The Ultimate Tanning Routine
The Ultimate Tanning Routine: How to Get a Deeper, Darker Tan (Faster)
We’ve all been there: you spend hours in the sun or book a sequence of sunbed sessions, only to end up with a tan that fades in days, or worse, dry and patchy skin.
If you want a rich, dark tan that lasts, you can’t just show up and hope for the best. You need a routine.
Because SKINJAM formulas use science instead of fake tan (DHA), our creams work with your skin’s natural melanin production. To get the absolute most out of your sessions, follow this ultimate 3-step tanning routine.
Step 1: Pre-Tan Preparation (The Foundation)
A great tan starts before you even step near a sunbed or layout in the sun. If you skip preparation, you are tanning dead skin cells that will naturally shed in a few days, taking your tan with them.
1. Exfoliate 24 Hours Prior: Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or mitt the day before your session. This removes dead skin cells and creates a perfectly smooth canvas, allowing your accelerator cream to absorb evenly.
2. Shave or Wax Early: Do any hair removal at least 24 hours before tanning. This gives your pores time to close, preventing any irritation when you apply products or heat up under UV rays.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water. Hydrated skin cells tan much more effectively and hold onto pigment significantly longer than dehydrated cells.
Step 2: The Activation Session (Maximising the UV)
This is where the magic happens. Your main goal here is to jumpstart your skin's natural tanning process while keeping the skin barrier completely protected.
Ensure your skin is free from heavy perfumes, deodorants, or makeup. These can create a barrier or cause uneven, patchy results when exposed to UV light.
Apply a generous layer of your favorite signature scent. Because our formulas are completely non-greasy and fast-absorbing, it will sink in quickly without leaving a sticky residue. Bonus: It’s 100% DHA-free, so it won't stain your clothes or towels.
As the UV hits your skin, the Acetyl Tyrosine and Beta Carotene in the cream go to work, actively supercharging your natural melanin production. You'll stimulate a darker result in a fraction of the time.
Step 3: Post-Tan Lock (Extending the Glow)
What you do after your session dictates whether your tan lasts for weeks or starts flaking off in days.
1. Hold Off on the Shower: Try to wait at least 2 to 3 hours after your session before showering. This allows your skin temperature to settle and lets the active ingredients completely finish their job.
2. Ditch the Piping Hot Water: When you do shower, use lukewarm water and a mild, hydrating body wash. Avoid harsh exfoliating soaps that will strip your freshly bronzed skin.
3. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: UV light naturally dehydrates the skin. While our formula contains Hyaluronic Acid and Jojoba Oil to protect you during the session, you should top up with a rich moisturizer every evening to lock in the moisture and prevent peeling.The Golden Rule: A dark tan is built on healthy, hydrated skin. By feeding your skin the right melanin-boosting ingredients before you tan, and locking in moisture afterward, you'll achieve a deeper bronze that stays radiant for weeks.
Ready to elevate your next session?
Explore our high-strength, non-staining tanning accelerators in Vanilla Cream and Pomegranate Crush to unlock your deepest natural tan yet.