Ever walked out of a spray tan session feeling absolutely radiant, only to have it start fading unevenly a few days later? It’s frustrating, right? You spend time and money to get that perfect glow, and then your tan disappears! One common culprit for this uneven fading? Using the wrong soap before your appointment.
Choosing the right soap before a spray tan is a big deal. The wrong soap can strip away your skin’s natural oils, making your tan look patchy. It can also contain ingredients that interfere with the tanning solution. This can lead to streaks, orange tones, and a shorter-lasting tan. We understand the pain of a bad spray tan – it’s not fun!
In this post, we’ll uncover the best soaps to use before your spray tan. We’ll also tell you which soaps to avoid, and why. You’ll learn how to prep your skin for a flawless, long-lasting tan. Get ready to say goodbye to fading and hello to a gorgeous, even glow. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to a perfect spray tan!
Our Top 5 Soap To Use Before Spray Tan Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Soap To Use Before Spray Tan Detailed Reviews
1. The Magnificent Kojic Acid Brightening Soap Bars – Japanese Complex with Turmeric
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to glow with The Magnificent Kojic Acid Brightening Soap Bars! This Japanese-inspired soap is packed with good stuff. It has turmeric, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, retinol, shea butter, and vitamin E. This soap is designed to make your skin look brighter and feel amazing. You get two bars and a holder in the pack.
What We Like:
- Enhances skin radiance. The soap helps your skin look brighter and more even.
- Gentle cleansing. The soap cleans without drying out your skin. It is free from harsh chemicals.
- Hydration is key. It has ingredients like hyaluronic acid to keep your skin soft and smooth.
- Antioxidants are good. Vitamin E and turmeric help refresh your skin.
- Supports skin renewal. Retinol and Vitamin C help your skin look fresher.
- Safe for daily use. It is tested and gentle.
What Could Be Improved:
- None mentioned.
This soap is a good pick if you want brighter, healthier-looking skin. It’s gentle enough for daily use, making it a simple way to improve your skincare routine!
2. Bondi Sands Body Wash
Rating: 9.0/10
Keep your tan looking fresh with the Bondi Sands Body Wash! This body wash is made to work with your self-tanner. You can use it every day without worrying about your tan fading. It gently cleanses and softens your skin. The body wash also smells like a delicious toasted coconut. It’s a great way to keep your skin healthy and your tan looking its best.
What We Like:
- It is safe for self-tanners.
- The pH-balanced formula cleans and softens your skin.
- It leaves no oily feeling.
- It is made with Aloe Vera to nourish your skin.
- It has a yummy toasted coconut scent.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may prefer a different scent.
Bondi Sands Body Wash is a great addition to your daily routine if you use self-tanner. It will help you keep your tan longer and keep your skin feeling great.
3. GLMR Works Tan Eraser Spray and Self Tan Remover Exfoliating Mitt
Rating: 8.7/10
The GLMR Works Tan Eraser Spray and Self Tan Remover Exfoliating Mitt is a must-have for anyone who loves a sun-kissed glow. This mitt helps you remove old fake tan and get your skin ready for a fresh application. It’s a double-sided glove, so you can choose the level of exfoliation you need. Salon professionals have recommended it since 2014. It’s designed to work with all types of self-tanners and professional spray tans.
What We Like:
- The mitt removes fake tan easily.
- It prepares your skin before you apply new tan.
- You can use it with any self-tanning product.
- You only need water to use it.
- The mitt is reusable.
- You can wash it in the washing machine.
What Could Be Improved:
- There are no cons to mention.
Overall, the GLMR Works Tan Eraser Mitt is a great tool for anyone who uses self-tanner. It’s easy to use, effective, and helps you keep your tan looking its best.
4. Bali Body Express Tan Remover
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of streaky self-tanner? The Bali Body Express Tan Remover is here to save the day! This product is a game-changer for anyone who loves a sun-kissed glow. It removes old fake tan quickly and easily. It’s also an exfoliating body scrub. It helps you get smooth, even skin. Get ready for a fresh start and a flawless tan application every time!
What We Like:
- Removes self-tanner fast, without hard scrubbing.
- Exfoliates skin with natural ingredients like pumice.
- Hydrates and soothes skin with glycerin and grapefruit oil.
- Smells great with a refreshing grapefruit scent.
- Works on all types of self-tanners.
- It is vegan and good for the skin.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might want a more powerful exfoliation.
- The price could be a bit higher compared to other products.
The Bali Body Express Tan Remover is a great way to get rid of old self-tanner and get ready for a new application. It makes your skin feel amazing and leaves you with a beautiful glow. This is a must-have for any self-tanning routine!
