How to Maintain Your Sunless Tan
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Looking for ways to extend your self tan and maintain that perfect bronzed glow? The secret to long-lasting self tanner isn't just in the application – it's in the maintenance routine. Learn expert tips on how to make your self tanner last longer and avoid common fading issues that plague at-home tanners.
Pre-Tan Prep
The key to making your self tanner last starts before you even open your tanning product. Just like a professional spray tan, preparation is crucial for longevity. Here's your essential pre-tan routine:
1. Start with a thorough exfoliation 24 hours before application (this includes shaving!). Doing this creates an even surface for the DHA (the active tanning ingredient) to develop on. Focus particularly on rough areas like:
- Elbows
- Knees
- Ankles
- Feet
Pro tip: Avoid oil-based body scrubs, as they leave a residue that prevents self tanner from developing properly.
2. After exfoliation, moisturize your face and body to ensure your skin is nice and hydrated. This will give the tanning product a great canvas to work on and allow it to absorb quickly and evenly.
Daily Maintenance: Your Morning-to-Night Routine
Morning Care
Your morning routine can significantly impact how long your self tanner lasts:
- Take quick, lukewarm showers (hot water is the enemy of self tanner)
- Pat skin dry – never rub!
- Apply oil-free moisturizer immediately
- Use a dry-touch sunscreen that won't interfere with your tan
Apply a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer immediately after showering. For extended results, mix a few drops of our Bronzing Elixir Drops into your moisturizer for a subtle boost of color.
Evening Maintenance
Your nighttime routine is crucial for tan preservation. Avoid hard soaps and exfoliating cleansers and try to avoid over-scrubbing.
Perfect your nighttime routine to extend your self tan:
- Use gentle, non-exfoliating cleansers - this is key!
- Apply a lightweight moisturizer before bed to lock in moisture
- Pay extra attention to hands, elbows, and feet - keep those babies hydrated!
What Fades Your Self Tan?
Several factors can accelerate the fading of your sunless tan:
Water Exposure
- Long, hot showers
- Swimming pools (chlorine)
- Beach days (salt water)
Skincare Ingredients
- Retinols
- Alpha hydroxy acids
- Harsh exfoliants
Physical Factors
- Excessive sweating
- Tight clothing friction
- Frequent hand washing
Your face, hands, and areas with a lot of movement will naturally fade faster due to more frequent washing and general daily activity.
The Bottom Line
A beautiful, long-lasting sunless tan is achievable with the right maintenance routine. Remember, it's not just about the products you use, but how you use them.
Consistency is key – a daily maintenance routine will always yield better results than sporadic care.