Spring has officially sprung, and you know what that means. But before you reach for your favorite Fake Bake bottle to achieve that "just back from the beach" glow, we need to talk about the most important step in your routine. If you’re wondering why your tan sometimes looks patchy, fades too fast, or clings to your elbows like it’s holding on for dear life, the answer is simple: You skipped the scrub.

At Fake Bake, we have a golden rule: Your self-tan is only as good as the canvas you put it on. Here is why this step is non-negotiable, and why our In The Buff Exfoliating Mitt is about to become your new best friend.

New Season, Fresh Scrubbed Skin

During the winter, our skin goes into survival mode. Cold air and indoor heating lead to a buildup of dry, dead skin cells. If you apply self-tanner directly over this buildup, the DHA (the tanning ingredient) will soak into those dead cells more intensely than the healthy skin underneath. The result? A potentially uneven, muddy finish. Exfoliating sweeps away the "winter coat" and reveals a fresh, smooth surface ready for pigment.

Want your glow to last seven days instead of three? Exfoliation is the secret. When you tan on top of dead skin, that tan is going to flake off as soon as those cells naturally shed. By exfoliating first, you’re applying the tan to the newest layer of skin, ensuring it stays vibrant for as long as possible.

Your Secret Weapon: The In The Buff Exfoliating Mitt

Not all exfoliation is created equal. Loofahs can be too scratchy, and some body scrubs leave behind oily residues that actually block the tan from developing.

Enter our In The Buff Mitt. This is a professional-grade tool designed specifically for sunless tanners. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Precision Texture: It’s woven to be tough enough to remove stubborn old tan and dead skin, but gentle enough not to irritate your fresh skin.

• No Residue: Unlike oil-based scrubs, the Mitt works perfectly with just water or a pH-balanced body wash, leaving your skin "naked" and ready to absorb the tan.

• The "Eraser" Effect: Got a little heavy-handed on the ankles last week? The In The Buff Mitt is the ultimate "undo" button for any tanning mishaps.

Follow these steps for the ultimate flawless finish:

1. Soak: Jump in a warm shower or bath for at least 5-10 minutes. This softens the skin cells and makes them easier to remove.

2. Scrub: Slip on your In The Buff Mitt. Using circular motions, start at your ankles and work your way up. Pay extra attention to the "Tanning Trouble Zones"—knees, elbows, heels, and knuckles.

3. Rinse & Dry: Rinse off thoroughly. When you get out, make sure you are 100% dry before applying your Fake Bake product.

4. The Golden Touch: Apply your favorite Fake Bake formula. Because you’ve exfoliated, the product will glide on like silk.

Don't let a "winter skin" buildup ruin your spring glow. Grab your In The Buff Mitt, give yourself the regular scrub-down you deserve, and step into the sunshine with a tan that looks as natural as the real thing.

Get Your In The Buff Exfoliating Mitt 

Happy Sunless Tanning, Fake Bakers!