5 Simple Ways to Prepare Your Skin Before Tanning

If your self-tan has ever turned out streaky, patchy, or just didn’t last, the problem probably wasn’t the tan it was the prep. Great tanning results start long before application. Whether you're new to self-tanning or a seasoned pro, how you prepare your skin can make all the difference.

At Ayu Cosmetics, we believe that a healthy, radiant glow starts with thoughtful care not just colour. That’s why we’ve created the AyuGlo tanning range, designed to help you achieve smooth, long-lasting results with ease.

Here are 5 simple ways to prep your skin before tanning, along with expert tips and trusted product picks to help you glow with confidence.

1. Exfoliate Gently and Thoroughly 

Smooth, radiant tanning results start with a clean canvas. Exfoliating 24–48 hours before applying your self-tanner removes dead skin cells and creates an even surface to help prevent patchiness.

Try AyuGlo Tan Remover our dual-action mousse is specially formulated to help erase leftover tan while gently exfoliating the skin. It’s the perfect prep step to reset your skin before a fresh tan. Follow with AyuGlo Prep & Prolong Body Lotion to hydrate and soften, ensuring your skin is primed and ready.

Tip: Use the Tan Remover with our exfoliating mitt, focusing on dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles for a smooth base.

2. Shave or Wax in Advance

Hair removal opens the pores, which can lead to irritation or blotchy results if you apply tan too soon afterward. To ensure a smooth, even finish, it's best to shave or wax at least 24 hours before tanning. This gives your skin time to calm and allows the pores to close, helping the tan apply more evenly and last longer.

Tip: Avoid using harsh or alcohol-based products after shaving, as they can dry out your skin and interfere with your tan’s development.

3. Hydrate the Right Way

Moisturising is key to achieving a smooth, even tan but timing matters just as much as technique. Dry skin can absorb self-tanner unevenly, causing darker patches, especially on areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. 

In the days leading up to your tan, nourish your skin with a lightweight, hydrating lotion like the AyuGlo Prep & Prolong Body Lotion. Its non-greasy formula absorbs quickly and conditions the skin, helping to create the ideal base for tanning. On tanning day, keep application light just a small amount on dry-prone areas will do the trick. 

Tip: Steer clear of oil-based moisturisers right before tanning they create a barrier that can block absorption and lead to a patchy finish. 

4. Time Your Shower and Stay Dry 

Your final pre-tan shower plays a bigger role than you might think. Take a lukewarm shower a few hours before tanning to ensure your skin is clean, calm, and completely dry. Any leftover residue from soaps, shaving creams, body wash, or deodorants can interfere with how the tan develops on your skin.  

After your shower, avoid using any products on your skin including deodorant, perfume, or makeup. These can react with the tanning ingredients and cause discolouration, like unwanted green or orange tones. 

Tip: Give your skin enough time to dry thoroughly and cool down post-shower before applying your self-tan. Tanning on damp or warm skin can lead to streaks and uneven coverage. 

5. Apply with the Right Tools 

Using the right tools and applying your tan with care are what truly makes the difference between a streaky tan and a seamless glow. A high-quality applicator ensures even distribution, especially around tricky areas like knees, ankles, and wrists. 

AyuGlo Tanning Mitts: Designed for smooth, streak-free application, these mitts help blend your tan evenly across your body while protecting your hands from staining. 

AyuGlo Kabuki Brush: Ideal for precision work, this brush makes blending around smaller areas like feet, wrists, and the face effortless and smooth. 

Tip: Use gentle circular motions for application and apply a second light layer if you prefer a deeper colour.

Avoid These Common Tanning Prep Mistakes 

• Exfoliating right before tanning can leave skin too sensitive. 
• Shaving or waxing last-minute may cause irritation or blotches. 
• Using heavy moisturiser on tanning day can block even absorption. 
• Skipping dry areas (like elbows and knees) leads to darker patches. 
• Not using the right tools results in streaks and missed spots. 

Shop the AyuGlo tanning range at Ayu Cosmetics from hydrating lotions to expert tools, everything you need for a long-lasting glow.