We’ve all been there — whether you’re a self-tanning pro or you love a flawless spray tan, sometimes things just don’t go as planned. Maybe you’ve got a streaky patch, your tan’s fading unevenly, or you’re just ready to say goodbye to last week’s glow and start fresh.
Whatever the reason, knowing how to remove fake tan can save you from a lot of stress (and some questionable fashion choices).
In this guide, we’re sharing our favourite tips, tricks and must-have products to help you get rid of your fake tan quickly and easily at home. So let’s get down to business!
Why is it Important to Remove Fake Tan?
Removing fake tan properly is key to keeping your skin looking fresh and healthy. Leaving an old tan on too long can lead to patchiness, uneven colour, and dry, flaky skin—none of which are a good look! Plus, a clean, smooth canvas ensures your next tan goes on flawlessly, giving you that even, glowing finish you’re after. Proper removal not only prevents those dreaded streaks but also helps maintain your skin’s health and hydration, setting you up for a perfect tan every time.
10 Best Ways to Remove Fake Tan
There are plenty of ways to remove fake tan at home, whether you prefer store-bought solutions or simple DIY remedies from your kitchen cupboard. The good news? These tried-and-true methods will help you fade or remove your tan quickly and evenly.
Here are our top 10 favourite ways to get the job done...
1. Use Fake Tan Removers
Fake tan removers are specially formulated to erase fake tan. These clever products break down the DHA (that’s the stuff in fake tan that gives you colour) so it washes away easily, without needing to scrub like mad. They work quickly and are also very gentle on your skin, so if you’re after a fuss-free solution, this is your best bet!
How to Use Tan Removers:
- Apply the tan remover generously to dry skin, focusing on areas with the most build-up.
- Leave it on for 5-10 minutes to allow it to work its magic.
- Hop in the shower and use a soft cloth or exfoliating mitt to gently scrub off the tan.
- Rinse thoroughly and follow up with a moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated.
Tan Removal Tip: For a powerful yet gentle option, try the Crazy Angel Tan Eraser. It’s a great choice if you want to remove tan quickly without drying out your skin.
2. Try an Exfoliating Scrub
Exfoliating scrubs are a simple yet effective way to buff away fake tan. They work by using tiny particles to gently slough off dead skin cells, along with any leftover tan. This not only helps remove the tan but also leaves your skin feeling smooth and refreshed. If you’re dealing with stubborn patches, an exfoliating scrub is your go-to.
How to Remove Fake Tan Using an Exfoliating Scrub:
- Wet your skin in the shower or bath to soften the surface.
- Apply the exfoliating scrub to the areas with leftover tan.
- Gently massage in circular motions, focusing on any stubborn spots.
- Rinse thoroughly and repeat if needed until the tan fades evenly.
- Follow up with a hydrating moisturiser to keep your skin nourished.
Tan Removal Tip: For a luxurious and effective scrub, try the Kaeso Mandarin & Black Pepper Sugar Body Scrub. It’s perfect for smoothing your skin while helping to lift away tan, and it smells amazing too!
3. Take a Long Bath
Soaking in a warm bath is a relaxing way to help remove fake tan. While it’s not the fastest method, it’s perfect for those times when you want to fully remove your tan in one session. The warm water softens your skin and loosens the tan, making it easier to wash away. Plus, who doesn’t love a good soak to unwind after a long day?
How to Remove Fake Tan in the Bath:
- Fill your tub with warm water—make it comfortably warm, but not too hot.
- Add a bath bomb or some gentle bath oil for extra nourishment.
- Soak in the bath for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the tan to soften.
- Use an exfoliating mitt or a soft cloth to gently scrub off the tan while you soak.
- Rinse off, pat your skin dry, and apply a rich moisturiser to lock in hydration.
Tan Removal Tip: For an extra boost, try the Lusso Tan Winter Nights Bath Bomb. It’s designed to help remove tan while also leaving your skin feeling soft and smelling divine—total win-win!
4. Reach for a Shower Bar
A shower bar is a solid cleansing bar that works like your favourite soap but with a bit of extra oomph for removing fake tan. These bars are packed with exfoliating ingredients that help to gently buff away the tan while cleansing your skin. They’re super convenient and easy to use, making them a great option for quick tan removal in the shower.
