Avoiding the lizard skin (spray tanning)

Have you ever looked closely at your spray tan and realized that you're starting to resemble a lizard or alligator? This is a common problem that we typically see on the shins or on the inner arms - so how do you avoid it in the first place? 

It begins with the before care. Make sure you use a good oil free scrub to remove the dead skin cells while evening out the layer of skin.  It is important that the scrub is oil-free so that you don't create a barrier on the skin before your spray tan. Low on cash or don't have a scrub on hand? Try this homemade organic scrub - Pumpkin Honey Baking Soda scrub (it's only 3 ingredients!)

Your second defense against the lizard look is your after care. Depending on the solution you were sprayed in (regular or rapid) your aftercare may be different, so always follow the recommendation you were given. Not all moisturizers are spray tan compatible.  Shelf your Dove brand moisturizer for your non spray tan days! I wouldn't use those lovely scented Bath and Body Works brands either. Some of the better lotions are organic. Try Hempz brand Triple Moisturizer for great smelling, tan extending moisturizer. Use it at least two times a day. An alternative is extra virgin coconut oil. Follow Fitness Blender's article for directions to using coconut oil on your skin. Coconut oil has some great benefits, but it does absorb faster into your skin and may need to use it more than twice a day. 

Lastly, layering spray tan on spray tan is a no-no. If your skin is still bearing spray tan on it from the prior week, wait another day before getting another application. Thoroughly prep your skin as indicated above. 

Have you followed these steps and still seeing the problem? Comment below and I can help troubleshoot the issue.

Do you have a tip you want to add? Please share it with us in the comments below!