As busy women juggling careers, family responsibilities, and self-care, we're always looking for ways to simplify our beauty rituals that don't compromise on quality. Your sunless tanning routine should enhance your life, not complicate it. One question we hear constantly from our Sontse community: "What's the deal with moisturising and sunless tanning?", “Should I moisturize before self tanning?” Does moisturising help or hinder your golden glow? Let's dive into everything you need to know about keeping your skin hydrated while maintaining that perfect sun-kissed look with our Golden Hour Self-Tan Mousse and Sun Lit Face & Body Tan Mist.
Should you moisturise before fake tanning?
Do you moisturise before fake tan? The short answer? Absolutely, but with intention.
Proper preparation creates the perfect canvas for your sunless tan to shine.
Here's why moisturising before applying your sunless tanner matters:
- Creates an even surface: Dry patches can absorb more product, leading to those dreaded darker spots
- Prevents product buildup: Areas like knees, elbows, ankles, and hands tend to grip onto tanner (and we've all had the "Cheeto hands" experience at least once!)
- Ensures smooth application: Well-hydrated skin allows your Golden Hour Self-Tan Mousse to glide on effortlessly
Of course when answering the question, “Can you moisturise before fake tan?” We need to be clear: timing is everything. Apply your moisturiser 4-6 hours before you plan to tan, giving it time to fully absorb. If you're in a rush (hello, real life!), at minimum, apply a lightweight lotion to typically dry areas 30 minutes before tanning.
The best moisturisers to use before self-tanner (and what to avoid)
Not all moisturisers are created equal when prepping for your sunless tan. The right choice can make all the difference between "Did you just get back from vacation?" and "Oh... you tried to self-tan."
When shopping for a moisturiser that won't ruin your tan, look for bottles that specifically say "oil-free" on the label. Your skin will thank you for something lightweight that sinks in quickly rather than sitting on the surface.
Over here, we’ve found that moisturisers with aloe vera are particularly good - they seem to calm any post-tan redness while keeping everything hydrated. And of course, always check that what you're putting on your skin is non-toxic and skin-safe. Those cheap moisturisers might save you a few dollars, but they can destroy a perfectly good tan in just a day or two.
Avoid:
- Heavy, oil-based moisturisers
- Products with strong fragrances that might compete with your tanner
- Formulas containing retinol or AHAs (these can accelerate tan fading)
Still asking yourself: “Do I moisturise before fake tan?”
When deciding whether to put on lotion before self tanner, focus on targeted application. A light layer on drier areas like elbows, knees, ankles, wrists, and hands will prevent over-absorption while keeping the rest of your skin ready to receive that beautiful bronze. For best results, pair this prep with our Crystal Clear Face & Body Scrub for the perfect canvas before applying your sunless tan.
Just remember to space out the timing if you choose to moisturize before self tanner.
Can you moisturise after fake tan?
Here's where many sunless tanning journeys go awry. You've achieved that perfect golden glow, and now you're wondering if it’s ok to use moisturizer with self tanner.
The answer is not only can you moisturise after sunless tanning, but you absolutely should—with the right timing and products.
After your tan has fully developed (typically 1-4 hours for our Golden Hour Self-Tan Mousse after a rinse and 4-8 hours for our Sun Lit Face & Body Tan Mist, followed by a rinse), regular moisturising becomes your tan's best support. Hydrated skin actually helps preserve your colour by preventing excessive shedding of skin cells—those very cells that are carrying your gorgeous bronze hue.
As mother-of-two and Sontse fan Alison L. shared,
"This has been a total game changer! My kids used to always complain the day after I tanned and now they don't say a thing! There is literally NO smell! Gradual fade off too."
That gradual, even fade-off Alison mentions? It's achieved through consistent, proper post-tan care, including regular moisturising.
Of course, if you’ve been asking yourself “Can you put lotion on after self tanner?” We’re guessing you already have something you love in mind. Be careful to check your moisturiser and make sure it’s sunless tan friendly.
Best after tanning lotion: What to look for
Do you moisturise after fake tan? Choosing the right moisturiser after tanning can extend your glow by days. The best after tanning lotions share certain characteristics that preserve rather than diminish your sunless colour.
When selecting a good lotion for after tanning, prioritise:
- Hydrating ingredients: Look for hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and shea butter
- Oil-free formulations: Oils can break down DHA (the active tanning ingredient)
- pH-balanced products: Extremely alkaline products can accelerate tan fading
Avoid after-tan moisturisers containing:
- Mineral oils
- Petroleum
- Harsh exfoliants
- Strong fragrance (which might contain alcohol that dries skin)
Your post-tan moisturising routine doesn't need to be complicated. The simpler and more consistent, the better.
