The Glow Edit
Spray Tan Tips··3 min read

How to Exfoliate Before Your Spray Tan (The Right Way)

Exfoliating before your spray tan is the #1 thing that determines how even your results will be. Here’s exactly how to do it right.

How to Exfoliate Before Your Spray Tan (The Right Way)

If there’s one thing that makes or breaks your spray tan, it’s exfoliation. Skip it, and you’ll get a patchy, uneven result. Do it wrong, and you might as well have skipped it. Here’s exactly how to prep your skin the right way.

Why Exfoliation Matters

Your skin is constantly shedding dead cells. When those cells build up, they create a rough, uneven surface. Spray tan solution clings to those dead patches, which means some areas absorb more colour than others. Exfoliation smooths everything out so the tan applies evenly from head to toe.

When to Exfoliate

Exfoliate 24 hours before your scheduled spray tan session. Exfoliating too early allows new dead cells to build up again before your appointment. Exfoliating right before your appointment can leave your pores open and irritated, which causes streaking.

What to Use (and What to Avoid)

Use a gentle body scrub or an exfoliating mitt. Focus extra attention on the rough spots — elbows, knees, ankles, heels, and wrists. These areas love to grab colour and turn darker than the rest of you.

Avoid anything oil-based. Oil leaves a residue that blocks the tan from absorbing. Skip the coconut scrubs, the body butters, and the moisturizing exfoliants for this one.

Don’t Shave Right Before

Shaving is a form of exfoliation on its own. If you shave the morning of your tan, you’re essentially exfoliating twice and leaving your skin raw. Shave at least 24 hours before your session instead.

A little prep goes a long way. Pair good exfoliation with our hydration add-on for a glow that lasts. Book your next session.

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