How to Remove Fake Tan Using a Shower Bar:
- Wet your skin thoroughly in the shower.
- Rub the shower bar directly onto the areas where you want to remove the tan.
- Massage in circular motions to work up a lather and gently exfoliate the skin.
- Rinse off the lather and repeat the process if needed until the tan fades.
- After showering, pat your skin dry and apply moisturiser to keep your skin soft and smooth.
Tan Removal Tip: Try the Lusso Tan Tan-Be-Gone Shower Bar. It’s specifically designed to help remove tan, and it’s gentle enough for everyday use.
5. Shave!
Shaving is more than just a way to get smooth legs—it’s also a sneaky method for removing fake tan. When you shave, you’re not only getting rid of hair but also lightly exfoliating the top layer of your skin, which helps fade any leftover tan. Pairing your shave with a good scrub beforehand can really boost the tan-removing power.
How to Remove Fake Tan by Shaving:
- Start with a gentle exfoliating scrub in the shower to loosen up the tan and prep your skin.
- Rinse off the scrub and apply a shaving gel or cream to help protect your skin.
- Shave as usual, using gentle strokes to avoid irritation.
- Rinse your skin thoroughly, making sure all the product is washed away.
- Finish with a moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and smooth.
Tan Removal Tip: For the best results, start with a gentle exfoliation using the Kaeso Pomegranate Sugar Body Scrub. It preps your skin perfectly, ensuring a closer shave and more effective tan removal.
6. Apply Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a classic DIY remedy for removing fake tan, thanks to its natural acidity. It works best on smaller areas where the tan is particularly stubborn, like streaks or patches on your hands, elbows or knees. The acid in the lemon juice helps break down the tan, making it easier to fade or remove.
How to Remove Fake Tan Using Lemon Juice:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice into a small bowl.
- Dip a cotton pad or cloth into the juice and apply it directly to the areas with unwanted tan.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the acidity to break down the tan.
- Gently rub the area in circular motions to help lift the tan.
- Rinse off with warm water and moisturise to prevent dryness.
Tan Removal Tip: If you want the power of lemon acidity in the bath or shower, try the Lusso Tan-Be-Gone Shower Bar instead of fresh lemon juice.
7. Make a DIY Baking Soda Paste
A baking soda paste is a simple yet effective DIY solution for removing fake tan. This paste works by gently exfoliating the skin and neutralising the tanning agents, making it a great option for fading unwanted tan quickly. Plus, it’s an affordable and natural alternative to store-bought removers, perfect for those last-minute tan emergencies.
How to Remove Fake Tan Using Baking Soda:
- Mix equal parts baking soda and water in a bowl to create a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to the areas where you want to remove the tan.
- Gently rub the paste into your skin using circular motions for a few minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water, ensuring all the paste is removed.
- Moisturise your skin to keep it soft and hydrated after exfoliation.
Tan Removal Tip: Use a mitt like the Lusso Tan Exfoliating Mitt to gently rub the baking soda paste into your skin. This helps lift the tan more efficiently while being gentle on your skin.
8. Give Toothpaste a Go
Toothpaste might seem like an unusual choice, but it can actually be a quick fix for small, stubborn spots of fake tan—think knuckles, fingers, or toes. The mild abrasives in toothpaste help to gently buff away the tan, making it a handy option when you need to target specific areas fast.
How to Remove Fake Tan Using Toothpaste:
- Apply a small amount of white toothpaste (avoid gel formulas) to the area with unwanted tan.
- Gently rub the toothpaste in circular motions using your fingers or a soft cloth.
- Continue for a minute or two until you see the tan begin to lift.
- Rinse off with warm water and pat the area dry.
- Moisturise to soothe and hydrate the skin after removal.
Tan Removal Tip: After using toothpaste, be sure to follow up with a nourishing hand cream like the Creightons Mango & Papaya Balance Hand Cream. This helps restore moisture and keep your skin soft and smooth.
