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Winter Skin & Fake Tan: How to Stay Glowing in the Cold

Winter Skin & Fake Tan: How to Stay Glowing in the Cold

Winter Skin & Fake Tan: How to Stay Glowing in the Cold

Just because the temperature’s dropping doesn’t mean your glow has to! Winter is notorious for drying out our skin and making our tan fade faster — but it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right products and routine, you can keep your skin soft, hydrated and bronzed all through the chilly season.

This guide breaks down exactly how to take care of your skin and fake tan in winter — featuring your glow-to essentials from Naked Tan.

Why Winter Skin Needs Extra Love

Cold air outside and indoor heating inside is a combo that seriously dehydrates your skin. Add in hot showers, heavier fabrics, and less exfoliation, and suddenly your fake tan doesn’t apply as smoothly or last as long.

Hydration, protection, and smart tanning techniques are the key to keeping your skin healthy and your glow consistent.

Step 1: Exfoliate, But Gently

Exfoliating is still a must in winter — it helps remove dry, flaky skin and creates the perfect canvas for a smooth, even tan.

Tip: Use a gentle exfoliating mitt and exfoliate 24–48 hours before tanning. Focus on knees, elbows, and ankles, but don’t overdo it.

Step 2: Moisturise Like a Pro

This is your #1 winter skincare step — and it makes all the difference to your tan.

  • Moisturise daily (morning and night if possible)

  • Use a moisturiser that’s nourishing but not greasy

  • Try Naked Tan’s Crème de la Crème Moisturiser, formulated to work hand-in-hand with fake tan

Step 3: Choose the Right Fake Tan

Not all fake tans are created equal — especially in winter.

  • Go for a hydrating formula like Naked Tan Self Tan

  • If you’re time poor, Naked Tan’s 2 Hour Tan or 20 Minute Tan are perfect for a quick glow-up without freezing while you wait

  • Gradual tan is your winter BFF: apply every few days for a soft, buildable glow

Step 4: Don’t Skip Sunscreen (Yes, Even in Winter)

UV rays don’t take a break during the colder months. And if you’re using active ingredients like retinol or exfoliating acids, your skin is even more sensitive to the sun.

Layer a broad-spectrum sunscreen on top of your skincare every morning. Choose:

  • Lightweight, oil-free formulas

  • Mineral sunscreen or zinc sunscreen for sensitive skin

  • Bonus: tinted sunscreen if you want some glow without makeup

Step 5: Protect Your Tan from Winter Wear

Tight jeans, wool coats, and boots can cause friction that rubs off your tan faster. Try to:

  • Moisturise before dressing to create a barrier

  • Wear loose clothing the day you tan

  • Sleep in long sleeves and pants to protect your glow overnight

Step 6: Top Up with Gradual Tan

Keep your tan fresh without doing a full fake tan session. Naked Tan’s Gradual Tan is ideal for:

  • Extending your existing tan

  • Adding a hint of glow between full applications

  • Giving your skin a moisturising boost

Winter Skin SOS: Common Problems & Fixes

Problem: Patchy or flaky tan?
Fix: Gently exfoliate and start fresh. Keep your skin well-moisturised going forward.

Problem: Tan clinging to dry spots?
Fix: Apply moisturiser to dry areas before tanning — elbows, knees, knuckles, ankles.

Problem: Pale face in a bronzed body?
Fix: Mix a little self tan with your moisturiser or use a face-specific tanner. Always finish with sunscreen.

Your Winter Glow Routine with Naked Tan

Here’s a foolproof glow-up plan for cold days:

  1. Exfoliate with a mitt or gentle scrub

  2. Apply Self Tan or Gradual Tan (depending on your glow goals)

  3. Moisturise daily with Crème de la Crème

  4. Use SPF every morning (even when it’s cloudy!)

  5. Top up weekly with Gradual Tan

Glow All Season

Winter doesn’t have to mean dull, dry skin. With a little extra care and the right products, your glow can shine through the season. Naked Tan’s natural, nourishing formulas are designed to work with your skin — not against it — so you can stay bronzed, soft, and confident all year round.

Stay warm. Stay golden.

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