Whether using a mousse to tan yourself or going to a salon to get a professional spray tan, the routine of preparing your skin for a long lasting, glowing tan does not change.
For a perfect summer glow, a few steps are involved when it comes to prepping your skin. Following the steps are important if you want a streak-free, even tan.
DAY BEFORE YOUR TAN
EXFOLIATE
Exfoliating is the first and one of the most important steps when it comes to preparing your body for a tan. Exfoliation removes old skin cells on the body. The old skin cells can leave the skin dry and rough.
After exfoliating, a fresh new layer of cells is exposed leaving your skin looking renewed and fresh. These cells leave a consistent surface on your body - perfect for an even, streak-free tan.
SHAVE
To avoid having to shave your legs only a couple of days into having a glowing tan, shave the day before or approximately 12 hours before tanning. Although this is not a crucial step when preparing for a tan (you can still get a tan if you haven’t shaved), it does have its advantages. Shaving makes the tanning process easier if you are self-tanning with a self-tan mitt, and also can prolong your tan as you won’t need to shave over the top of a fresh tan after only a day or two.
DAY OF YOUR TAN
REMOVE ALL BODY PRODUCTS & MAKEUP
Removing all deodorants, perfumes, lotions, moisturisers, makeup and jewellery will ensure your tan turns out perfectly. Wearing deodorant while tanning can make your underarms turn a green colour. Other skin products act as barriers and block the tanning solution from absorbing into the skin. These products include lotion/ moisturiser, makeup and any jewellery you may be wearing. If these products are left on the body, the tan may not result as an even, streak free finish - it would not have been able to absorb properly. This step in preparing your skin for a tan should be completed just before self-tanning or going to a salon to get a spray tan.
After this step is completed it is recommended you wear LOOSE, DARK clothing to your tanning appointment so after the tan is completed no lines appear on your body from tight pants or t-shirts rubbing the tan.
If you follow these steps for prepping your skin you will be in for a perfect summer tan that you can maintain and re-apply all year round!
