Best Ways to Remove Fake Tan Without Damaging Your Skin

We’ve all been there — the patchy knees, the orange wrists, or a full-body shade that wasn’t quite what you had in mind. Whether it’s too dark, uneven, or you’re just ready to start fresh, the good news is that fake tan can be removed at home using a few simple techniques.

Some methods work instantly, others take a day or two — but with a bit of patience, you can fade or remove your fake tan without harming your skin.

1. Exfoliate Gently

The most effective method is gentle exfoliation. Use a body scrub, exfoliating gloves, or a dry brush to slough off dead skin cells — where the tan sits. Focus on problem areas like elbows, knees, ankles, and wrists, but don’t scrub too hard or you’ll risk redness and irritation.

Pro tip: Exfoliate after a warm bath or shower, when your skin is softer and the tan is already starting to fade.

2. Take a Warm Bath with Baby Oil

Soaking in a warm bath for 20–30 minutes helps soften the tan. Adding a few drops of baby oil helps loosen the colour. After soaking, use a flannel or mitt to gently buff away the tan.

This method works well for stubborn build-up or tan that’s clinging to dry patches.

3. Use a Tan Remover Product

Several high street brands offer fake tan removers designed specifically to break down tanning products without drying out your skin. These come in mousse, gel, or scrub formulas and are usually applied like a mask, left for 5–10 minutes, then rinsed off.

Look for products from brands like Bondi Sands, St. Tropez, or Isle of Paradise.

4. Try Bicarbonate of Soda and Lemon Juice (Carefully)

Mix bicarbonate of soda with a little lemon juice to form a gentle paste. Apply it to the skin and leave for a few minutes before washing off. The natural acidity of lemon helps fade the tan, and the bicarb offers mild exfoliation.

Use sparingly, and never on sensitive areas or broken skin.

5. Steam & Sweat It Out

Steam rooms or a long steamy shower can help open up your pores and loosen fake tan. Follow it up with a gentle exfoliator or tan remover mitt to wipe it away.

This method is great for removing tan from hard-to-reach areas or fading stubborn patches evenly.

What About Your Face?

The skin on your face is more sensitive, so avoid harsh scrubs or strong tan removers. Instead:

• Use a gentle exfoliating cleanser

• Apply micellar water or a cleansing balm

• Add a few drops of glycolic acid toner to your skincare (avoid your eyes and lips)

These methods fade facial tan gradually without stripping your skin.

What to Avoid

• Scrubbing too hard – it can cause raw skin or microtears

• Bleach or heavy-duty cleaning products – yes, people have tried this, no, don’t do it

• Hair removal creams – some say they strip tan, but they can irritate skin badly

• Overuse of lemon juice or acidic DIYs – can lead to dryness and irritation

Final Thought

Removing fake tan doesn’t need to be a drama. Whether you’re correcting a mishap or just resetting before a fresh application, there are plenty of ways to remove fake tan at home. The key is to go gently, stay hydrated, and exfoliate gradually — and if in doubt, there’s always a tan remover on standby at your local pharmacy or beauty shop.