Whether your tan has developed from time outdoors or a tanning session, keeping your skin in good condition can help maintain its appearance. One of the biggest things to focus on is hydration.
1. Moisturise Your Skin Regularly
Dry, flaky skin can make a tan look uneven. Use a moisturising body lotion regularly, particularly after showering.
Shop After Tan Lotions & Tan Extenders
2. Use a Tan Extender
Tan extenders combine moisturising skincare with ingredients designed specifically for maintaining the appearance of tanned skin. Some formulas also contain gradual colour-enhancing ingredients.
3. Avoid Letting Your Skin Become Too Dry
Long, very hot showers and harsh skincare products can leave some people's skin feeling dry. Moisturise afterwards and pay attention to naturally drier areas.
4. Choose a Good After-Tan Moisturiser
Australian Gold Moisture Lock is a well-known after-sun and tan extender. The Australian Gold Hemp Nation range offers multiple fragrances and skincare formulas, while Seven Suns 97 Organic After Tan provides another dedicated post-tanning option.
5. Don't Over-Exfoliate
Gentle exfoliation can be useful as part of normal skincare, but aggressively exfoliating tanned skin may make colour appear to fade more quickly.
6. Keep Your Skincare Routine Consistent
A complicated routine isn't necessarily better. Focus on cleansing, moisturising and protecting your skin from the sun.
7. Protect Your Skin Outdoors
A tan doesn't provide adequate protection against UV radiation. If you're spending time outdoors, use an appropriate broad-spectrum sunscreen and follow its application and reapplication instructions.
Does Moisturiser Make a Tan Last Longer?
Moisturiser can't permanently preserve a tan because your skin continually renews itself. However, keeping skin hydrated can help prevent the dry, flaky appearance that makes a tan look uneven or faded.