The Pro Tan Advantage: Achieving the Ultimate Stage-Ready Glow
In the world of competitive bodybuilding and physique sports, your tan is just as important as your posing. Since 1987, Pro Tan® has been the #1 competition tanning brand globally, trusted by athletes in the IFBB, NPC, and beyond. Designed specifically to perform under intense stage lighting, Pro Tan products ensure your muscle definition and hard-earned contours are visible to every judge in the room.
Unlike lifestyle tanning solutions, competition tans must be significantly darker to prevent the skin from looking washed out under high-wattage lights. Here is why Pro Tan remains the gold standard for athletes.
1. The Science of the "Stage Tan"
Pro Tan’s formulas are engineered to emphasize vascularity and muscle separation. Their signature Overnight Competition Color provides a deep, dark mahogany base that avoids the orange or greenish undertones often found in standard retail tanners.
- Non-Streak Formula: Even coverage is critical when judges are looking for symmetry. Pro Tan’s solutions are designed to be buildable and streak-free.
- Fast-Drying & Long-Lasting: The solution dries in minutes and develops fully overnight, allowing you to focus on your pre-show prep rather than your tan.
- Skin Prep Integrated: Products like
are essential for balancing skin pH and ensuring maximum absorption of the tanning solution.Get Buffed® Pre-Tan Scrub
2. Essential Pro Tan Products for Your Show
Achieving a winning look requires a multi-step system. Most athletes use a comprehensive kit to ensure consistency:
Overnight Competition Color (Base Coat)
The foundation of your tan. Apply 1–2 days before your show to build a deep, rich brown base
3. How to Apply Like a Pro
To avoid common pitfalls like "dirty" elbows or splotchy patches, follow these official Pro Tan guidelines:
- Exfoliate Early: Start using
at least 3-7 days before your first application to remove dead skin.Get Buffed®
- Shave Properly: Complete all body hair removal 24–48 hours before tanning to allow pores to close.
- The "Dry" Areas: Apply product sparingly to knees, elbows, and ankles, as these areas absorb color more intensely.
- No Deodorant: Avoid deodorants, perfumes, or lotions on the day of application, as they can react with the tan and turn the skin green.
Step onto the stage with confidence. Whether you are a first-time bikini competitor or a veteran bodybuilder, the Pro Tan Competition Tanning Line provides the reliable, professional results needed to showcase your best self.
