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Best Exfoliator Before Spray Tan (2025 Updated)

If you’re looking for the perfect spray tan, you can’t neglect the important step of exfoliation. Without a good exfoliator, the spray tan can become patchy, uneven, and may not last as long. So, it’s crucial to prep your skin well before applying the spray tan.

But what factors do you need to consider when purchasing an exfoliator for your spray tan? First, look for exfoliators that are gentle on your skin. Harsh exfoliators can cause skin irritation and leave behind tiny scars or bruises. Second, select an exfoliator that’s free from oils, moisturizers, or any barriers that could interfere with the spray tan application. Last but not least, opt for exfoliators that are easy to use and don’t require too much elbow grease.

Now, you might be wondering, "Why is exfoliating important before a spray tan?" Well, firstly, exfoliating removes any dead skin cells, dry patches, or product buildup that can prevent your tanning solution from penetrating evenly. Secondly, it improves your skin's texture and softness, leaving you with a smooth and polished canvas for the spray tan. Lastly, it helps to prevent the spray tan from fading quickly, making it last longer.

So, whether you're a spray tan newbie or a seasoned pro, exfoliating is essential for achieving a flawless, natural-looking tan. Find the right exfoliator for your skin and enjoy an even and long-lasting tan that will make you feel confident and beautiful!

9 Best Exfoliator Before Spray Tan

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for exfoliating and removing self-tanner, preparing the skin for a new application.
2
The product is ideal for removing dead skin, spray tan, or keratosis pilaris with the use of exfoliating mitts.
3
The product is ideal for exfoliating and moisturizing skin, toning skin, reducing cellulite, and deep cleansing scars and wrinkles.
4
The product is ideal for exfoliating the skin and addressing issues such as blackheads, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and fine lines.
5
Ideal for exfoliating and treating keratosis pilaris, reducing bumps and improving skin texture on the body.
6
It is ideal for improving skin tone and texture, while being oil-free, soap-free, hypoallergenic, and containing soy extract.
7
This product is ideal for exfoliating and hydrating the body for essential nourishment.
8
The product is ideal for at-home sunless tanning, providing a mobile HVLP spray tan airbrush machine and tanning solutions.
9
The product is ideal for achieving a natural-looking tan on the face without clogging pores or causing skin irritation.
This product is ideal for exfoliating and removing self-tanner, preparing the skin for a new application.
The product is ideal for removing dead skin, spray tan, or keratosis pilaris with the use of exfoliating mitts.
The product is ideal for exfoliating and moisturizing skin, toning skin, reducing cellulite, and deep cleansing scars and wrinkles.
The product is ideal for exfoliating the skin and addressing issues such as blackheads, enlarged pores, wrinkles, and fine lines.
Ideal for exfoliating and treating keratosis pilaris, reducing bumps and improving skin texture on the body.
It is ideal for improving skin tone and texture, while being oil-free, soap-free, hypoallergenic, and containing soy extract.
This product is ideal for exfoliating and hydrating the body for essential nourishment.
The product is ideal for at-home sunless tanning, providing a mobile HVLP spray tan airbrush machine and tanning solutions.
The product is ideal for achieving a natural-looking tan on the face without clogging pores or causing skin irritation.

1. Modelco Tan-Off Exfoliating Soap

Say goodbye to fake tan residue with the powerful and effective Self Tan Eraser. This self tanner eraser works instantly, lightening and removing fake tan that's up to 8-10 days old. It also doubles as a sunless primer, exfoliating and polishing the skin to effectively remove any impurities and prepare it for a new tan application.

The Self Tan Eraser is your secret weapon for removing unwanted tan from difficult areas such as between the fingers and toes. You no longer have to worry about uneven or patchy tans. This product works as a spray tan remover or for sunless tanning lotion, mousse, and cream. It is perfect for those who want a clean slate before applying a fresh layer of sunless tanner.

This self tanner eraser comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason you are not happy with your purchase, you can contact the seller for a full refund, no return necessary. With the Self Tan Eraser, you can confidently remove any unwanted tan and prepare your skin for a new and even application.

