Muscle Tan: Preparation and Aftercare

At Muscle Tan, we want you to look incredible when you step on stage. Our products are formulated with natural ingredients to ensure a flawless tan. Every professional certified to apply Muscle Tan has undergone advanced training directly with us. This ensures your tan is applied correctly, providing the winning combination of a perfectly sculpted body and a streak-free tan.

Muscle Tan stands out because of our in-depth expertise in both tanning and skincare. Our Muscle Tan team is co-owned and led by Sarah Jane Caine, a renowned tanning expert with over 23 years of experience in beauty and advanced skincare, alongside her husband Phil, who has been part of the bodybuilding world for more than five years.

Preparation and Skincare

Looking after your skin is just as important as preparing your physique. As an athlete, you dedicate countless hours to perfecting your body—don’t forget to care for your skin too! Proper skin preparation ensures a smooth and even tan, helping you shine on stage.

Exfoliation Tips

Exfoliating your skin is crucial for a flawless tan. It removes dead skin cells and provides a fresh base for the tan to adhere to. Follow these guidelines:

• Start exfoliating at least two weeks before the competition. Use exfoliating gloves and a simple, oil-free shower gel.
• Gently exfoliate three times a week for glowing, healthy skin.
• Avoid over-exfoliating, as it can dry out your skin or cause oiliness, leading to breakouts.

For your face, use a high-quality Vitamin C exfoliator from brands like The Body Shop or Clarins. Exfoliate your face no more than 2-3 times a week and always follow up with a hydrating moisturizer.

Moisturising Routine

Daily moisturizing helps keep your skin smooth and prepped for tanning:

• Apply moisturizer every day leading up to your tan, but avoid moisturizing on the day of your tan.
• Use a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer free of oils and heavy fragrances.

Essential Pre-Tan Hints and Tips

1. Exfoliate gently with exfoliating mitts and oil-free body scrubs.
2. Shave at least 12 hours before your tan. If you’re new to shaving, practice a few times before the event to allow your skin to adjust. If using hair removal creams like Veet, always do a patch test and apply them at least 48 hours before tanning.
3. Waxing should be done a week before the competition. If it’s your first time waxing, schedule it well in advance, as it can sometimes cause breakouts.
4. On the day of your tan, ensure your skin is free of perfume, oils, makeup, and deodorant, as these can cause the tan to go patchy or green.
5. Wear loose, dark clothing after your tan application—avoid red fabrics, which may react with the tan.

Important Tan Maintenance Tips

• Do not shower or wash off your tan before the competition. The tan needs to stay on from the first coat until after your show.
• Avoid water or liquids on your tan—this includes toothpaste, beverages, or accidental splashes. Use a straw for drinking and take care when using the bathroom.
• Skip perfume on your skin, as its alcohol content can break down the tan. Spray it lightly onto your hair instead.
• Avoid sunbeds, as they dry out the skin, hinder hydration, and can cause water retention, impacting the appearance of your tan and physique.

Remember, Muscle Tan products are designed to be layered for customizable depth and coverage. Whether you have pale or dark skin, our formulas will ensure you achieve the ideal competition look.

Aftercare Instructions

Your Muscle Tan will fade into a beautiful medium tan, lasting 7-10 days if cared for correctly. Follow these aftercare steps to maintain your glow:

1. Post-Competition Rinse: After the competition, rinse the tan off with water only. Use soap sparingly on “bits and pits.”
2. Avoid products with oils, shea butter, or cocoa butter, as these can cause the tan to fade unevenly.
3. Avoid heavily perfumed products like Lynx, which can dry out your skin, ruin the tan, and increase skin sensitivity.
4. If you wish to remove the tan, soak in a hot tub or bath with baby oil over a few days and gently exfoliate.
5. Begin gentle exfoliation 3-4 days after the show, continuing every other day until the tan is fully removed.

Enjoy Your Competition Glow

Your tan is the final touch to your competition look, and we want you to feel confident on stage. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at sarah@blackmagictan.co.uk or contact one of the certified tanners listed on our website.

With Muscle Tan, you’ll have the perfect finishing touch to complement your hard work and dedication.