So the best moisturizer for fake tan?
A few Sontse recommendations for sunless tan-friendly moisturiser?
We personally love and adore:
- The Body Lotion Fragrance-Free from Nécessaire
- Dermaveen Extra Hydration
How to maintain your tan with the best after tan moisturisers
Maintaining your gorgeous glow isn't just about the products—it's about developing a sustainable routine that works with your busy life.
For those mornings when you barely have time to finish your coffee, keep these simple guidelines in mind:
- Make maintaining your tan a daily habit—Moisturise every single day, and if you can swing it, do it morning and night. Trust us, it makes all the difference.
- When you hop out of the shower, be kind to your skin! Patting dry is your friend—rubbing is the enemy.
- And speaking of showers, dial down that temperature. We know a hot shower feels amazing, but lukewarm is the way to go. Hot water strips your tan fast.
- Don't forget those trouble spots that always seem to fade first—hands (hello, constant washing), elbows, and feet need extra love. Our founder Jayde loves to keep a travel-sized moisturiser in her handbag just for midday touch-ups when her hands need a bit of reviving.
For busy mums and entrepreneurs who view sunless tanning as an everyday confidence boost rather than just for special occasions, consider the above tips for ultimate tanning radiance.
Common mistakes to avoid when moisturising fake tan
Even the most experienced sunless tanners can fall into these common traps:
Over-moisturising vs. under-moisturising
- Over-moisturising with heavy products can break down your tan faster
- Under-moisturising leads to dry, flaky skin that sheds colour unevenly
Using the wrong products
- Fragranced body washes and moisturisers often contain alcohol
- Exfoliating products (even when labelled as "moisturising") will remove your tan
Inconsistent application
- Applying moisturiser heavily one day and skipping the next creates uneven fading
- Focusing only on visible areas leads to patchy results
Does moisturiser with self-tanner work?
Gradual tanning moisturisers have their place in a sun-conscious beauty routine, but they serve a different purpose than your primary tanning products.
Pros of moisturiser with self-tanner
- Subtly builds colour over time
- Can extend the life of your current tan
- Often less intimidating for sunless tanning beginners
- Great for maintaining colour between full applications
Cons to consider
- Typically delivers lighter results than dedicated tanning products
- May not provide enough hydration for very dry skin
- Can be less predictable in colour development
- Often requires daily application for noticeable results
For the best of both worlds, use your primary Sontse products for your base tan, then use our Sun Lit Face & Body Tan Mist (with the most gorgeous skin-loving ingredients) in replacement of a gradual tanning moisturiser for maintenance as your tan begins to fade. Just a few spritz’s and your set.
How to fix dry patches and streaks with moisturiser
We've all been there—you notice uneven patches or streaky areas a day or two after tanning. Before you reach for the exfoliator and start over, try these moisturiser-based fixes:
- For slightly uneven areas: Mix equal parts moisturiser and a small amount of your Sun Lit Face & Body Tan Mist, then apply with our Absolutely Flawless Blending Brush in circular motions
- For darker patches: Apply a rich moisturiser, wait 5 minutes, then gently buff the area with a dry washcloth
- For clearly defined streaks: Dab a cotton ball with lemon juice, apply to the streak, wait 2-3 minutes, then blend with moisturiser
To prevent future issues, use moisturiser strategically before tanning.
Embracing the sunless lifestyle
There you have it, we’ve answered questions like “Should you moisturise after tanning?”, “Is moisturising before self-tanning ok?” and if so, “What should this look like?”
Why?
Because the choice to go sunless isn't just about achieving a beautiful bronze—it's about embracing a sun-conscious approach to beauty that honours both your appearance today and your skin's health tomorrow.
By understanding the critical relationship between moisturising and sunless tanning, you're not just optimising your glow—you're preserving your skin's natural beauty for years to come.
As you smooth that moisturiser over your gorgeously tanned skin each morning, remember that this small act of self-care represents something bigger: a commitment to beauty that doesn't compromise on health, a sophisticated approach to self-expression, and a mindful example for those watching how you choose to glow.
Because at Sontse, we believe that the most radiant beauty comes from choices that nurture rather than damage—and that includes how you care for your sunless tan.
Ready to elevate your sunless tanning experience?
Explore our complete collection of Australian-made, vegan-friendly tanning products like our Golden Hour Self-Tan Mousse, Sun Lit Face & Body Tan Mist, and our bestselling UV-Free Dream Team Bundle at sontse.com.au.
Written By Liana Pantalone – Beauty & Skincare Copywriter at Climbing Vine Co.