Pros

  • Powerful and effective self tanner eraser
  • Works instantly to lighten and remove fake tan up to 8-10 days old
  • Doubles as a sunless primer, exfoliating and polishing the skin to remove impurities
  • Easily removes unwanted tan from difficult areas such as between the fingers and toes
  • Works as a spray tan remover or for sunless tanning lotion, mousse, and cream
  • Comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee

2. Seraphic Exfoliating Mitts: At-Home Microdermabrasion

Bring the experience of a Korean spa treatment to your home with the Shower Exfoliator for Home Use. This body-exfoliating scrub mitt provides full microdermabrasion to visibly lift away dead skin, revealing smoother and fresher skin. The 100% viscose construction of this microdermabrasion mitt makes it great for buffing out self-tanner without being too harsh, and can also be used to prep the skin before applying tanner. Unlike loofahs and chemical exfoliants, the viscose shower exfoliator has excellent skin-gripping power, making it more effective at removing dead skin. Use the mitts 2-4 times a month to enjoy better product absorption, fewer bumps and ingrown hairs, and increased circulation. Fight back against dry, bumpy skin caused by keratosis pilaris and reveal a heavenly glow with the use of these Korean scrub mitts.

Pros

  • Provides full microdermabrasion to visibly lift away dead skin
  • Smoothest skin ever
  • Can be used to buff out self-tanner without being too harsh
  • More effective at removing dead skin than loofahs and chemical exfoliants
  • Can be used to fight back against dry, bumpy skin caused by keratosis pilaris
  • Increases circulation

3. Collagen-Infused Salt Scrub For Ultimate Skin Exfoliation.

M3 Naturals Himalayan Salt Foot Scrub is a versatile product that can be used not only as a foot scrub but also as a body scrub, facial scrub, lip scrub or hand scrub. It is enriched with Himalayan salt and lychee oil, which are known for their moisturizing and antioxidant properties. The scrub helps to restore natural skin and eliminate toxins and dead skin cells.

This exfoliating and moisturizing foot scrub contains collagen and stem cells that boost collagen production and increase skin cell longevity. It also contains grapeseed oil that delivers powerful anti-aging results. The unique blend of ingredients helps to reduce the appearance of acne, cellulite, blackheads, wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, shaving bumps, stretch marks, scars, spider veins, blemishes and more.

M3 Naturals Himalayan Salt Foot Scrub delivers spa-quality results by gently removing unwanted toxins from the pores, adding moisture, and balancing systemic pH. It is a top-quality pore minimizer that revitalizes healthy skin and maintains glowing results. The scrub is a perfect bonus to your pedicure kit for an at-home foot spa to enjoy yourself or as a relaxing gift.

M3 Naturals Himalayan Salt Foot Scrub is made in the USA with the highest quality natural ingredients that are cruelty-free. It is an excellent addition to any skincare regimen for all ages.

Pros

  • Versatile product that can be used as a foot scrub, body scrub, facial scrub, lip scrub or hand scrub
  • Enriched with Himalayan salt and lychee oil, which are known for their moisturizing and antioxidant properties
  • Contains collagen and stem cells that boost collagen production and increase skin cell longevity
  • Reduces the appearance of acne, cellulite, blackheads, wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, shaving bumps, stretch marks, scars, spider veins, and blemishes
  • Delivers spa-quality results by gently removing unwanted toxins, adding moisture, and balancing systemic pH
  • Made in the USA with the highest quality natural ingredients that are cruelty-free

4. Clear Skin Solution: Paula's Choice Bha Exfoliant

The Gentle Non-Abrasive Leave-On Exfoliator is an effective skincare solution that helps to unclog and diminish enlarged pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles, and brighten and even out skin tone. This leave-on exfoliator contains 2% BHA (Beta hydroxy acid) that combats redness, wrinkles, aging, enlarged pores, and blackheads. The packaging may vary but the formula remains the same.

The Beta hydroxy acid (BHA), also known as salicylic acid, mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin by helping it shed extra layers while unclogging and clearing pores. It hydrates, brightens, and smooths fine lines without causing any abrasion. This unique, non-abrasive exfoliant is gentle enough for daily use on all skin types and visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles.

Unlike an abrasive face scrub that can cause micro-tears, Paula's Choice facial exfoliants are gentler on delicate skin of the face and neck. A BHA leave-on exfoliator delivers hydration and can exfoliate directly inside the pore, improving how the pore works. Use Paula's Choice for highly effective skin care solutions for the face and body. The full line of facial cleansers, exfoliators, toners, moisturizers, serums, eye creams, facial masks, sunscreens, body washes, and more are made to care for every kind of skin.