9. Visit the Swimming Pool
Believe it or not, a trip to the swimming pool can help fade your fake tan! The chlorine in the pool water helps break down the tan, while spending time in a steam room can soften your skin, making it easier to remove the tan afterwards. It’s a relaxing way to gradually lift your tan while enjoying a bit of self-care.
How to Remove Fake Tan at the Swimming Pool:
- Take a dip in the pool and swim for about 30 minutes to let the chlorine start breaking down the tan.
- After your swim, spend some time in the steam room to further soften your skin.
- Once you’re done, head to the showers and use an exfoliating scrub to gently remove the tan.
- Rinse thoroughly and moisturise your skin to keep it hydrated and smooth.
Tan Removal Tip: Bring along an exfoliating scrub like the Creightons Raspberry & Pomegranate Body Bliss Shower Scrub and use it in the showers after your swim or steam session.
10. Try an Oil Treatment
Oil treatments are a gentle and effective way to remove fake tan, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin. Oils work by breaking down the tanning agents while also nourishing your skin, making it easier to wipe away the tan without irritation. It’s a great option if you want to fade your tan while keeping your skin soft and hydrated.
How to Remove Fake Tan Using an Oil Treatment:
- Choose an oil like coconut, baby, or olive oil and warm it slightly in your hands.
- Apply the oil generously to the areas where you want to remove the tan.
- Let the oil sit on your skin for at least 30 minutes to allow it to break down the tan.
- Use an exfoliating mitt or gloves to gently massage the oil into your skin in circular motions.
- Rinse off with warm water and follow up with a moisturiser to lock in hydration.
Tan Removal Tip: For best results, use exfoliating gloves like these Bath & Shower Exfoliating Gloves to massage the oil into your skin. This helps lift away the tan more effectively while giving your skin a gentle exfoliation.
Removing Fake Tan from Tricky Places
We all know that some spots are just more stubborn than others when it comes to fake tan—especially those tricky areas like your face, hands, feet, elbows, and knees. But don’t worry, we’ve got some quick tips to help you tackle these problem areas and get your skin back to its best.
How to Remove Fake Tan From Your Face:
Use a gentle exfoliating cleanser or a toner with a bit of glycolic acid. Apply with a cotton pad and avoid scrubbing too hard. Follow up with a hydrating face mask to soothe your skin.
How to Remove Fake Tan From Hands:
Lemon juice mixed with a bit of baking soda works wonders here. Rub it in, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse. Moisturise well after to keep your hands soft.
How to Remove Fake Tan From Feet:
Soak your feet in warm, soapy water for 10-15 minutes. Then use a pumice stone or exfoliating scrub to buff away the tan, focusing on the rougher areas like heels.
How to Remove Fake Tan From Elbows & Knees:
These areas tend to hold onto tan, so exfoliation is key. Use a scrub or exfoliating mitt, and add a bit of coconut oil to soften the skin as you gently buff away the tan.
Preparing Your Skin for Your Next Fake Tan!
We hope these tips and tricks have made removing your fake tan a whole lot easier! Whether you tan weekly or just on special occasions, feel free to revisit this guide anytime you need a fresh start. Now that your skin is clean and clear, it’s the perfect time to prep for your next glow-up.
To get your skin ready, make sure to exfoliate and moisturise regularly in the days leading up to your next tan. Focus on keeping your skin smooth and hydrated to ensure an even application.
And remember, a well-prepped canvas means a flawless, streak-free tan every time!
FAQs
How often should I exfoliate to remove fake tan?
To remove fake tan effectively, exfoliate every 2-3 days until the tan has faded evenly. Avoid over-exfoliating, as this can irritate your skin. A gentle scrub or exfoliating mitt works best, focusing on stubborn areas like elbows, knees, and ankles. Remember to moisturise after each exfoliation to keep your skin smooth and hydrated.
Can I remove fake tan in one day?
Yes, you can remove fake tan in one day, but it may require a combination of methods. Start with a long bath or shower to soften the skin, followed by an exfoliating scrub or tan remover. For stubborn areas, use a targeted treatment like lemon juice or an oil-based product. Patience and gentle exfoliation are key.