The Best Fake Tan Removers

What are the best ways to get rid of fake tan when you’ve overdone it, or you simply want to return to your natural hue? Specialist fake tan removers can help, along with these top skincare tips.

Image Credit @ Camilla Akrans for Elle France

Fake tanning disaster? Don’t panic! When it comes to achieving a flawless fake tan, removing old, patchy layers is just as crucial as the initial application. Whether you’re prepping for a fresh tan or simply want to rid your skin of the golden hue you’ve added, finding the right fake tan remover can make all the difference. Here are some of the best fake tan removers that effectively exfoliate and cleanse the skin, ensuring a smooth and even base for your next tanning session.

Image Credit @ Camilla Akrans for Elle France

How Do You Take Fake Tan Off?

Start by exfoliating with a body scrub or exfoliating mitt to gently buff away the top layer of tanned skin, focusing on areas where tan tends to cling, like elbows, knees, and ankles. Next, apply a self tan removal product to dry skin, leave it on for 5-10 minutes, and then rinse off in the shower. Taking a hot bath for about 20 minutes can also help prep the tan for removal due to the heat and moisture. Oil-based products like baby oil or coconut oil can also break down the tan; apply generously and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before showering. Lemon juice, with its citric acid, can help fade the tan when applied with a cotton pad and left for a few minutes before rinsing. After removing the tan, make sure to apply a rich moisturiser to rehydrate your skin. For stubborn patches, a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice can be used as a paste, gently rubbed on problem areas.

Image Credit @ Camilla Akrans for Elle France

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Top 5 Fake Tan Removers

ROSE & CARAMEL | Purity Excel 60 Second Self Tan Removing Scrub
Apply this fake tan remover to dry skin, leave it for about five minutes, and then wash off. For particularly stubborn areas, use an exfoliating mitt. Perlite helps to exfoliate the skin without causing irritation, making the process smooth and easy.

SKINNY TAN | Miracle Tan Eraser
Skinny Tan’s Miracle Tan Eraser combines manual and chemical exfoliants like pumice and salicylic acid. It not only removes stubborn tan but also hydrates the skin with glycerin and urea. To use, massage the gel onto dry skin, leave it for five minutes, and then rinse off in the shower.

ISLE OF PARADISE | Over It Magic Self-Tan Eraser
This self-tan eraser is akin to micellar water in a spray bottle. It contains glycolic acid and micellar water to gently exfoliate and remove old tan, while avocado, chia seed, and coconut oils prevent skin from drying out.

BONDI SANDS | Self Tan Eraser
Bondi Sands offers a mousse formula that effectively removes tan in just five minutes. It has a light, fluffy texture that makes application easy. Apply the mousse, leave it for five minutes, and then rinse off.

TANOLOGIST | Self Tan Eraser + Primer
Tanologist’s foam fake tan eraser acts as both a tan remover and a primer for new tan applications. It contains glycolic acid, which helps clear skin congestion and is beneficial for those with body acne. It shouldn’t be used on the face, though.


TOP TIP:
Remember to be gentle with your skin, don’t scrub too hard. The fake tan will fade on its own after a few days, so it’s not worth damaging your skin by over-exfoliating.

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