Pros

  • Contains 2% BHA that helps to unclog and diminish enlarged pores
  • Exfoliates dead skin cells, smooth wrinkles, and brighten and even out skin tone
  • Gentle enough for daily use on all skin types and visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles
  • Hydrates, brightens, and smooths fine lines without causing any abrasion
  • Gentler on delicate skin of the face and neck

5. First Aid Beauty Kp Bump Eraser Body Scrub Exfoliant For Keratosis Pilaris With 10% Aha – 8 Oz

The Exfoliating Body Scrub is a perfect solution for those who want to get rid of dry and rough bumps on their skin. With a combination of chemical and physical exfoliators, this scrub helps to reveal healthier-looking skin that feels exceptionally smooth.

This fast-acting KP body scrub is an ideal solution to reduce skin bumps quickly. It delivers the benefits of a chemical peel and microdermabrasion treatment in one. Whether you call it “strawberry skin” or “chicken skin”, this scrub will make it gone.

This body scrub contains Glycolic and Lactic Acids at a combined level of 10% that help loosen skin’s top layer and decongest pores. Pumice Buffing Beads, which are not microplastic, whisk away all the dead skin cells, making your skin look radiant and smooth.

The Exfoliating Body Scrub is free from harmful chemicals such as drying alcohols, artificial colorants, artificial fragrance, lanolin, mineral oil, parabens, petrolatum, phthalates, propylene glycol, sulfates, talc, formaldehydes, oxybenzone, coal tar, triclocarbon, and ethanol.

This vegan and cruelty-free exfoliating body scrub is dermatologist tested, gluten-free, nut-free, oil-free, soy-free, silicone-free, safe for sensitive skin, and nano-free.

It is important to note that this product contains Glycolic and Lactic Acids that may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun and particularly the possibility of sunburn. Therefore, it is recommended to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterwards.

Pros

  • Chemical and physical exfoliators sweep away dry, rough bumps
  • Helps to reveal healthier-looking skin that feels exceptionally smooth
  • Fast-acting KP body scrub that delivers the benefits of a chemical peel and microdermabrasion treatment in one
  • Glycolic and Lactic Acids at a combined level of 10% help loosen skin’s top layer and decongest pores
  • Pumice Buffing Beads whisk away all the dead skin cells
  • Free from harmful chemicals such as drying alcohols, artificial colorants, artificial fragrance, lanolin, mineral oil, parabens, petrolatum, phthalates, propylene glycol, sulfates, talc, formaldehydes, oxybenzone, coal tar, triclocarbon, and ethanol
  • Vegan and cruelty-free exfoliating body scrub
  • Dermatologist tested, gluten-free, nut-free, oil-free, soy-free, silicone-free, safe for sensitive skin, and nano-free

Cons

  • – May increase skin’s sensitivity to the sun and particularly the possibility of sunburn

6. Aveeno Radiant Facial Scrub – Improve Skin Texture

Achieve softer and brighter skin with Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Face Scrub. This 5-ounce tube contains a unique formula that cleanses and buffs away dead skin, surface impurities, and oil. The scrub is designed to improve the skin's tone and texture, revealing a radiant and youthful-looking skin. The brightening facial exfoliant scrub contains moisture-rich soy extract and naturally derived granules that gently exfoliate and cleanse the skin, while removing dirt, oil, and bacteria. It is gentle enough for everyday use and sensitive skin. The daily exfoliating face wash reveals your skin's natural texture and glow while helping even out the skin tone.

The Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Face Scrub is from a dermatologist recommended brand. It is soap-free, oil-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, sulfate-free, dye-free, and hypoallergenic. The product is suitable for everyday use in a beauty or skincare routine and is non-comedogenic, so it won't clog your pores. The scrub uses soy extract to target the skin tone and texture to reveal radiant-looking, smooth, youthful, and healthy-looking skin. This product is a part of the Aveeno Positively Radiant collection that is designed to enhance your natural radiance and give you a lit-from-within glow.

