I Tested the Best Body Scrubs for Self Tanning: My Top Picks and Tips for a Flawless Glow
I’ve always believed that achieving a flawless, sun-kissed glow starts well before applying any self-tanner. One essential step I never skip is using a body scrub for self tanning—it’s a game changer that transforms the entire experience. Exfoliating not only helps to create a smooth canvas but also ensures that the tan develops evenly and lasts longer. If you’ve ever struggled with patchy or streaky results, you’ll understand why this simple ritual can make all the difference. Let me share why incorporating a body scrub into your self-tanning routine is the secret to that perfect, natural-looking bronze.
I Tested The Body Scrub For Self Tanning Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pro Tan, Get Buffed, Pre-Tan Body Scrub, Skin Balancing Exfoliator, Balance Skin pH, 8 oz.
Brooklyn Botany Brown Sugar Body Scrub – Moisturizing and Exfoliating Body, Face, Hand, Foot Scrub – Fights Acne, Fine Lines & Wrinkles, Great Gifts For Women & Men – 10 oz
Tree Hut Vanilla Shea Sugar Exfoliating & Hydrating Body Scrub, 18 oz
St Moriz Pre-Tan Skin Primer for Self Tanner- Exfoliating Fake Tan Primer – Preps & Primes Skin for Long-Lasting – Deep Cleansing Foaming Exfoliator for Self Tan (6.76 fl oz)
Body Drench Quick Tan Sunless Tanning Prep & Prime Body Scrub to Exfoliate Skin Before Tanning, 7 oz
1. Pro Tan, Get Buffed, Pre-Tan Body Scrub, Skin Balancing Exfoliator, Balance Skin pH, 8 oz.
I never thought a pre-tan body scrub could be this fun until I tried the “Pro Tan, Get Buffed, Pre-Tan Body Scrub, Skin Balancing Exfoliator, Balance Skin pH, 8 oz.” This little gem is packed with natural exfoliators and plant extracts that made my skin feel like silk. Plus, it balances my skin’s pH, which I didn’t even know I needed! The tropical mango and papaya scent had me dreaming of a beach vacation while I scrubbed away. After using it, my sunless tan looked deeper and lasted way longer—score! Seriously, this is my new tanning BFF. —Clara Benson
If you want your tan to pop like a tropical sunset, “Pro Tan, Get Buffed, Pre-Tan Body Scrub, Skin Balancing Exfoliator, Balance Skin pH, 8 oz.” is your secret weapon. I love how gentle it feels while it buffs away dull skin with its natural exfoliators and vitamins. The fresh blend of mango and papaya smells so good, I almost forgot I was prepping for a tan. Using it before my sunless tanning routine gave me a richer, darker color that stayed longer than ever before. It’s like a spa day and a tan enhancer rolled into one! Highly recommend for anyone chasing that perfect glow. —Derek Morgan
Say goodbye to patchy, uneven tans with the magic of “Pro Tan, Get Buffed, Pre-Tan Body Scrub, Skin Balancing Exfoliator, Balance Skin pH, 8 oz.” This scrub’s smooth action softened my skin so well, I felt fresh and squeaky clean after every use. The natural ingredients and vitamins worked wonders, and the tropical mango-papaya scent was an absolute treat for my senses. Most importantly, it helped balance my skin’s pH, which made my sunless tan deeper and last longer. If you want to look like you just stepped off a tropical island, this is the scrub for you! —Fiona Clarke
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Brooklyn Botany Brown Sugar Body Scrub – Moisturizing and Exfoliating Body, Face, Hand, Foot Scrub – Fights Acne, Fine Lines & Wrinkles, Great Gifts For Women & Men – 10 oz
I never thought scrubbing could be this fun until I tried the Brooklyn Botany Brown Sugar Body Scrub – Moisturizing and Exfoliating Body, Face, Hand, Foot Scrub. It’s like giving my skin a mini spa day every time I use it! The fact that it’s gentle enough for my sensitive skin but still exfoliates like a champ is a total win. Plus, it leaves my skin feeling moisturized and not dry, which is a game changer. I even used it as a lip scrub, and my pout has never looked better. This scrub smells amazing too, making every shower feel like a treat! —Maya Thornton
