Best Fake Tan Removers | How To Take Fake Tan Off

Fake tanning fiasco? Don’t panic! To achieve the perfect fake tan, removing the old, imperfect layer is just as important as applying it in the first place. Whether you’re getting ready for a fresh tan or simply want to get rid of the golden hue you’ve added to your skin, 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 your skin, ensuring a smooth, even base for your next tanning session.

How do I remove fake tan?

First, gently scrub off the top layer of tanned skin with a body scrub or exfoliating mitt. Focus on areas that are prone to tanning, such as elbows, knees, and ankles. Next, apply a self-tanner remover to dry skin and leave it on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing it off in the shower. Staying in the bath for about 20 minutes will help remove your tan with the heat and humidity. Oil-based products such as baby oil and coconut oil will also break down your tan. Apply liberally and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before showering. Lemon juice contains citric acid, which can help fade your tan if you soak a cotton pad and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off. After removing your tan, apply a rich moisturizer to hydrate your skin. For stubborn areas, you can make a paste of baking soda and lemon juice and gently rub it into the problem areas.

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Top 5 Fake Tan Removers

Rose & Caramel | Purity Excel 60 Second Self-Tanning Removing Scrub
Apply this fake tan remover to dry skin and leave it on for about 5 minutes before rinsing. Use an exfoliating mitt for particularly stubborn areas. Perlite helps remove dead skin without irritating the skin, making this process smooth and easy.

Skinny Tan | Miracle Tan Eraser
Skinny Tan’s Miracle Tan Eraser combines manual exfoliants with chemical exfoliants, like pumice and salicylic acid. Not only does it remove stubborn tan, it also hydrates skin with glycerin and urea. To use, massage the gel onto dry skin and leave it on for five minutes before rinsing it off in the shower.

Paradise Island | Over It Magic Self Tan Eraser
This self-tanning eraser is like 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 oil help prevent skin from drying out.

Bondi Sands | Self Tanning Eraser
Bondi Sands offers a mousse formula that effectively removes tan in just 5 minutes. Its light and fluffy texture makes it easy to apply. Simply apply the mousse, leave it on for 5 minutes and then rinse.

TANOLOGIST | Self-tanning eraser + primer
Tanologist’s Foam Fake Tan Eraser works as a tan remover and a primer for a fresh application of tan. It contains glycolic acid, which helps unclog skin and fights body acne. Don’t use it on your face, though.

Tip:
Be gentle with your skin and make sure you don’t scrub too hard – fake tan will go away on its own after a few days, so it’s not a good idea to over-exfoliate and damage your skin.

Read next: Get the perfect summer tan | The ultimate hair removal guide

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