The Ultimate Guide to Fake Tans: How to Prep, Care, and Remove for a Flawless Glow

A professional fake tan is the ultimate way to achieve that golden, sun-kissed look without exposing your skin to harsh UV rays. Whether you’ve got a wedding, holiday, special event, or simply want to feel a little more radiant, a flawless fake tan all comes down to proper prep and aftercare.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: how to prepare your skin beforehand, how to look after your tan once it’s applied, and the best way to remove it when it’s time to refresh.

Before Your Tan: How to Prep for the Best Results

Your skin prep makes a massive difference to how your tan develops and how long it lasts. Here’s how to get it right.

1. Exfoliate a Few Days Before

Start exfoliating your body two to three days before your appointment. This helps remove dead skin cells and gives your skin a smooth, even base for the tan to adhere to. Use a gentle scrub, exfoliating mitt, or dry brush. Avoid exfoliating on the day of your tan, as your skin can be a little sensitive straight after.

2. Shave or Wax 24 Hours Before

If you need to shave or wax, do it at least 24 hours before your tanning session. This gives your skin time to calm down and allows the pores to close, which helps prevent that ‘dotty’ look from tanning solution settling in open follicles.

3. Moisturise in the Lead-Up

In the days leading up to your appointment, moisturise daily to keep your skin hydrated and smooth. Pay particular attention to dry spots like elbows, knees, ankles, and hands. However, skip the moisturiser on the day of your appointment, as any residue can create a barrier and cause patchy results.

4. Arrive With Clean, Product-Free Skin

On the day of your appointment, have a shower beforehand and arrive with clean, dry skin. Avoid wearing deodorant, perfume, makeup, or body lotion, as these can interfere with how the tan applies and develops.

After Your Tan: How to Make It Last

Once your tan is applied, the way you care for your skin will make a huge difference in how it looks and how long it lasts.

1. Wait Before Showering

After your appointment, wait at least 8 to 10 hours before having your first shower — or follow the timing recommended by your tanning technician. When you do rinse off, use lukewarm water only and skip the soap, shampoo and scrubbing for this first rinse. Gently pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing.

2. Avoid Getting Wet or Sweaty Too Soon

Try to avoid water, rain, sweating, or intense workouts for the first 24 hours after your tan. Water and sweat can disrupt the development of the colour and cause streaks or uneven patches.

3. Moisturise Morning and Night

From the day after your first rinse, moisturise your entire body morning and night. Use a nourishing, fragrance-free moisturiser that’s gentle on the skin. This will help keep your skin soft, slow down the fading process, and reduce patchiness.

4. Avoid Exfoliating Until It’s Time to Remove the Tan

Hold off on any exfoliating or scrubbing until your tan starts to fade and you’re ready to remove it. Scrubbing too early can lift the tan unevenly and shorten its lifespan.

5. Use a Gradual Tanner to Extend Your Glow

If you want to keep your glow going for longer, consider using a gradual tanning lotion or tan-extending moisturiser. These contain a small amount of tanning ingredient and can help top up your colour between appointments.

Removing Your Tan: How to Fade It Gently

When your tan starts to look patchy or it’s time for a fresh one, here’s how to remove it without damaging your skin.

1. Soak in a Warm Bath With Oils

Run a warm bath and add a few drops of baby oil, coconut oil, or another natural oil. Soaking for 20–30 minutes can help soften your skin and loosen the old tan, making it easier to remove.

2. Gently Exfoliate With a Mitt

After your bath, use a soft exfoliating mitt in gentle circular motions to lift off the fading tan. Be patient and avoid scrubbing too hard — it’s better to do this over a couple of sessions than risk irritating your skin.

3. Use a Tan Remover Product

There are plenty of fake tan removers on the market designed to break down leftover colour. These usually come in a mousse or gel formula. Apply as directed to dry skin, wait the recommended time, then rinse and exfoliate gently.

4. Be Kind to Your Skin

If you’ve still got stubborn patches, repeat the process the next day. Avoid harsh scrubs or strong exfoliants that could cause redness or sensitivity.