to exfoliate at least 12-24 hours prior to your appointment for the best results.
You must come to the rescue with a good moisturizer. Moisture is critical to good skin health because it helps maintain a good skin barrier and creates a flexible, pliable skin that is soft to touch. Moist skin will tan better and more evenly than dry skin.
Tanning lotions are fantastic for gliding across smooth skin but can be trickier to blend into a hairy chest, legs and arms. We recommend you opt for a tanning spray or mousse instead because the lighter texture is easier to buff into the skin even when applied over hairy areas.
For a deeper glow, we recommend letting your tan develop for 6-8 hours.
☀️Tanning Tip Tuesday☀️ How to avoid the “bunny tail” or white spots on lower back or under your arms or sides: ✅ when using a lay down bed always reposition your body every few minutes to achieve an even tan. Switch from side to side and rest your arms behind your head .
Sunbeds give off UV rays that can be to fifteen times stronger than the midday Mediterranean sun. What sunbeds can do is cause your skin to sag and wrinkle.
Exfoliating first is an absolute must. Self tanner tends to cling to dry skin, creating that uneven patchy look (source).
Depending on your skin color, in general the average person can develop a base tan in 3-5 sessions which then can be maintained with regular sunbed use. Two sessions a week should be enough to further deepen your tan in a safe and gentle manner.
Generally, with consistent and safe sun exposure, you can start seeing results within a few hours to days. For those leaning towards sunbeds, you might notice a difference after 2-3 sessions if starting from a light base, or 3-5 sessions for a deeper 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.
Recommended Frequency of Tanning Bed Use
Each session should be brief, around 3-10 minutes, depending on your skin type. After the initial week, if your skin is responding well (no burns or excessive redness), you can gradually increase your sessions to three to four times per week.
Shave. It'd be a shame to spend money at a tanning salon just to shave after and have the color flake off. Some leg or arm hair won't stop the UV rays of a tanning bed from sticking to your skin, so this step isn't a necessity unless you're headed for a night on the town later and need smooth legs.
To keep the drier areas from going patchy, make sure you moisturise all over and pay extra special attention to these troublesome areas. Try to leave the moisturiser to sink in for at least half an hour before you start the application stage of your fake tan routine.
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.
Papaya: Like carrots, orange fruits and vegetables, such as papaya, help to enhance your tan naturally thanks to its high beta-carotene levels. Melon: This refreshing fruit, rich in antioxidants and beta-carotenes will help you to keep your golden skin tone.