Getting a tan is a popular way to achieve a sun-kissed glow, but it’s important to take care of your skin before you expose it to the sun or a tanning bed.

Preparing your skin not only helps you achieve a longer-lasting and even tan, but it also helps prevent damage and premature aging. Here are some essential pre-tan skin care tips that will ensure you get the best results:.

1. Exfoliate Your Skin

Exfoliation is key to achieving an even tan. Before tanning, exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and other impurities. This helps create an even surface for the tanning product or the sun’s rays to penetrate your skin.

2. Moisturize Regularly

Hydrated skin holds onto a tan better, so make sure you moisturize daily in the weeks leading up to your tanning session. Use a good quality moisturizer that suits your skin type.

Pay extra attention to areas prone to dryness, such as elbows, knees, and ankles.

3. Avoid Waxing or Shaving Right Before Tanning

If you wax or shave right before tanning, you may experience skin irritation or inflammation. It’s recommended to wax or shave at least 24 hours before tanning to allow your skin to heal. This will ensure an irritation-free tanning experience.

4. Don’t Forget Sunscreen

Yes, you read it right! Even if you are planning to tan, it’s crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF before you start the tanning process.

This helps prevent sunburn and long-term damage to your skin.

5. Stay Hydrated

Drinking an adequate amount of water helps keep your skin hydrated from within. Hydrated skin tends to tan better and retain the color for a longer duration. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water every day for hydrated and healthy skin.

6. Avoid Excessive Exfoliation

While exfoliating before tanning is necessary, excessive exfoliation after tanning can cause your tan to fade faster. Limit your post-tanning exfoliation routine to once a week to avoid stripping away the tan prematurely.

7. Choose the Right Tanning Product

If you prefer using a self-tanner, choose a product that suits your skin tone and desired tanning intensity. Test a small patch of skin before applying the product all over to ensure it doesn’t cause any adverse reactions.

Opt for high-quality self-tanners to achieve natural-looking results.

8. Take Cool Showers

Hot showers can strip away your tan quickly. After tanning, opt for cool showers and avoid using harsh soaps or scrubs. Pat dry your skin gently instead of rubbing it with a towel to preserve your tan.

9. Avoid Perfumes or Fragrances

Perfumes and fragrances can react with the chemicals in tanning products, leading to splotchy or uneven tans. To ensure even results, avoid using perfumes, body sprays, or scented lotions directly before or after tanning.

10. Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing

Tight clothing can rub against your skin and cause your tan to fade prematurely. Opt for loose-fitting clothes to avoid friction and allow your tan to develop without any hindrance.