Medically Reviewed June 2023, by Charlotte Tundy, Regional Nurse Trainer, for sk:n. Next review due June 2024.
Some women like to add a bit of a bronzy glow to their skin no matter what time of year and apply fake tan as part of their daily regime.

If this sounds like you, then it would be useful knowing more about the various hair removal procedures available, because hair removal can play a big role in the preparation and maintenance of your fake tan.

Below are a number of hair removal tips:

Tip 1:

After fake tanning, wait 2-3 days before shaving again

The first step to bear in mind when shaving is that it’s best to wet shave then dry shave as this will be less irritating to the skin. If you are one of those people who sees shaving as a quick fix to being hair free then ensures it’s done 24 hours in advance so you are still able to see the full effects of the fake tan.

After fake tanning, it’s wise to wait 2-3 days before shaving again as there is a risk this will remove some of your fake tans, resulting in your skin looking patchy and unattractive.

Tip 2:

Waxing should be done 48 hours in advance before applying fake tan

Waxing can react more vigorously to our skin than shaving so it’s important you allow at least 48 hours before applying a fake tan. Exfoliate and moisturise well the following day, after your wax. Waxing usually removes a lot of fake tan, so it’s best to wait for as long as possible before going ahead with your fake tan again.

Tip 3:

Hair removal cream should be used 24 hours in advance before applying fake tan

Use hair removal cream 24 hours in advance of fake tanning. Too many chemicals on your skin at once can lead to excessive irritation. Most importantly, doing it after fake tanning will remove your tan because of the high level of chemicals. We would suggest waiting 24 hours before fake tanning.

Tip 4:

You should wait 1-2 weeks after a laser hair removal treatment session before using fake tan

It is highly recommended, as would also be advised by your dermatologist to wait at least 1-2 weeks after a hair removal laser treatment session before using fake tan. You have to be extra cautious with your skin during your laser hair removal treatment sessions to avoid any form of damage to your skin.

Therefore, mixing fake tans straight after your treatment at your regular laser hair removal clinic would not be the greatest idea.