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FAQ: Tanning Application

The secret to a flawless tan is as much about pre-tan preparation, including exfoliation as it is about the actual application, and post-tan maintenance. Following each of these steps, including these trouble-shooting tips, will ensure you obtain the best result and the longest lasting tan.

POST TAN MAINTENANCE

  • Clothing:

    • Ensure your tan is thoroughly dry prior to dressing.

    • Loose fitting clothing should be worn for 6 - 8 hours following your tanning application. Tight clothing that rubs on or against the skin can result in uneven tanning.

    • If at all possible, avoid wearing a bra as the straps can rub against the tan and create marks in the bronzer and result in an uneven tan.

  • Showering:

    • Wait a minimum of 6-8 hours before showering. Ideally, wait until the next day to enable maximum development time for your tan.

    • Wash with an SLS (Sodium Laurel Sulphate) free body wash (such as Body Shampoo) as harsh soaps can break down and remove your tan. Avoid scrubbing the body harshly; wash just using your hand with product.

    • After washing, pat your body dry - don't rub.

  • Post Tan Activities:

    • Avoid swimming, exercise, perspiring excessively, or any other activity with water, until after your post-tan shower, as any water or moisture on the skin during this period will interfere with your tan, and can result in uneven or blotchy tanning.

  • Moisturise:

    • Keeping the skin well moisturised is a critical step in controlling the skin's natural exfoliation process, and thereby prolonging your tan.

    • It's important to use a moisturiser (such as Body Frosting) that doesn't contain harmful chemicals that can break down and remove your tan (not withstanding the damage and harm it can do to your skin).

    • Moisturise day and night.

    • To prolong your tan further, use the Bronzing Custard (which contains a small amount of DHA) on alternate days. This will assist in maintaining your tan until it is ready to break down.

  • Exfoliation:

    • Only exfoliate towards the end of the life of your tan, once the tan has completely faded, or just prior to being re-tanned.

    • Liquid Loofah is great for tan removal as it is abrasive, yet extremely moisturising on the skin. It will leave your skin feeling fresh and hydrated, ready for your next tan.

    • TIP: For regular tanners who have a tan build-up, you can use a baking soda and water (or lemon juice) paste and apply this to the skin. Take a long saoking bath (20-30 minutes - the longer the better), exfoliating lightly. Dry briskly with a towel, rubbing any stubborn areas as required.

    • Tan removers are not recommended as they are extremely harsh on the skin and contain un-natural ingredients.

    • [The Baiden Mitten is personally one of the best products/methods I've used to exfoliate. Not only is it a very natural and effective tool to remove dead skin (the results are highly visible!), I've found my tan lasts a lot longer (7-10+ days) and wears much more evenly than previously].

THINGS TO AVOID

The following points are all activities / products that can interfere with your tan and can cause it to fade sooner than expected. Being aware of these points will avoid disappointment.

  • Pools / Spas:

    • Chlorine / salt water pools and spas can assist with fading of the tan if submersed for lengthy periods. Try quick dips for a few minutes instead (NB: Chlorine acts like a bleaching agent on the skin.

  • Exercise:

    • Exercise and heavy sweating can result in a tan fading faster.
  • Long / Hot Baths:

    • Unless you're wanting to remove your tan, avoid soaking in long / hot baths.

  • Soaps:

    • Avoid body washes that contain SLS (Sodium Laurel Sulphate).

    • Consider using an product such as Body Shampoo, which is not only free from SLS and harmful chemicals, but is great for your skin.

    • Dove soaps / gels.

    • Sorbelene (This will leave a barrier over the skin and will prevent the tan from developing).

    • Any bar soaps.