5. Belloccio Spray Tanning Equipment Cleaner
Rating: 9.4/10
Keep your spray tanning equipment in top shape with the Belloccio Spray Tanning Equipment Cleaner! This 16-ounce bottle is a lifesaver for anyone who spray tans. It’s made to quickly clean your spray guns, airbrushes, and other equipment. This cleaner removes dried-on tanning solution and helps everything work smoothly. It’s easy to use and keeps your equipment working for a long time.
What We Like:
- The 16-ounce bottle is big and lasts a while.
- It’s safe and ready to use.
- Works with all spray tanning equipment brands.
- It cleans quickly and removes dried solution.
- Helps keep your equipment running well.
- It is non-toxic and safe for the environment.
- It can clean more than just tanning equipment.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product’s effectiveness may vary depending on the type of tanning solution used.
This Belloccio cleaner is a must-have for anyone who spray tans. It will help you keep your equipment clean and working great!
Soap Before Your Spray Tan: The Smart Shopper’s Guide
Getting a spray tan is exciting! But, getting the right soap before your appointment is super important. This guide helps you choose the best soap for a perfect, long-lasting tan.
Key Features to Look For
You need a soap that preps your skin perfectly. Here are some key features to consider:
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Gentle Cleansing:
You want a soap that cleans without drying out your skin. Look for soaps that are mild and won’t strip away your natural oils. This helps your tan stick around longer.
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Exfoliation:
Some soaps have gentle exfoliants. These help remove dead skin cells. This makes your tan smoother and more even. Look for soaps with small beads or natural exfoliants.
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Oil-Free Formula:
This is very important! Oils can create a barrier on your skin. This will make your spray tan not stick. Choose soaps that are oil-free.
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pH-Balanced:
A soap with a balanced pH helps your skin stay healthy. This is important for the tan to develop correctly.
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Scent:
Choose a soap with a light scent. Strong fragrances can sometimes react with the tanning solution.
Important Materials to Consider
What’s in the soap matters! Here are some ingredients to look for and avoid:
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Look For:
- Glycerin: This helps to hydrate your skin.
- Natural exfoliants: Such as sugar or fine granules of walnut shells.
- Aloe Vera: This can soothe and calm your skin.
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Avoid These:
- Oils: Mineral oil, coconut oil, and other oils will ruin your tan.
- Heavy moisturizers: These can also create a barrier.
- Sulfates (SLS/SLES): These can dry out your skin.
- Harsh chemicals: These can irritate your skin.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all soaps are created equal. Here’s how to tell a good soap from a bad one:
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Quality Boosters:
- Natural ingredients: Soaps with natural ingredients are often gentler.
- Brand reputation: Look for brands known for quality skincare products.
- Reviews: Read what other people say about the soap.
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Quality Reducers:
- Harsh chemicals: These can damage your skin and your tan.
- Strong fragrances: These can sometimes cause reactions.
- Cheap ingredients: These can lead to a poor-quality product.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use the soap? Here’s what to think about:
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Before Your Spray Tan:
Use the soap 24 hours before your appointment. This gives it time to work.
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In the Shower:
Lather the soap gently. Use a washcloth or your hands.
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Focus Areas:
Pay extra attention to areas prone to dryness. This includes elbows, knees, and ankles.
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After Use:
Rinse well and pat your skin dry. Do not apply any lotion or moisturizer.
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Use Cases:
- Preparing for a special event: This soap will help you get a flawless tan.
- Maintaining a tan: Using the right soap helps your tan last longer.
- For all skin types: Choose a soap that suits your skin’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When should I use the soap before my spray tan?
A: Use the soap 24 hours before your spray tan appointment.
Q: Can I use any soap before a spray tan?
A: No! You need an oil-free soap. Other soaps can affect your tan.
Q: What ingredients should I avoid in my pre-tan soap?
A: Avoid oils, heavy moisturizers, sulfates, and harsh chemicals.
Q: What ingredients are good in a pre-tan soap?
A: Look for glycerin, gentle exfoliants, and aloe vera.
Q: Should I exfoliate before using the soap?
A: Some soaps have gentle exfoliants. You don’t need to scrub harshly.
Q: How long should I shower before my spray tan?
A: Showering 24 hours before is ideal to allow the soap to fully work.
Q: Can I use a loofah with the soap?
A: Yes, but be gentle. Don’t scrub too hard.
Q: What happens if I use the wrong soap?
A: Your tan might be uneven, patchy, or fade quickly.
Q: Is it okay to moisturize after using the soap?
A: No, do not apply any lotion or moisturizer after using the soap before your spray tan.
Q: How do I know if a soap is oil-free?
A: Read the label carefully. Look for “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic” on the packaging.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.