How to Prepare Skin for Self Tanning

If you've decided to self tan instead of exposing yourself to dangerous UV rays, you've made a great choice. Self tanners have come a long way in the last few years, and now produce a beautiful, even tan with no more of that orange mess. But first, you'll need to prep your skin to keep your tan looking natural and to make it last.

Things You'll Need

• Exfoliating scrub or sponge
• Towel
• Razor
• Soap or body wash
• Moisturizer

Instructions

How to Prepare Skin for Self Tanning

1. Remove all dead skin. If you put self tanner on top of unexfoliated skin, it will not last as long and it may look blotchy. To do this, use a large-grain body scrub or exfoliating scrubbing sponge. In the shower, scrub off skin with either one of these tools, concentrating on scaly areas such as the back of your arms, your knees and elbows. Be careful, though. Scrub off dead skin, not healthy skin. Scrubbing too hard can lead to irritation.

2. Wash the scrub off thoroughly using warm water, and clean skin as usual. Using a plain soap is recommended at this stage, as anything with moisturizers in it may prevent the tanning lotion from absorbing completely.

3. Remember to shave your legs. Also, if you have thick hair in any area, you may want to consider trimming or shaving it so that your tan can be applied properly. Trying to apply tanning lotion on top of hair makes your hair matted and the tan blotchy.

4. Dry off completely.

5. Apply a very light layer of moisturizer to knees and elbows. This is where self-tanner absorbs too much and gets darker than the rest of the skin.

6. Wash and dry your hands before applying your tanning lotion. Also, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying, as this is where lotion is absorbed the quickest.

Tips & Warnings

• Tanning companies often sell the products you will need to prepare your skin.

• Tanning lotions are often area specific. Using a different lotion on your face than on your body will give you a tan that is the proper color.

• If you're scared about how your tan will turn out, try a gradual tanning lotion. It works just like regular self-tanner except the tan darkens with each use. It's a subtle introduction into the world of self-tanning.

• Almost no one gets this process perfect the first time. With experience, you'll be able to see what areas you typically miss.