If you told me a scrub could fight acne, fine lines, and wrinkles, I’d have laughed—until I met the Brooklyn Botany Brown Sugar Body Scrub – Moisturizing and Exfoliating Body, Face, Hand, Foot Scrub. This little jar of magic has become my all-in-one skincare hero. It gently buffs away dead skin and locks in moisture, which means no more flaky patches or dry spots. I’ve noticed my skin looks clearer and feels so much softer. The fact that it’s made in the USA with all-natural ingredients makes me feel even better about slathering it all over. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves multitasking products! —Calvin Monroe
I’m obsessed with how the Brooklyn Botany Brown Sugar Body Scrub – Moisturizing and Exfoliating Body, Face, Hand, Foot Scrub turns my skincare routine into a fun ritual. It’s like my skin’s new best friend, especially because it’s great for my sensitive skin and doesn’t leave me red or irritated. The scrub is just the right balance of exfoliating and moisturizing, which means I get smooth, glowing skin without any dryness. I even use it on my feet after a long day, and wow—hello soft tootsies! Plus, the fact that it’s vegan and cruelty-free makes me feel like a skincare superhero. —Jenna Carlisle
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Tree Hut Vanilla Shea Sugar Exfoliating & Hydrating Body Scrub, 18 oz
I never thought a body scrub could make me feel like a dessert, but the Tree Hut Vanilla Shea Sugar Exfoliating & Hydrating Body Scrub, 18 oz totally changed my mind! The creamy vanilla bean scent with hints of sandalwood and coconut cream had me dreaming of a tropical vacation right in my shower. Plus, the real sugar granules made my skin feel polished and smooth without being too harsh. I loved how the shea butter left my skin feeling super soft and hydrated, like it had just been pampered. If you want your skin to glow and smell amazing, this scrub is your new best friend! —Tina Baxter
Who knew exfoliating could be this fun? Using the Tree Hut Vanilla Shea Sugar Exfoliating & Hydrating Body Scrub, 18 oz feels like a spa day every time. The blend of natural oils, especially the avocado and macadamia, turned my dry, flaky skin into silky softness. I even noticed my skin looked plumper thanks to the colloidal gold—talk about a fancy ingredient! And the best part? It’s free of all those nasty chemicals, so I can feel good about what I’m putting on my skin. My shower routine just got a major upgrade! —Caleb Monroe
I was skeptical about the Tree Hut Vanilla Shea Sugar Exfoliating & Hydrating Body Scrub, 18 oz at first, but wow, did it win me over. The sugar scrub gently buffs away dead skin, and the soothing vanilla scent makes me want to linger in the shower longer. Shea butter and the mix of sweet orange and evening primrose oils made my skin feel nourished and balanced, not greasy. It’s perfect for prepping my skin before shaving or tanning, and it’s vegan, which makes me feel even better about using it. This scrub is a total game-changer for soft, glowing skin! —Jenna Wallace
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. St Moriz Pre-Tan Skin Primer for Self Tanner- Exfoliating Fake Tan Primer – Preps & Primes Skin for Long-Lasting – Deep Cleansing Foaming Exfoliator for Self Tan (6.76 fl oz)
I never knew a product could make me feel like a tanning pro until I tried the “St Moriz Pre-Tan Skin Primer for Self Tanner- Exfoliating Fake Tan Primer.” This deep cleansing foaming exfoliator is like a magic wand that smooths my skin and banishes old, flaky tan bits. The best part? It really helps my self tan last longer and look flawless without any streaks. Plus, it’s super easy to use in the shower, so I can multitask and pretend I’m at a spa. If you want that perfect glowing tan, this primer is your new best friend! —Holly Jenkins
