Bath Exfoliating Mitts & Tanning Mitts – How to Use Them?
Deep Exfoliating Mitt & Self Tanning Mitt – How to Use Them?
The core logic of pairing these two tools is simple:
The deep exfoliating mitt "paves the road"; the self tanning mitt "lays the color."
They are used at different stages of the tanning process — never at the same time — and serve completely different purposes.
One Removes, One Applies:
| Tool | Purpose | When to Use |
| Viscose exfoliating mitt | Physically removes dead skin cells and rough patches to create a smooth, even canvas | Before tanning (ideally 1 day prior) |
| Self-tanning application mitt | Applies tanning mousse/lotion evenly while keeping your palms stain-free | During tanning application |
The correct workflow: Exfoliate first, then apply tanning
Follow this timeline for the best results:
Step 1 – The Day Before Tanning
Take a warm shower and use an fake tan exfoliator mitt to gently scrub your entire body.
Pay extra attention to dry, rough areas like:Elbows, Knees, Ankles, Knuckles and Heels.
💡 Why? Self-tanner works by reacting with the outermost layer of your skin (the stratum corneum). If that layer is uneven or clogged with dead skin, the color will develop in patches — leading to the dreaded "zebra stripes" or "dirty hands" look.
Step 2 – On Tanning Day
Take another shower (just rinse with water — no soap or scrub).
Pat your skin completely dry with a towel.
Apply a thin layer of moisturizer, especially on joints and dry spots, to prevent over-absorption.
Step 3 – During Tanning Application
Put on your self-tanning application mitt.
Squeeze the tanning mousse/lotion onto the velvet side of the mitt (not directly on your skin).
Apply in circular or sweeping motions, working from your feet upward.
For joints (elbows, knees), lightly sweep over them — don't layer on extra product.
⚠️ Critical Warning: No fake tan exfoliator mitt after tanning
This is the #1 mistake beginners make:
Once your tan is developed, put away the viscose exfoliating mitt for good — for the entire duration of your tan.
Here's why:
The tanned color sits only on the very top layer of your skin (the same layer you just exfoliated).
Using an deep exfoliating mitt, scrub, or loofah after tanning will physically strip off that colored layer — prematurely and unevenly.
You'll end up with patchy, faded, or completely ruined results within days.
Post-tan care tips:
When showering, use only your hands with a mild body wash — no scrubbers, no mitts.
After washing, pat your skin dry with a towel (don't rub back and forth).
Moisturize daily to extend the life of your tan.
📝 Summary (Remember These 3 Rules)
What It Means
✅ Exfoliate BEFORE tanning -----Use the deep exfoliating mitt to prep your skin 1 day prior
✅ Apply WITH a self tanning mitt------Protects your palms and ensures even coverage
❌ NO exfoliating AFTER tanning------Keep the viscose exfoliating mitt away until your tan has completely faded
