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How To Remove Self Tanner (Guide)

The Ultimate Guide How to Remove Self Tanner (5 Proven & Easy Methods)

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In Detail Ultimate Guide How to Remove Self Tanner (5 Proven & Easy Methods)

Before we fix it helps to know what went wrong. Self tanner (or fake tan) works by a chemical reaction. The active ingredient, Diydrocortisone (DHA) interacts with the amino acids in the dead skin cells on your skin’s surface. This creates a brown colour which is help you how to remove self tanner.

This tan only exists on the top layer of your skin as those skin cells naturally shed your tan fades, problems occur when :

  • Skin isn’t exfoliated first : Dead skin cells build up and shed unevenly, causing a patchy fade.
  • Too much product is used : The skin can’t absorb it all leading to a dark, orange or streaky result.
  • It’s applied unevenly : Missing spots or applying too much pressure in certain areas creates streaks.
  • Your skin is dry : Moisturiser acts as a barrier. Dry areas (elbows, knees, ankles) absorb more DHA and become darker.

Understanding this is key because how to remove self tanner is all about speeding up the shedding of those top layer tinted skin cells.

What You'll Need : Your Self Tanner Removal Toolkit

Gathering your supplies before you start makes the process smooth and easy.

  • A good exfoliating scrub : A physical scrub with granules like sugar or salt.
  • An exfoliating glove or brush : For extra power.
  • Lemon juice or baking soda : Natural acids and abrasives.
  • Baby oil or coconut oil : To help break down the tan.
  • A gentle, oil based cleanser.
  • White vinegar (for stubborn stains).
  • A rich, moisturising body lotion.

5 Proven & Easy Methods How to Remove Self Tanner

Here are the most effective ways to remove your fake tan from the quickest fixes to the most powerful solutions.

Method 1 : The Powerful Exfoliation Scrub (The Most Effective)

This is the number one most proven method. By physically scrubbing away the top layer of skin, you remove the cells that contain the DHA stain.

How to do it

  1. Take a warm bath or shower : Soak for at least 10 to 15 minutes. The warm water will soften your skin and open up your pores, making the exfoliation much more effective and easier.
  2. Make a DIY scrub : In a small bowl mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda or sugar with 1 tablespoon of baby oil or your regular shower gel. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that helps neutralise the DHA.
  3. Scrub in circular motions : Using an exfoliating glove or your hands gently scrub your skin using small circular motions. Focus on darker areas like ankles, knees and elbows, but be gentle there as the skin is more sensitive.
  4. Rinse thoroughly : Wash off all the scrub residue.
  5. Pat dry and moisturise : This is a crucial step to keep your newly revealed skin hydrated.
How to Remove Self Tanner

Method 2 : The Oil Soak (Gentle but Effective)

Oil is fantastic for breaking down the self tanner. It helps to dissolve the DHA, making it easier to wipe or wash away. This is a great easy and hydrating method for how to remove self tanner.

How to do it

  1. Apply baby oil : Coconut oil or olive oil. Generously coat all the tanned areas of your skin and don’t be shy!
  2. Wait 10 to 15 minutes : Let the oil sink in and work its magic on breaking down the tan.
  3. Hop into a warm Shower : The steam will further help the process.
  4. Gently exfoliate : Use your hands or a washcloth to gently rub your skin. You should see the tan coming off onto the cloth.
  5. Use an oil based cleanser : In the shower use a cleanser with oil in it to help wash away the dissolved tan and excess oil and rinse well.

Method 3 : The Lemon Juice & Baking Soda Paste (For Stubborn Patches)

Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent due to its citric acid content. When combined with the abrasive power of baking soda, it creates a powerful paste for tackling stubborn stains on elbows, knees and feet.

How to do it

  1. Create a thick paste : Mix equal parts lemon juice and baking soda in a bowl.
  2. Apply directly to problem areas : Use your fingers to spread a layer of the paste onto any dark or streaky patches.
  3. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes : You might feel a slight tingling sensation that’s the acid working.
  4. Gently scrub and rinse : Using wet fingers gently massage the area in a circular motion and then rinse completely with warm water.

Method 4 : The Steam Room Trick (The Lazy Girl's Method)

If you have access to a steam room or sauna at a gym this is the easy way out. The combination of heat, steam and sweat helps to open your pores and loosen the dead skin cells allowing the tan to literally sweat off.

How to do it

  1. Spend 15 to 20 minutes in the steam room : Relax and let your body sweat.
  2. Gently wipe your skin : Periodically use a towel to gently wipe your skin. You will likely see tan residue on the towel.
  3. Take a shower : After your steam session, hop in the shower and use a mild exfoliate to wash away any remaining tan.
  4. Moisturise well : Replenish all the hydration lost from sweating.

Method 5 : Commercial Self Tanner Removers (The Quick Fix)

If DIY isn’t your style and several brands make products specifically designed to remove self tanner. They are formulated with ingredients that break down DHA quickly.

How to do it

  1. Bond i sands self tan eraser : A popular, effective mitt and foam system.
  2. St. trope x tan remover mousse : Gently foams away tan without harsh scrubbing.
  3. Loving tan tan remover mousse : Another highly rated option.

Always follow the instructions on the bottle. Generally you apply the product, wait a few minutes and then wipe or rinse it away and know how to remove self tanner.

How to Remove Self Tanner from Your Face

The skin on your face is more delicate so you need a gentler approach.

  • Oil Cleansing Method : Use an oil based cleanser (like DHC Deep Cleansing Oil) to massage your face for 60 seconds. The oil will break down the tan.
  • Use a Gentle Chemical Exfoliate : A toner or wash with glycol acid or cyclical acid (like the ordinary glycol acid 7% toning solution)
  • Apply a Hydrating Face Mask : This will help soothe your skin after the process.

How to Fix Small Mistakes (Without a Full Removal)

Only have a small streak or a dark patch? You don’t need to remove everything!

  • For a Dark Spot : Dip a cotton swab in lemon juice or mi-cellar water and gently dab the area. Follow with a light scrub.
  • For a Light Streak : Use a small makeup brush or cotton swab to apply a little bit of leftover self tanner just to that spot to blend it in.

FAQ's (Frequently Questions)

Q1. How long does it take for self tanner to fade on its own?

A. Atypical self tan will fade completely on its own in 5 to 7 days as your skin naturally sheds its cells.

Q2. Does vinegar remove self tanner?

A. Yes! The acetic acid in white vinegar can help break down DHA. Dilute it with equal parts water, spray it on, wait 10 minutes then rinse and scrub. It’s strong so test on a small area first.

Q3. Will bleach ruin my self tan?

A. Do not use household bleach on your skin. It is extremely dangerous and will cause severe chemical burns. This is not a method for tan removal.

Q4. How can I prevent a streaky tan next time?

A. The best prevention is a good routine, always exfoliate 24 hours before, shave before tanning, moisturise dry areas and use a tanning mitt for an even application.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or professional skincare advice. Always do a patch test on a small area of your skin before trying any new method, especially those involving acids like lemon juice. If you experience irritation discontinue use immediately. Consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional if you have concerns about your skin.

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