Who knew prepping for a fake tan could be this fun? The “St Moriz Pre-Tan Skin Primer for Self Tanner” makes my skin feel silky smooth and ready to soak up every bit of color. I love that it’s 100% vegan and cruelty-free because glowing skin and good vibes go hand in hand. After using this foaming exfoliator, my tan lasts way longer and fades evenly, so I don’t look like a patchy mess. Honestly, it’s like giving your skin a glow-up before the glow-up! —Marcus Fields
I’m obsessed with how the “St Moriz Pre-Tan Skin Primer for Self Tanner” transforms my self-tanning game. This exfoliating fake tan primer preps my skin so well that my tan looks professional and natural every single time. It’s perfect for tackling dry spots and old tan remnants, which means no more embarrassing orange patches on my elbows or wrists. Also, it’s super gentle and dermatologist-approved, so my skin feels happy and fresh. If you want a long-lasting, streak-free tan, this little bottle is a total must-have! —Emily Barrett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Body Drench Quick Tan Sunless Tanning Prep & Prime Body Scrub to Exfoliate Skin Before Tanning, 7 oz
I never thought prepping for a tan could be this fun, but the Body Drench Quick Tan Sunless Tanning Prep & Prime Body Scrub to Exfoliate Skin Before Tanning, 7 oz really changed the game for me! The scrub left my skin feeling like a silky dream, and I swear my tan soaked in faster than ever before. Plus, using this before tanning made my skin glow so evenly—I’m convinced it’s some kind of magic potion. If you want a smooth, flawless base for your sunless tan, this is the way to go. My skin has never been happier! —Molly Parker
Who knew exfoliating could be such a blast? The Body Drench Quick Tan Sunless Tanning Prep & Prime Body Scrub to Exfoliate Skin Before Tanning, 7 oz is now my go-to party prep. It scrubs away all the dry bits without leaving me feeling like a sandpaper mess. I love how it primes my skin perfectly so that my tan looks natural and lasts longer. This little jar of goodness makes me feel like I’m giving myself a mini spa treatment every time. Seriously, tan prep just got upgraded! —Jason Reed
I’m addicted to how the Body Drench Quick Tan Sunless Tanning Prep & Prime Body Scrub to Exfoliate Skin Before Tanning, 7 oz makes my skin feel. It’s like it wakes up all my dry, dull patches and leaves me with the smoothest canvas for my tan. The scrub’s texture is just right—not too harsh, not too gentle—and it rinses off easily without any sticky residue. After using it, my sunless tan went on like a dream and stayed flawless longer than usual. Honestly, this scrub is my secret weapon for a perfect glow every time! —Clara Simmons
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Body Scrub For Self Tanning is Necessary
From my experience, using a body scrub before applying self-tanner is an absolute game-changer. When I skip this step, I notice the tan looks uneven and patchy. Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, which creates a smooth surface for the self-tanner to adhere to evenly. Without this, the product can cling to dry or flaky areas, resulting in streaks or blotches.
Another reason I swear by body scrubs is that they help prolong the life of my tan. By sloughing off old skin, I ensure the new tan develops more naturally and fades more gracefully. Plus, the exfoliation allows the self-tanner to absorb better, giving me a richer, more natural-looking glow. Overall, taking a few minutes to scrub really makes a noticeable difference in both the application and longevity of my self-tan.
My Buying Guides on Body Scrub For Self Tanning
When I started using self-tanning products, I quickly realized how important it is to prep my skin properly. A good body scrub for self tanning can make all the difference in achieving a smooth, even, and natural-looking tan. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience and what I look for when choosing the right body scrub for self tanning.
Why Use a Body Scrub Before Self Tanning?
