“Exfoliating is the most important step in prepping for a spray tan or self-tanning application," says Kristyn Pradas, celebrity spray tan and body contour artist. So, to narrow down the absolute best exfoliators to use before a spray tan, Elite Daily spoke with Pradas and three other experts to get their product recommendations. Most of them suggest using some sort of body scrub, loofah, or exfoliating mitt, either on their own or together. For more pro tips and details about each product, read on.
Start exfoliating a few days ahead, says Jordan Cook, a St. Moriz expert tanner. This will ensure that you've gotten rid of any old tanning residue, as well as dead skin, to perfect and smooth the surface of your skin. That way, your golden glow will last longer and fade more evenly.
"Exfoliating reveals new skin, which ensures a more even application and longer-lasting results," agrees Nechelle Turner, a national makeup artist and educator with jane iredale. Because most body exfoliants contain some form of oil, Turner prefers to use exfoliating scrubs a few days before your spray tan — skip using them the day of. Otherwise, "the oils can leave a residue that won’t allow the pigment from the spray tan to penetrate."
Finally, Pradas advises waiting at least five days after your spray tan before lightly exfoliating again. Then you can get rid of any "new" dead skin cells so your tan will fade more evenly.
To shop the best exfoliators to use before a spray tan, plus more pre-spray tan tips, scroll on.
We only recommend products we love and that we think you will, too. We may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was written by our Commerce team.