Becko
If you’ve ever had a streaky spray tan, patchy ankles, or a colour that clings to your elbows like a bad habit, then I’m going to let you in on a little secret: exfoliation is EVERYTHING. Honestly, learning how to exfoliate before tanning is the golden ticket to achieving that flawless, sunkissed glow we all dream about—without stepping foot in the sun.
Whether you’re prepping for a big night out, a holiday, or just want to feel a bit more put-together on the daily, this post will walk you through how to exfoliate before a spray tan like a pro. It’s all part of your pre-tan prep, and trust me—your skin (and your tan) will thank you for it.
And if you’re still wondering whether a spray tan is worth the hype, I’ve got a whole post on the benefits of spray tanning that will convert you faster than you can say “summer skin.”
Right—let’s get glowing, shall we?
Why Exfoliating Before Tanning is So Important
Before we get into the how, let’s talk about the why.
Exfoliating before a tan—especially before a spray tan—helps to:
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Remove dead skin cells, so the tan can be applied to a smooth, even surface.
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Prevent patchiness, especially on dry areas like knees, elbows, and ankles.
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Make your tan last longer, because it sticks better to fresh skin.
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Create a flawless finish, giving you that natural, even glow.
Basically, if you skip this step, you’re more likely to end up with uneven colour or weird streaks. And no one wants that.
When Should You Exfoliate Before a Spray Tan?
Timing is key here.
Ideally, you want to exfoliate 24 hours before your spray tan. That gives your skin time to calm down, your pores to close, and any products you use to fully absorb.
Doing it too close to your appointment (say, an hour before) can actually make your skin too sensitive or leave residue that messes with your tan. So get it done the day before—put some music on, make it a self-care moment, and enjoy!
How to Exfoliate Before Tanning: Step-by-Step
Let’s break it down so you know exactly how to exfoliate before tanning—no guesswork, no stress.
1. Ditch the Old Tan First
If you’ve got remnants of a previous tan (spray or gradual), get rid of it before you exfoliate properly. Use a tan remover mousse or oil, leave it on for the recommended time, then hop in the shower to gently scrub it off. Starting with a clean slate is key.
2. Choose the Right Exfoliator
This is crucial. You don’t want anything too oily or rich, as oils can create a barrier that stops your spray tan from developing properly.
Instead, go for:
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A dry body brush (fab for lymphatic drainage too!)
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A non-oily body scrub
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A washcloth or exfoliating mitt
If you’re looking to DIY it, a mix of sugar and lemon juice can work wonders—but again, avoid anything that leaves a greasy residue.
3. Hop in a Warm Shower or Bath
A warm shower helps to soften your skin and open your pores, making it easier to exfoliate effectively. Skip the hot, steamy baths as they can dry out your skin.
4. Gently Scrub, Don’t Attack
Focus on rougher areas like:
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Knees
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Elbows
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Ankles
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Heels
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Hands
Use circular motions and don’t go too hard—scrubbing like you’re trying to remove paint won’t help, and could leave your skin red or irritated.
5. Shave or Wax (if you do that)
Shaving acts as a natural exfoliator, so if you’re planning to do it, do it before tanning—not after. But give yourself at least 12–24 hours between shaving and your spray tan to avoid irritation or tiny dots where your pores soak up too much tan.
6. Rinse and Pat Dry
Once you’re out of the shower, pat your skin dry gently—no rubbing! Avoid applying any moisturisers, deodorants, or perfumes right after if you’re tanning the next day, as these can interfere with how your spray tan develops.
How Do You Exfoliate Before a Spray Tan?
Let’s rephrase it as a question you might be Googling: How do you exfoliate before a spray tan?
Simply put, the best method is to:
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Exfoliate 24 hours before your appointment.
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Use a non-oily scrub or exfoliating mitt.
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Focus on dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.
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Avoid heavy products after exfoliating.
It’s about being thorough, gentle, and mindful of what’s going on your skin in the run-up to your tan.
Bonus Tips for a Long-Lasting, Streak-Free Tan
Now that you know how to exfoliate before spray tan appointments, here are a few extra nuggets of tanning wisdom:
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Hydration is your BFF – Well-moisturised skin holds a tan better. So, moisturise daily leading up to your tan (just not the day before!).
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Don’t wear deodorant, make-up, or perfume to your appointment – These can cause patchiness.
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Wear loose, dark clothing after your tan – Think oversized tees and floaty trousers. Nothing tight or clingy.
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Avoid sweating, showering, or getting wet for 6–8 hours post-tan – Let it develop fully before washing it off.
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Moisturise daily once your tan has developed – This helps it fade evenly and keeps it looking fresh.
And remember: a tan is not a substitute for SPF! You still need to protect your skin from UV rays.
Referencing: The Benefits of Spray Tanning
If you’re still debating whether to try a spray tan, go check out my post on the benefits of spray tanning (link to your post here). It goes into all the reasons why I think it’s one of the best glow-up hacks out there.
In short:
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It’s instant confidence.
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It’s safer than sunbathing or sunbeds.
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It’s customisable—you can go as light or dark as you want.
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It makes you look healthier and more toned, without makeup.
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It’s fuss-free and fast.
Paired with the right exfoliation prep, it’s a game-changer for special occasions, holidays, or just your regular “I want to feel fab” vibe.
FAQs: How to Exfoliate Before Tanning
How do you exfoliate before a spray tan if you have sensitive skin?
Stick to gentle methods like a soft washcloth or an exfoliating glove. Avoid harsh scrubs with big grains or anything heavily scented. Always patch test a new product before using it all over.
Can I exfoliate on the same day as my spray tan?
It’s best not to. Exfoliating too close to your appointment can leave your skin too raw or reactive, and open pores can absorb too much product, leading to those dreaded dots. Aim for 24 hours before.
Should I moisturise after exfoliating?
Not the night before your tan, no. Moisturiser can leave a barrier that interferes with how the tan sticks to your skin. You can moisturise leading up to it—just skip the night before.
What happens if I forget to exfoliate before tanning?
You might end up with uneven colour, patchy fade-off, or streaks—especially around dry areas. It’s not the end of the world, but it definitely won’t be as flawless as it could be.
Do I need to exfoliate before using gradual tan?
Yes! Even though it builds slowly, gradual tan can still cling to dry spots if your skin isn’t prepped. A smooth surface = a smoother result.
Your Glow Starts with Great Prep
Exfoliating might feel like a faff, but once you see the difference it makes to your spray tan, you won’t skip it again. It’s one of those small beauty habits that packs a huge punch. Knowing how to exfoliate before tanning sets the foundation for a golden, glowing, even result every time.
And let’s face it—if you’re going to invest time and money into getting a spray tan, you want it to look good and last as long as possible. Exfoliation is the unsung hero in your tanning routine. So show your skin some love, and get that glow on.
Any more tanning questions? Drop them in the comments or message me—I love a good beauty chat!