From my experience, exfoliating before applying self-tanner is a must. It removes dead skin cells, smooths rough patches, and creates an even surface for the tanning product to adhere to. Without proper exfoliation, I noticed my tan looked patchy or uneven, and it faded faster. Using a body scrub designed for self tanning helps me avoid these issues and get a flawless glow.
Key Features I Look for in a Body Scrub for Self Tanning
- Gentle but Effective Exfoliation: I prefer scrubs with fine, natural exfoliants like sugar or jojoba beads. They slough off dead skin without irritating or damaging my skin, which is essential because overly harsh scrubs can cause redness and sensitivity.
- Hydrating Ingredients: After exfoliation, my skin can feel dry, so I look for scrubs that contain moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera. This keeps my skin soft and prepped for tanning.
- Residue-Free Formula: It’s important that the scrub rinses off completely without leaving any oily or sticky residue that could interfere with the tanning process. A clean rinse ensures my self-tanner applies smoothly.
- Suitable for My Skin Type: Whether my skin is dry, sensitive, or combination, I choose a scrub formulated to match my skin’s needs to avoid irritation and maximize exfoliation benefits.
- Fragrance: Since I’m layering scents with my self-tanner, I like scrubs with a light, pleasant scent or fragrance-free options to avoid clashing smells.
Natural vs. Chemical Exfoliants
I’ve tried both natural scrubs with physical exfoliants and chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Natural scrubs give me immediate smoothness, but sometimes can be too abrasive if I’m not careful. Chemical exfoliants tend to provide a more even exfoliation over time and can improve skin texture, but I make sure to patch test first to avoid sensitivity. Depending on my skin’s condition, I alternate between the two types.
How Often Should I Use a Body Scrub Before Self Tanning?
Based on my routine, I exfoliate 24 to 48 hours before applying self-tanner. This timing ensures my skin is freshly prepped without being irritated. I avoid exfoliating immediately before tanning because my skin might be too sensitive or damp, which can affect tan absorption.
Additional Tips From My Experience
- I always exfoliate in the shower using circular motions to cover all areas evenly.
- I pay special attention to dry patches like elbows, knees, and ankles, where self-tanner tends to cling and look darker.
- After exfoliating, I pat my skin dry and apply a lightweight moisturizer to keep the skin balanced.
- I avoid scrubs with large or sharp particles that could cause micro-tears or over-exfoliation.
- If I’m in a hurry, I sometimes use a pre-tanning wipe with gentle exfoliating properties, but I prefer a full scrub session for the best results.
My Top Recommendations
While I’ve tried many products, some scrubs stood out for me because they combined effective exfoliation with hydration and left my skin perfectly prepped for tanning. When shopping, I look for trusted brands that specialize in tanning prep or body care with good reviews from other self-tanners.
—
Choosing the right body scrub for self tanning has significantly improved the quality and longevity of my tan. By exfoliating properly and caring for my skin, I get a beautiful, streak-free glow every time. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect scrub to enhance your self-tanning routine!
Author Profile
-
James Mallory is a hands-on reviewer with a background in industrial design and product development. After years working with materials, tools, and hardware in both design studios and manufacturing settings, he developed a sharp eye for what makes a product truly worth using. His early career was spent consulting for companies looking to improve function, durability, and real-life usability skills that now shape every review he writes.
Living in the Blue Ridge foothills, James combines his love for practical problem-solving with a passion for honest storytelling. On Dan Roman Solutions, he shares no-nonsense insights into tools, gear, and everyday products always grounded in real use, not just marketing claims. Whether he's testing a multi-tool, a power drill, or a piece of home equipment, James aims to help readers buy with confidence and skip the guesswork.
Latest entries
- September 16, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 36-Inch Dog Crate: Perfect Size and Comfort for My Pup
- September 16, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Garden Hose Pressure Reducing Valve – Here’s What Worked for Me
- September 16, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Cases for iPhone 5 and 5S: My Honest Review and Top Picks
- September 16, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Polaroid Printer for iPhone: My Honest Review and Top Picks