Pros

  • Gently exfoliates and cleanses the skin
  • Improves skin's tone and texture
  • Moisturizes skin with soy extract
  • Soap-free, oil-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, sulfate-free, dye-free, and hypoallergenic
  • Suitable for everyday use in a beauty or skincare routine
  • Non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores

7. Mango Hydrating Sugar Scrub For Essential Body Care.

The 100% Pure Natural Shea Butter is an excellent deep moisturizer that effectively softens and smoothens dry and cracked skin. This premium product is enriched with various skin conditioners that prevent dryness and give your skin a refined and healthy glow. The combination of Safflower Seed Oil, Avocado Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Macadamia Seed Oil, and Orange Oil is an amazing blend that provides maximum skin nourishment.

The Mango Puree present in this product is of high quality and acts as a natural moisturizer, leaving your skin soft and smooth. The pleasant fragrance of Mango Puree is an added bonus that makes this product irresistible. This product is also free from harmful chemicals such as parabens and formaldehyde donors. You can trust this product for healthy skincare that is safe for your skin and the environment.

This product is proudly made in the USA by a world-class professional cosmetics team in an American beauty lab. The product is made with utmost care and precision to ensure that you receive the best quality product that meets your expectations.

Pros

  • Effectively softens and smoothens dry and cracked skin.
  • Enriched with various skin conditioners that prevent dryness and give your skin a refined and healthy glow.
  • Combination of Safflower Seed Oil, Avocado Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Macadamia Seed Oil, and Orange Oil provides maximum skin nourishment.
  • Mango Puree present in this product is of high quality and acts as a natural moisturizer, leaving your skin soft and smooth.
  • Free from harmful chemicals such as parabens and formaldehyde donors.
  • Proudly made in the USA by a world-class professional cosmetics team in an American beauty lab.

8. Mobile Sunless Tanning System + Training Program

Achieve a salon-quality tan in the comfort of your own home with the Norvell M-1000 HVLP Mobile Spray System Bundle. This top-rated bundle includes the Norvell M-1000 HVLP Mobile Spray System, Norvell Tanning Handheld Solutions in Ultra Vivid 'Cosmo' 8oz, Venetian 8oz, and Dark 8oz, and the Norvell Training Program.

The Norvell M-1000 HVLP Mobile Spray System features a lightweight design that delivers the optimal spray for a smooth application. The bundle includes a mobile M1000 turbine, 10' quick connect/disconnect hose, M Series HVLP spray gun, standard 110v electrical cord, spray gun quick repair kit, operation manual, and shoulder strap for added portability. This system is designed to work perfectly with the Norvell Pop-Up Tent.

Norvell Tanning Handheld Solutions are formulated with micro-nutrient technology that delivers a potent blend of vitamins and antioxidants to boost the skin's natural bronze tan without the orange undertones. These spray tan solutions are fragrance-free and enhanced with natural essences. They are also formulated without parabens, gluten, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, petrochemicals, GMOs, or triclosan.

With the Norvell Training Program, you can learn the fundamentals and science of sunless tanning from the experts. Rated as the #1 professional sunless tanning brand by professional spray tan artists/technicians in October 2017 (research conducted by Fieldwork/Webwork International Inc., a global leading market research company), Norvell Sunless is a brand that you can trust to deliver the perfect tan every time.

Pros

  • Lightweight and portable design for easy use at home or on-the-go
  • Formulated with micro-nutrient technology for a natural bronze tan without orange undertones
  • Fragrance-free and enhanced with natural essences
  • Formulated without harmful ingredients such as parabens, gluten, sulfates, and synthetic fragrance
  • Comes with a professional training program to learn the science of sunless tanning

9. St Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist For Women, 2.7 Fl Oz

Experience the refreshing and revitalizing sensation of this lightweight product that requires no rinsing off. Made in France, this product is designed to leave your skin looking and feeling refreshed and healthy.

Say goodbye to tired-looking skin! This product helps to revive and refresh your skin, leaving it looking noticeably healthier after application. Its unique formula is designed to give you the best possible results with minimal effort.

This product is perfect for anyone who is looking for a quick and easy way to keep their skin looking and feeling great. Simply apply it to your face and let it work its magic. No rinsing is required, making it perfect for use on the go or when you don't have time for a full skincare routine.

