Just like when tanning the rest of your body, we recommend exfoliating your face the day before application. This removes any dead skin cells, leaving your skin silky smooth. Follow with your favourite moisturiser to stop your skin feeling dry. When you're ready to apply your
In the same way that you'd prepare your body for tan application 24 hours in advance, you should prepare your face too. A day before tanning, exfoliate with a gentle, oil-free face scrub to smooth away rough, dry patches. Focus on areas that are prone to dryness, like the cheeks and around the nose.
To avoid patchy tan, we suggest applying a light layer of moisturiser to dry areas, like the Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion, prior to applying the tan. This will create a slight barrier between your skin and the product, so that these areas remain perfectly tanned without appearing blotchy and uneven.
TIP #1 - PREP YOUR SKIN
Take time to exfoliate so that your skin will be more than ready to get exposed to the rays in a tanning bed. Apply a moisturiser after you shower to ensure your skin is not dry prior to your sunbed session. Remove any make up or deodorant to ensure you achieve an even tan.
The skin on your face is far more sensitive than the skin on your body and so it makes sense that it would need an entirely different formula. Facial skin doesn't tan in the same way as the body – it tends to go a little bit darker because of its higher pH.
Leading up to the tanning bed session, moisturise your skin daily. Right before your session, exfoliate your skin thoroughly. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Check with your doctor first if you are on medication, as certain medications can react with UV.
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.
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.
Why Moisturizing at Night is Crucial. Do you feel a moisturizer is an unnecessary step in your night routine? Trust us, it's critical. While you sleep, your skin naturally loses moisture, leading to a dull, rough, and dry appearance, so applying an extra effort or reinforcing the humidity before going to bed is key.
Rub a small amount over your face in gentle, circular movements using an Application Mitt. To really nail that natural look, grab a blending brush and buff the product into your skin. Pay extra attention to the area around your hairline and jaw where harsh lines could appear.
You'll want to shower, shave and exfoliate at least a day before your tan (preferably two!). We recommend using our Premier Collection® body washes as the perfect pre-tan prep. Exfoliating is especially important. If you don't have time for a deep exfoliation, using a loofah, brush or bath puff will work just fine.
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.
Apply tanning lotion just before
If you don't have your own, ask your tanning bed provider if they have any available for purchase. Here at Formula One Gym, we provide sachets and bottles of tanning lotion to suit all skin types and will even provide friendly advice on the most suitable lotion for you.
☀️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 .
You don't necessarily tan faster in water or laying out. This is because water reflects UV rays, so you may not be getting as much exposure as you think if you're actually in the pool.
Avoid using harsh or fragranced products immediately after tanning, as they may further irritate the skin.
Lie down tanning beds may be a better option for beginners as they provide a more relaxing introduction to indoor tanning. However, stand-up beds can also be preferred for those who want a quick, even tan without pressure points.
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.