When it comes to fake tan, the formula and application are crucial, but the final effects are mostly dependent on one critical factor: the preparation time. Applying artificial tanning lotion or spray over dry, parched skin will almost certainly result in a spotty, uneven, and potentially catastrophic tanning job—and we’ve all been there.
But if you put in the time and effort ahead of time, you’ll be rewarded with a flawless, glowing, even tan that appears more like you’ve spent two weeks in the Mediterranean than the result of a tanning lotion. So, what is the best way to prepare for a fake tan? Discover the perfect five-step skin preparation regimen that can significantly boost your fake tan game.
STEP ONE: EXFOLIATE
We all want our fake tan to appear natural, but the most obvious indicator of an at-home job is patchiness in the application. What is the root of the problem? Skin that is dry and rough. A good exfoliant is therefore an essential part of any tanning regiment. Make a date with a body scrub 48 hours before you plan to tan your skin. In the shower, make circular movements to buff Kiehl’s Gently Exfoliating Body Scrubs into the limbs, giving special attention to the obstinate regions of dry skin on the knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists. After that, rinse well with warm water. These scrubs, which are enriched with natural grains, will leave your skin feeling silky smooth.
STEP TWO: MOISTURISE
Using a buttery body lotion after exfoliating is an excellent way to replenish the skin’s moisture reserves. Make an all-over application of Kiehl’s Crème de Corps, which is packed with shea butter and avocado oil, to nourish and soften even the driest of skin. Repeat this process 24 hours before your tanning session to ensure enough hydration.
STEP THREE: CLEANSE
Cleaning the skin just before tanning will produce a smooth base that will help the fake tan to stick evenly to the skin and last longer. Avoiding anything too greasy is essential; lather up with Kiehl’s Bath & Shower Liquid Body Cleanser, which is made with aloe vera and hydrolyzed wheat proteins to soothe while gently cleansing the skin.
STEP FOUR: APPLY MORE MOISTURIZER
A dab of body lotion applied to drier places such as the elbows, knees, wrists, and hands just before tanning can prevent the extra product from accumulating in these areas and giving the game away. However, moisturizing after a tan is essential as well. Once the tan has formed and the guide color has been wiped away, apply Kiehl’s Crème de Corps to the entire body to moisturize it. This product will provide your skin with a healthy, radiant shine while also extending the length of your tan by keeping your skin moisturized, especially if you use it on a daily basis.
STEP FIVE: REMOVE AND REPLACE
As the top layer of skin cells begins to dry up, the tan will begin to break down, resulting in skin that seems uneven in appearance. Exfoliation will accelerate the cell regeneration process at this point, ensuring that the tan fades evenly throughout. Scrub the knees and elbows a few days after tanning to remove dead skin cells, and when you’re ready to tan again, just exfoliate the entire body and repeat the procedure all over again.