When Should You Exfoliate Before Self Tanning?

Exfoliation clears away the dead surface cells that make colour cling unevenly. Do it at the right moment and your tan looks smooth; do it at the wrong moment and you sensitise the skin just before applying.

The 24-hour rule

Exfoliate the day before you tan, not on the day itself. Skin needs time to rebalance, and any residue from scrubs or shower oils needs to be fully rinsed away.

Where to focus

• Knees, elbows, ankles and heels, which are naturally drier.
• Wrists and the backs of the hands.
• Any area where a previous tan is still fading.

What to avoid

• Oil-based scrubs, which leave a barrier on the skin.
• Aggressive scrubbing that leaves skin red or irritated.
• Exfoliating immediately after shaving or waxing.