Laying out is OUT and fake tanning is IN. Whether you have been sitting on the fence about trying self-tanning products, or you are a seasoned self-tanning guru, we all want to avoid splotchy tans. I'm talking about uneven tans, alligator skin, and patchiness. Ew? Achieving a flawless, even tan is all about preparation and understanding your skin. In this guide, we'll share essential tips to help you avoid those unsightly tan mishaps.

Preparation is Key

Imagine you are an artist, preparing to paint a beautiful picture on a canvas. What if your canvas was wrinkled, uneven, or dusty? The paint would not lay evenly and it probably wouldn't adhere to the canvas properly. The same concept applies to getting an even tan. Without taking the time to adequately prepare your skin, it's unlikely that you'll get the desired results.

1. Exfoliate the Right Way

One of the crucial steps in ensuring a smooth tan is proper exfoliation. Your skin is constantly shedding old cells and generating new ones; this is called cell turnover. It's your skin's natural exfoliation process. When you apply tanning lotion without proper exfoliation, it can cling to the dry, dead skin cells, resulting in an uneven appearance. By exfoliating before tanning, you create a smooth canvas for the tanning product to work its magic.

Exfoliating your skin 12-24 hours before tanning is key to achieving an even application. However, it's essential to exfoliate the right way. Soften your skin in a hot bath or shower, then use a gentle exfoliating mitt to remove dead skin cells. Don't overdo it and risk irritating your skin. Skipping exfoliation can lead to a patchy tan, as the tanning product won't adhere evenly to your skin's surface.

2. Stay Hydrated & Moisturized

We know you've probably heard this a million times... but in case you didn't know, water is, like, REALLY good for you. Staying hydrated is vital for maintaining a healthy glow. When you're dehydrated, your skin becomes dry and flaky, which can lead to uneven application and that dreaded splotchiness. The best way to ensure you don't experience any patches is by drinking plenty of water.

Keeping your skin well moisturized a week before your tan, and even during your tan, will work wonders in achieving that radiant, even glow. Hydrated skin serves as the perfect canvas for self-tanning products. It ensures that the tanning lotion or product can be applied smoothly and evenly, minimizing the risk of patchiness. So, don't underestimate the power of water and moisturization in your quest for a flawless tan. If you are keeping hydration a daily habit, your skin will thank you with a beautiful, long-lasting tan.

3. Balance Your Skin's pH Levels

Your skin's pH level plays a significant role in the quest for a natural-looking, even tan. Skin that is too acidic or too alkaline can disrupt the tanning process. Ideally, your skin's pH level should be slightly acidic, typically around 5.5. When your skin's pH is within this range, self-tanning products tend to interact more harmoniously with your skin. They're absorbed evenly, resulting in a tan that looks more natural and lasts longer. 

Several factors can disrupt your skin's pH balance. One common disruptor is the use of harsh soaps and cleansers that are overly alkaline, as they can strip away the skin's natural acidity. Exposure to environmental pollutants and hard water can also influence your skin's pH, making it more alkaline. Additionally, certain skincare products containing strong acids or bases may alter your skin's pH balance. Even the water temperature you use when cleansing can have an impact. Hot water can be harsh on the skin and may contribute to pH imbalance. Understanding and mitigating these factors can go a long way in ensuring your skin maintains the optimal pH level for a flawless sunless tan.

The bottom line is this: to avoid uneven tans, do all of your showering, shaving, exfoliating, washing, etc. 12-24 hours before your tan.

4. Say No to Oils Before Tanning

While moisturizing your skin is essential for a healthy glow, avoid using oils and lotion right before tanning. Oily skin can create a barrier that prevents self-tanning products from adhering evenly. Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer instead. Apply it well in advance of your tanning session to allow your skin to absorb it fully.

5. Invest in the Best Products

Achieving a perfect tan is not rocket science, but it does require some preparation, patience, and care. We always say that the perfect tan is 50% you and 50% the product. You could be doing all the right things to prepare for and maintain your tan, but it will only go so far if your self-tanning products are not up to par.

By following these essential steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can achieve a flawless tan that turns heads. Remember that choosing the right self-tanning products, like our top-rated self-tanning collection, can also make a significant difference in your tanning experience. Don't settle for splotchy tans any longer. Invest in the best self-tanning products and follow our expert tips to enjoy a sun-kissed glow that boosts your confidence.