Great Tans Start With Great Prep
Proper tan prep is the foundation of every impeccable glow you've ever admired – the difference between professional-grade results and a sad, streaky tan.
Dead skin cells, dry patches, oils, and product buildup create an uneven surface that causes tanner to adhere inconsistently, leading to patchy colour and premature fading. When you prep for spray tan properly, you're creating a smooth, clean base that allows colour to develop evenly and glow longer.The best spray tan prep routine can extend your tan's life by 3-5 days.
Skin-Friendly Tan Prep Products
The best prep for spray tan demands products that actually elevate your skin. Moroccan Tan's prep collection features products specifically designed to work in harmony for impeccable results.
Primer Exfoliator
Our Primer Exfoliator features finely milled natural exfoliants that buff away dead skin without any damage to your skin. Infused with skin-conditioning ingredients alongside exfoliating particles, this product nourishes while it exfoliates.
We also offer a classic exfoliating mitt for those who prefer a reusable option.
Moroccan Butter
Moroccan Butter is a rich, deeply nourishing moisturiser designed for the 24-48 hours leading up to your tan. This luxe formula featuring argan oil and shea butter transforms dry, thirsty skin into the hydrated, supple canvas that holds colour beautifully.
Moroccan Butter is specifically formulated to deeply hydrate without leaving residue. It's rich enough to transform dry areas but designed to fully absorb, leaving skin conditioned rather than coated.
The Perfect Prep Routine
48-24 Hours Before: Deep Prep Phase
- Exfoliate your entire body, paying special attention to textured areas
- Complete any hair removal
- Apply Moroccan Butter generously after exfoliating, focusing on naturally drier zones
- Repeat this routine daily in the 2 days leading up to your tan
24 Hours Before: Final Prep
- One final exfoliation session
- Shower thoroughly, ensuring all product is rinsed completely
- Apply Moroccan Butter one last time, especially to hands, feet, elbows, and knees
- Allow it to fully absorb overnight
Day Of: The Clean Canvas
- Quick rinse with water only
- Skip ALL moisturisers, oils, deodorants, perfumes, makeup
- Your skin should feel clean and bare
Tan Prep FAQs
What should I do before a spray tan?
The essentials for how to prep for spray tan:
- Exfoliate thoroughly 24 hours before
- Complete any hair removal at least 12 hours prior,
- Moisturise dry areas in the days leading up (but not day-of)
On tan day, rinse with water only and skip deodorant, perfume, makeup, and moisturisers. Proper pre-spray tan prep makes the difference between good results and flawless ones.
How long before a spray tan should I exfoliate?
Exfoliate 24 hours before your tan for optimal results. This timing allows your pores to close properly and prevents tanning solution from settling into them, which can cause dark spots. Exfoliating too close to application leaves pores open and skin potentially sensitised. Too far in advance (like 3+ days) means dead cells start accumulating again.
Should I shave before or after spray tan?
Always complete hair removal before, ideally 12-24 hours prior to your tan. Shaving after will strip away your fresh colour as the razor removes the top layer of tanned skin cells. If you shave immediately before (within hours), open pores can absorb excess solution and create uneven spots.
What happens if you don't exfoliate before fake tan?
The results are significantly compromised. Without proper prep for spray tan, tanning solution clings to dead skin cells that will shed within days, taking your colour with them. You'll see patchiness almost immediately as some areas develop while others don't. Dry spots turn dramatically darker, rough texture becomes more pronounced, and your tan fades unevenly.
Can I moisturise before spray tan?
Not on the day of your tan. While moisturising is essential in the days leading up as part of your how to prep for a spray tan routine, applying it on tan day creates a barrier preventing the solution from adhering properly.
How do I prep my face for a spray tan?
Face prep requires a more refined approach. Exfoliate using gentle, circular motions 24 hours before. Moisturise thoughtfully in prep days, but use less than on your body to prevent congestion. On tan days, cleanse with water only. Consider applying a thin layer of barrier cream to eyebrows and hairline to prevent over-darkening.