Arguably the most important tip for achieving the perfect fake tan is to thoroughly prep your skin, starting with hair removal and exfoliation. Investing a little time and effort in priming your body to apply fake tan will pay off tenfold in terms of the final results and longevity of your tan.
The first step is hair removal. Shaving and waxing can cause irritation, so the last thing you want to do is apply a fresh layer of fake tan over the top and risk it looking like a rash of small brown dots in your pores. Instead, shave your legs the day before you plan on applying your fake tan to give your skin time to recover between prep and application. If waxing, then we suggest a minimum of 48 hours before tan application for best results.
Next up is exfoliating. Exfoliate your skin either the night before, or the morning of tanning your skin. Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells[1], creating a smooth, fresh base for your tan. It’s important to use an exfoliator that won’t leave behind any residue on your skin, as this will compromise your fake tan application. Stick to something oil-free like theCetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser, and apply it with an exfoliating tool, like a glove, pad, or brush. If you have sensitive skin, the cleanser alone will suffice. Exfoliating is important for both body and face, so don’t forget to prime your face if you’re planning on tanning it too. TheCetaphil Face Daily Exfoliating Cleanseris formulated with exfoliating beads to gently buff away dry skin. Once you’ve primed your skin, it’s important to leave it clean and clear before applying your fake tan — that means no moisturiser, deodorant, or perfume!
