A beautiful glow doesn’t just happen by accident. Whether you’re brand new to UV sessions or you’ve been building your color over time, the secret to long-lasting results is through thoughtful prep and simple aftercare. When it comes to tanning, what you do before and after your appointment plays a huge role in how evenly your color develops and how long it stays looking fresh.
Here’s how to make every session truly count.
Start With Smooth, Clean Skin
Preparation starts at home. About 24 hours before your visit, gently exfoliate to remove dry, flaky skin. Give a little extra attention to elbows, knees, and ankles, since those areas tend to hold onto roughness. Smoother skin means your tan develops more evenly and looks naturally radiant.
On the day of your appointment, skip the heavy lotions, oils, makeup, and perfumes. Clean, product-free skin allows UV tanning to work the way it’s meant to and helps prevent uneven patches. If you shower beforehand, use a mild cleanser and keep your skin bare afterward unless you’re using a product designed specifically for indoor tanning.
Hydration Is Everything
Hydrated skin simply holds color better. Start increasing your water intake a few days before your session and continue afterward. When your skin is nourished from within, it’s more elastic and better able to maintain that warm glow.
Daily moisturizing is just as important. After your session, wait a few hours before applying lotion unless advised otherwise, then keep it consistent. Soft, supple skin helps your tanning results look smoother and last noticeably longer.
Build Gradually, Not All at Once
It’s completely natural to want deeper color quickly, but slow and steady truly wins here. Building your tan gradually gives you a more natural look and keeps your skin feeling comfortable. Overdoing it can lead to dryness, which shortens the life of your glow. A consistent schedule tailored to your skin type will always give you better, longer-lasting results.
Post-Tan Care That Makes a Difference
After your session, we recommend avoiding hot showers, long baths, or harsh scrubs for at least 24 hours. Heat and friction can dry your skin and dull your color. When you shower, keep the water lukewarm and gently pat dry instead of rubbing.
If you swim, especially in chlorinated pools, be mindful that it can fade your color more quickly. Moisturize afterward to replenish hydration and protect your results.
A Touch of the Sun | UV Tanning, Spray Tans, & More
Stop by our tanning salon today and start your journey toward the perfect, confidence-boosting glow. Whether you’re building your color gradually or refreshing your look, our team is here to help you get the most out of every tanning session. Your best glow starts today!