Want a flawless competition tan that highlights your muscle definition and boosts your stage presence? This guide covers everything you need to know - from prepping your skin to applying the perfect tan and maintaining it for competition day.

Key Steps to Get Started:

1. Skin Prep: Exfoliate and remove hair 24–72 hours before tanning. Avoid oil-based products.
2. Day-Of: Shower with mild soap, skip deodorant and moisturizers, and wear loose, dark clothing.
3. Tanning Products: Use competition-grade solutions like Pro Tan or Norvell for a rich, even tone.
4. Application Tips: Apply in sections, blend around dry areas, and focus on even coverage.
5. Aftercare: Use our Finishing Powders which are loved by Pageant contestants nationwide.

Quick Timeline:

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned competitor, follow this checklist to ensure your tan is stage-ready and long-lasting.

The Secrets to the Perfect Bodybuilding Tan

Skin Prep Steps

Creating a smooth, even base is key to achieving a competition-worthy tan that looks flawless under bright stage lights. Proper skin preparation ensures your tan applies evenly and lasts longer.

48-24 Hours Before

"Before applying faux tanner, your skin should be completely clean, dry, and exfoliated to remove any dead, dry skin" .

Stick to this timeline for optimal results:

• Exfoliation: Use circular motions to exfoliate, paying extra attention to areas like knees, elbows, and heels .
• Hair Removal: Schedule waxing 24-72 hours before tanning. Men should shave 24-48 hours ahead of time, while women should do so 8-24 hours before application .
• Nail Protection: Apply a layer of clear nail polish to both fingernails and toenails to prevent staining .
• Hair Care: Wash your hair the day before using products that are free of SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) .

When tanning day arrives, ensure your skin is clean and prepped to maintain all the hard work you’ve done.

Day-Of Preparation

"Coming in dry will cause the tan to be very uneven, patchy, and not wear well" .

On the day of tanning, follow these steps:

• Take a gentle shower using mild soap, avoiding any personal care products like deodorant, moisturizers, makeup, perfume, or cologne .

For female competitors, keep a damp cloth handy to touch up your face before applying makeup. This ensures a clean surface without disturbing your tan .

Best Products for Competition Tanning

Get stage-ready with products that deliver a flawless competition tan.

Top Exfoliators

Exfoliating is a must for prepping your skin before tanning. It removes dead skin cells and ensures your tan absorbs evenly.

Use our Exfoliating Mitt and Detox Charcoal Bar to prep your skin.

These products are designed to leave no oily residue, giving you the perfect base for your tan.

Once exfoliation is complete, focus on keeping your skin hydrated with the right moisturizer.

Best Moisturizers

Hydrated skin is key to an even tan. During your prep week, use oil-free moisturizers like Aveeno to keep your skin smooth and ready. However, skip moisturizers on the actual tanning day to avoid interfering with the application. For post-tan care, stick to oil-free options recommended by your tanning solution brand to maintain your color.

With your skin prepped, it's time to move on to professional tanning products.

Professional Tanning Products

Competition tanning products are specially formulated to create a deep, rich tone that holds up under stage lights.

Our own quick drying Sunless Bronzing Mousse in natural medium to dark tan is the perfect option and can be layered up for an even darker appearance.

Finally, complete your look with Glow By Erin's finishing powder. This powder helps reduce stickiness and enhances your stage presence.

With these products, you’ll be set to achieve a rich, even tan that perfectly complements your competition prep.

How to Apply Your Tan

Application Method

Choose a well-lit, spacious room for your tanning session. Apply the product in circular motions, starting from your ankles and working upward in sections.

• Base Application
  Start with clean, dry skin. Use a tanning mitt to apply the product evenly, beginning at your ankles. Move upward in sections, keeping your motions consistent to avoid streaks.
• Face and Neck
  Apply tanner to your face in the evening to allow overnight development. Use a dedicated face mist or a makeup sponge for precise application, paying extra attention around the hairline for a natural look.
• Hard-to-Reach Areas
  For your back, try a tanning body mist with an extendable applicator. If needed, use double mirrors or enlist help to ensure full coverage.

Once the tanner is applied, focus on blending around dry areas to prevent uneven patches.

Dry Skin Areas

Certain areas, like elbows and knees, tend to absorb more product. Here's how to handle them for a smooth finish:

For a flawless finish, gently rub a damp washcloth over your feet, ankles, elbows, and knees right after applying the tanner. This simple step helps avoid streaks .

