Should You Moisturize Before Self Tanner? The Complete Guide to Preparing Your Skin

Yes—but only in the right places.

One of the most common questions people ask before applying self tanner is whether they should moisturize first. The answer is yes, but applying lotion to your entire body immediately before self tanning isn't usually the best approach.

Instead, lightly moisturizing dry areas such as your elbows, knees, ankles, and feet can help create a smoother, more even-looking tan while reducing the risk of dark patches and streaks.

If you're new to self tanning, this guide explains exactly how to prepare your skin for the best possible results.

Why Moisturizing Before Self Tanner Matters

Self tanners work by reacting with the outer layer of your skin. When some areas are much drier than others, they absorb more tanning product, often resulting in uneven color.

Proper skin preparation helps:

• Create a smoother finish
• Reduce streaks
• Minimize dark patches
• Improve fading
• Make your glow look more natural

Good preparation is just as important as choosing the right tanning product. For a full breakdown of application technique, see our guide on how to apply bronzing moisturizer without streaks.

Should You Moisturize Your Entire Body Before Self Tanner?

Not usually. Applying a thick layer of lotion over your whole body immediately before self tanning can create a barrier that may affect how evenly the tanning product develops.

Instead:

• Keep your skin hydrated in the days before tanning.
• Apply a lightweight moisturizer only to dry areas immediately before application.
• Allow the moisturizer to absorb before applying your tanning product.

This simple routine helps create more consistent results.

Where Should You Apply Moisturizer?

Focus on the areas that naturally become dry. These include:

• Elbows
• Knees
• Ankles
• Feet
• Hands
• Wrists

These areas absorb more tanning product than the rest of your body. Using a small amount of moisturizer helps prevent darker patches while keeping your tan looking more even.

Should You Exfoliate Before Moisturizing?

Yes. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells that can cause patchy tanning. Start with a gentle cleanse using our Gentle Kale Face Cleanser for your face, then follow this simple preparation routine for your body:

1. Shower.
2. Exfoliate your skin.
3. Dry your body completely.
4. Moisturize dry areas.
5. Apply self tanner.

Following these steps gives your tanning product a smoother surface to work with.

How Long Should You Wait After Moisturizing?

Allow your moisturizer to absorb before applying self tanner. If your skin still feels wet, greasy, or sticky, wait a little longer. A lightweight moisturizer that absorbs quickly generally works better than thick body butters or oil-rich creams.

What Type of Moisturizer Works Best?

Choose a moisturizer that is:

• Lightweight
• Fast absorbing
• Non-greasy
• Suitable for your skin type

Avoid products that leave a heavy film on your skin immediately before tanning.

Common Mistakes People Make

Applying Lotion Everywhere

Too much moisturizer across your entire body can affect how evenly your tan develops.

Skipping Moisturizer Completely

Very dry areas often absorb more tanning product, creating darker patches.

Forgetting to Exfoliate

Uneven skin texture is one of the biggest causes of streaks.

Applying Self Tanner to Damp Skin

Always begin with completely dry skin.

Should Different Skin Types Moisturize Differently?

Dry Skin

Dry skin benefits from regular moisturizing before tanning day. On application day, use a light moisturizer on extra-dry areas. Pairing your routine with our Anti-Aging Face Serum can also help keep facial skin nourished and prepped.

Oily Skin

A lightweight moisturizer is usually enough. Avoid heavy creams immediately before tanning.

Sensitive Skin

Choose fragrance-free products if your skin is easily irritated, and patch-test any new skincare products. Our guide on what niacinamide serum does for skin is a helpful read for those with reactive skin types.

Tips for a More Natural-Looking Glow

For the best results:

• Exfoliate before tanning.
• Moisturize dry areas.
• Apply self tanner in sections.
• Blend carefully around joints.
• Wash your palms after application if you're not using an applicator.
• Let the product dry before getting dressed.
• Moisturize daily after your tan develops.

These small habits can make a noticeable difference. For more beach-ready tips, check out our article on can you use bronzing moisturizer before going to the beach.

What Should You Avoid Before Self Tanner?

Try to avoid:

• Heavy oils
• Thick body butters
• Petroleum-based products
• Applying self tanner to wet skin
• Rushing the application

Preparing your skin properly is often the difference between an even glow and a patchy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you moisturize before self tanner?

Yes. Apply a lightweight moisturizer to dry areas such as elbows, knees, ankles, feet, and hands before applying self tanner.

Can too much lotion ruin a self tan?

Applying heavy lotion over your entire body immediately before self tanning may affect how evenly the tanning product develops.

Should I moisturize after self tanning?

Yes. Daily moisturizing helps your tan fade more evenly and can help maintain smoother-looking skin.

Should I shave before self tanning?

If you shave, it's generally best to do so before applying self tanner and give your skin time to settle before tanning.

Can dry skin cause streaks?

Yes. Dry patches often absorb more tanning product than the surrounding skin, making proper moisturizing especially important.

Should I exfoliate before self tanning?

Yes. Gentle exfoliation before tanning helps remove dead skin cells and creates a smoother surface for more even application.

Can I use bronzing moisturizer instead of self tanner?

Bronzing moisturizers often provide a more gradual glow while also hydrating the skin, making them a popular option for people who want buildable color and a natural finish. Explore our Self-Tanning collection or discover our Bronzing Moisturizer Havana for a hydrating, buildable glow.

Final Thoughts

Moisturizing before self tanner is one of the easiest ways to improve your results — but it's all about applying moisturizer in the right places.

By exfoliating first, moisturizing dry areas, and using careful application techniques, you can reduce streaks, avoid patchy color, and enjoy a more natural-looking glow.

For more tanning tips, read our How to Apply Bronzing Moisturizer Without Streaks guide, or shop our Bronzing Moisturizer Havana for a streak-free, hydrating glow.