Pros

  • Lightweight and refreshing formula
  • No need to rinse off
  • Revives and refreshes tired-looking skin
  • Leaves skin looking noticeably healthier
  • Easy to use

Best Exfoliator Before Spray Tan FAQs

Can I use a body scrub as an exfoliator before a spray tan?

Yes, you can use a body scrub as an exfoliator before a spray tan. In fact, it is highly recommended that you exfoliate your skin before getting a spray tan. Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells and other impurities from the surface of your skin, which can prevent the spray tan from adhering evenly and result in a patchy or streaky appearance. Using a body scrub can help to ensure that your skin is smooth and free of any rough patches or bumps that could interfere with the spray tan application.

When choosing a body scrub to use before your spray tan, it is important to select a gentle formula that will not irritate your skin or cause any inflammation. Avoid using scrubs that contain harsh chemicals or abrasive particles that could damage your skin. Instead, opt for a gentle, natural scrub that will help to gently exfoliate your skin without causing any irritation or damage.

Overall, using a body scrub as an exfoliator before a spray tan can help to ensure that your tan looks smooth, even, and natural. By taking the time to properly prepare your skin before your spray tan appointment, you can achieve the best possible results and enjoy a beautiful, long-lasting tan.

How long before a spray tan should I exfoliate?

It is recommended to exfoliate your skin at least 24 hours before a spray tan. Exfoliating helps to remove any dead skin cells and create a smooth base for the spray tan to adhere to. However, it's important not to exfoliate too close to the time of your spray tan, as this can cause the skin to become sensitive and potentially lead to streaks or uneven application.

It's also important to avoid using any oil-based exfoliators or moisturizers before your spray tan, as these can act as a barrier and prevent the spray tan solution from properly absorbing into the skin. Stick to a gentle, water-based exfoliant and make sure to moisturize your skin thoroughly after exfoliating to ensure a smooth and even application.

Overall, it's best to follow the specific instructions provided by your spray tan technician or the product manufacturer to ensure the best possible results.

Should I use an exfoliator before getting a spray tan?

Yes, it is recommended to use an exfoliator before getting a spray tan. Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells, which can cause uneven tanning and patchiness. By exfoliating, you are creating a smooth surface for the spray tan solution to adhere to, resulting in a more even and natural-looking tan. It is best to exfoliate the day before your spray tan appointment, using a gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt. Avoid using oil-based products or heavy moisturizers immediately before your spray tan, as this can create a barrier between your skin and the tanning solution. It is also important to follow the instructions provided by your spray tan technician, as they may have specific recommendations for preparation and aftercare. Overall, exfoliating before a spray tan can help to ensure a flawless and long-lasting result.

What type of exfoliator should I use before a spray tan?

Before getting a spray tan, it's important to prep your skin to ensure an even and long-lasting tan. Exfoliation is a crucial step in this process. However, not all exfoliators are created equal, and some can actually hinder the tanning process.

It's best to avoid using oil-based exfoliators as they can create a barrier that prevents the spray tan from fully developing. Instead, opt for a gentle, water-based exfoliator that will remove dead skin cells without leaving any residue. Look for exfoliators with natural ingredients like sugar, salt, or coffee grounds, as they are effective yet gentle on the skin.

It's also important to exfoliate at the right time. Avoid exfoliating immediately before your spray tan appointment as it can cause irritation and streaking. Instead, exfoliate 24-48 hours beforehand to allow your skin to fully recover.

In conclusion, a gentle, water-based exfoliator with natural ingredients is the best choice before a spray tan. Remember to exfoliate at least 24 hours beforehand to ensure a flawless, long-lasting tan.

Will using an exfoliator before a spray tan help it last longer?

Exfoliation is an essential step in preparing for a spray tan. It helps to remove dead skin cells, which can cause an uneven application of the tan. However, the question remains whether exfoliating before a spray tan can help it last longer. The answer is yes. Exfoliating before a spray tan can help it last longer. When you exfoliate, you remove the dead skin cells that can cause the tan to fade. This means that the tan will be able to adhere better to your skin, giving it a more even application. Additionally, exfoliating before your spray tan will help to ensure that the tan lasts for a longer period of time. When you exfoliate, you are also helping to increase blood flow to the skin, which can increase the longevity of the tan. So, if you want your spray tan to last longer, make sure to exfoliate before your appointment.

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