how to maximise your tan on a budget

*aka selftanmaxxing*

we get it. keeping your tan looking fresh can start to feel expensive. new gloves, endless bottles, exfoliators, moisturisers, the list goes on. but getting the most out of your tan doesn’t have to mean spending more.

at b·bold, we’re all about premium results with purse friendly price tags. a little prep, the right routine and choosing a formula that works for you can take your tan a long way.

prep 24 hours before you tan

good tan starts before you even pick up the bottle.

ideally, exfoliate around 24 hours before tanning to remove old tan and dry skin and create a smoother base. pay extra attention to areas where tan can cling, like elbows, knees, ankles and hands.

if you shave, it’s also best to do this 24 hours before your tan rather than immediately beforehand.

moisturise dry areas after exfoliating, but give your skin time to fully absorb it before tanning. applying moisturiser immediately before your tan can create a barrier between the formula and your skin, which can affect how evenly your tan applies and develops.

make your tan last longer

the easiest way to get more out of your tan? make it last.

keep your skin moisturised once your tan has developed to help maintain your colour and keep skin feeling soft. avoid anything that can make your tan fade faster, like long, very hot showers, unnecessary scrubbing and oil-based moisturisers, which can break down self-tan more quickly.

when your colour starts to fade, gently exfoliate before your next application rather than layering fresh tan over uneven colour. a clean base means a smoother, more even result every time.

choose a formula that works for you

the best tan is the one that fits your skin, your routine and the result you want.

think about what your skin actually needs. do you want something quick? a buildable formula? an instant result? something lightweight for everyday wear?

b·bold has a range of formulas designed to suit different tanning routines, from our 60min express mousse for when you don’t have all day, to our serum and liquid formulas for a more skincare-focused application.

for a quick refresh between tanning days, our instant airbrush and instant body tint can help bring back that freshly-applied look without committing to a full tanning routine.

finding the right formula for you means fewer touch-ups, less faffing and a tan that works with your routine - not against it.

the b·bold golden rule

you don’t need a complicated routine to get a good tan.

prep your skin. choose the right formula. moisturise. look after your gloves. remove old tan before reapplying.

basically, make what you already have work harder - not you.