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Step 1
Reflect on your skin preparation before applying your self-tanner. If you skipped exfoliating and moisturizing before application, you can expect your tan to slough off faster than if you had thoroughly prepared your skin for the tan. If you did give your skin a good scrub and lotion application before applying your self-tanner, you can expect your tan to last several days longer than if you didn't.
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Step 2
Consider your routine after application. Did you get dressed before your self-tanner was completely dry? Did you shower soon after applying? Did you shave your legs the same night you applied your sunless tanning lotion? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it is possible that you compromised the longevity of your fake tan. In the future, let your skin dry completely after applying, and keep it dry as long as possible to maintain your tan for a week or more.
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Step 3
Remember to moisturize. Even if you have not done everything correctly from the start, maintain your tan with daily moisturizing to slow down its fading. Sunless tans last only as long as the outer layer of skin they color. As this skin sheds, so does the tan. Using plenty of moisturizer helps keep the skin hydrated and slows down the loss of skin through dryness and flaking, thus extending the life of your self-tanner for a few more days.
