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Choosing the right product is important, but you won’t get that flawless tan without prepping your skin first. Imagine a chef serving you a meal that had no seasoning, or a painter starting a masterpiece on a dirty canvas. The result simply wouldn’t be right. Similarly, choosing the right tanning product is only part of the equation. Without proper skin prep, your tan might not turn out as smooth, even, or long-lasting as you'd hoped. 

The key to an amazing tan? It’s all in the preparation!

The Complete Guide on How to Prepare for Your Tan

How to prepare for your tan in 4 easy steps

Step 1: Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate

Did we mention exfoliate? Before you even start your application, you must remove any loose skin cells that might get in the way of a smooth and even tan. 

24 hours before you plan to start tanning, grab a goodexfoliating mitt to prepare your skin. The Bondi Sands Exfoliating Mitt works in two ways: the black side removes dry skin cells and any self-tan residue, while the blue side works to erase any unwanted tanning errors. 

Tanning Tip: Exfoliate at least 24 hours before applying your tan to avoid leaving the skin too dry. Softer skin will allow the product to absorb more easily.

Step 2: Shave or wax in advance

You want to give your skin time to heal from shaving or waxing before you apply your self tan. The less irritated your skin is, the more even the results. We suggest shaving or waxing at least 24 hours in advance.

Step 3: Moisturise any dry spots

Areas such as elbows, knees, feet and hands are drier and absorb more self tan, leading to uneven patches. To avoid this, apply a light layer of moisturiser to these areas before tanning to create a barrier, helping your tan develop evenly and preventing dark spots.

Step 4: Match the product to your skin

Choosing the right tanning product is key to achieving your desired tan. Different products work better for different skin types and tones, so make sure you’re selecting one that will give you the results you want.

Tanning Tip: New to self-tanning and feeling a little nervous? Start with a lighter shade and simply add a layer as you get more comfortable with the process. We personally recommend ourLight/Medium Self Tanning Foam for this.

Prep done. Time to tan

Now that you’re ready to start self tanning, make sure you’re in a well-lit area, and if possible, use a full-length mirror. 

Using an Application Mitt or Body Brush, start from your legs and work your way up to your arms in a circular motion. Struggling with your back? We’ve got aBack Applicator to help with those hard-to-reach spots without pulling a muscle in the process. 

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Once you’ve applied the self tan, wait until your skin is touch dry before getting dressed. After your tan is touch-dry, you can leave it on for anywhere from one hour to eight hours, depending on the product directions and the depth of tan you want. 

Prep is key to a perfect tan

Knowing how to prepare for your tan is the secret to achieving a summer-ready look all year round. It’s all about the right products, a few simple techniques and, of course, a little bit of patience.

Check out our full range ofself tan products to find everything you need to get the perfect tan from prep to finish. Treat yourself to a little DIY glow-up!