Exfoliating after tanning is almost as important as exfoliating prior to tanning, regardless of whether you tan traditionally or use a tanning bed or self tanning product. Preparing your skin to tan will help you gain a quality tan that will last longer and make you look better.

Protect your tan by avoiding showering or bathing for six to eight hours after tanning. Giving your body that time will allow your tan to deepen to it's maximum point. Being in the water will lighten your tan up to that point, the longer you're in the water, the lighter the tan will become. Avoid steam baths, pools or saunas for the same reason.

Exfoliate everywhere with a salt free product, paying special attention to the rough areas of your body such as heels, knees and elbows. To achieve a natural tanned appearance with a face tanner, remember to exfoliate the hairline to remove any build up that may occur there. This avoids that dark line around the edge of your hair, a sure sign of self-tanning gone bad.

Moisturize immediately after exfoliating to maximize your tan, and continue to moisturize every day. The more moisture in your skin, the longer your tan will last and the more natural it will appear. Hydrate the skin with quality moisturizers and drink plenty of water.

Repeat this process a couple of times each week for a deep and long lasting tan. You'll look like you just came back from a tropical vacation.