After-Tan Care

Proper care after application is just as important. Allow the appropriate amount of time before showering with standard formulas, or rapid-developing products.

• Wear loose, dark clothing
• Skip deodorant
• Avoid intense workouts
• Use finishing powder to reduce stickiness

"Hydrated skin will hold a spray tan longer. Moisturize twice daily with an alcohol-free lotion. Lotions containing a small amount of DHA will help extend your tan an additional 3-5 days."

For maintenance, pat your skin dry after workouts instead of rubbing, and apply setting powder to crease-prone areas. Steer clear of hot showers and bar soaps, as they can lead to uneven fading .

Competition Timing Guide

Tanning Schedule

Getting the timing right for your competition tan is key. Experts generally suggest tanning both the day before and the day of the event . Aim for two coats per session to achieve the perfect stage color.

Here’s a suggested plan:

Once you’ve locked in your tanning schedule, make sure your skin is prepped and ready with a well-timed exfoliation routine.

When to Exfoliate

To ensure your tan goes on smoothly and lasts through the competition, follow this exfoliation guide. It’s designed to complement your tanning timeline and enhance the overall result.

• One Week Before Competition
  Start prepping your skin by gently exfoliating daily. Keep your skin hydrated with consistent moisturizing .
• 24 Hours Before Your First Tan
  Complete a deep exfoliation and shave to prepare for the initial tan .
• Morning of Your First Tan
  Do a final exfoliation using cool water. Skip moisturizer on tanning day to help the color develop evenly .

On competition morning, lightly rinse your body, avoid scrubbing, and keep your skin dry to prevent streaking from sweat .

Since skin types and competition guidelines vary, it’s always a good idea to check with your tanning professional for tailored advice.

Pro Tips and Safety

Working with Pros

Hiring a professional tanning artist can make a big difference in your competition prep. Local services usually range from $95–$150, while competition venue services typically cost $150–$200 .

Here’s how to get the most out of professional tanning:

• Test it out first: Schedule a trial spray tan before events like posing workshops or bikini fittings .
• Communicate your needs: Share your competition schedule and how many coats you’ll need.
• Ask about compatibility: Discuss stage oil and glaze options with your tanning artist to avoid any issues.

"Every tanner on our team is fully trained in tanning and will always ensure that your tan will be as perfect as can be; but only you have control of your skin condition when you arrive for your tan and your skin preparation is a big part of the end result!" – Get Bronzed

Make sure to book your appointment early, especially during competition season, to lock in your preferred time slot. Proper planning with a professional ensures your tan meets the high standards of competition.

Safety Guidelines

A flawless competition tan isn’t just about the application - it’s also about following proper safety measures before, during, and after tanning.

Before Tanning

• Do a patch test with waxing or tanning products to check for any skin reactions.
• Prep your skin thoroughly and avoid using products that could interfere with the tan.
• Check the ingredients of all products to rule out sensitivities.

During Application

• Use FDA-recommended protective gear for your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Follow professional application instructions carefully.
• Ensure the tanning area is well-ventilated.

After Tanning

• Wear loose, dark clothing (skip red fabrics to prevent staining).
• Avoid skin-on-skin contact to keep the tan even.
• Use baby wipes instead of water for cleaning your hands to preserve the tan .

"Probably the MOST important thing to know about competition spray tans (and all spray tans for that matter) is if your skin is in crappy shape, your tan will most likely also be crappy"

If you’re staying overnight for a competition, bring your own sheets and towels to protect hotel linens or use Glow By Erin Finishing Powders. Contact your tanning artist immediately if you notice any unusual reactions. These small precautions help you maintain a long-lasting, even tan for competition day.

Quick Reference Summary

Here's a handy checklist to keep your pre-competition tanning routine on track:

One Week Before:

• Start daily exfoliation using an oil-free body scrub.
• Apply an oil-free moisturizer after exfoliating.
• Book your professional tanning appointment.
  

72 Hours Before:

• Finish all waxing and get your nails done.

24 Hours Before:

• Do a final shave using hair conditioner.
• Complete one last exfoliation with synthetic gloves.
• Set aside dark, loose clothing for after your tan.
• Pack extra sheets and towels if you're staying at a hotel.

Make sure your grooming and product choices align with the competition schedule and have fun. After all, life is meant to be enjoyed. Even on competition days!