In addition to being an esthetician, I am also a custom spray tan technician. In my experience, not everyone knows the prep you should undergo before trying to achieve that golden glow.
Whether you’re stepping into a booth or getting a manual custom tan, here are a few tips and products to prep your skin beforehand to improve your results:
Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate!
Two ways: Remove unwanted hair by shaving or waxing no less than 24 hours before your tan.
Start with GlyMed+’s Essential Shave Cream.
While shaving is its own form of exfoliant, you’ll want to ensure you wash away all those dead skin cells by using a body scrub, too. When it comes to exfoliants, I recommend:
Circadia’s Blue Bamboo Exfoliator for Body.
Image Skincare’s BODY SPA Exfoliating Body Scrub
GlyMed+’s Refining Body Scrub
Note: Exfoliating should not be repeated until you’re ready for your next tan!
Stay Moisturized… But Avoid Lotions and Oils
Have a good oil-free go-to on hand to use as a barrier cream. This is necessary for those areas that tend to be a little rough (think knees, elbows, between the toes and fingers!) and is applied right before you get your tan.
Extend the life of your tan by keeping your skin hydrated.
Remember, always stick with an oil-free moisturizer, like GlyMed+’s Oil-Free Protective Moisturizer (with the added benefit of SPF)! Oils can break down the color and lead to streaks or dark patches.
Don’t Forget Lips!
Two great options for keeping your lips from drying, cracking, and absorbing too much pigment include:
GlyMed+’s Hydrating Lip Balm
IMAGEMD’s Restoring Lip Enhancer
Ready for that summer glow no matter the season? Stock up on the essentials via my GlyMed+ shop or by placing an order using my Circadia and IMAGE Skincare order forms!
For more questions regarding this topic, head over to my Ask an Esti page!