How To Remove Fake Tan At Home

It’s a classic beauty blunder that can sneak up on even the most seasoned tanners. You apply your fake tan, hoping for that flawless, golden glow, and instead, you’re left with patchy ankles, orange palms, or streaky wrists that just won’t blend in. But the good news is that fake tan disasters aren’t permanent, and with the right tricks up your sleeve, they’re actually pretty easy to fix.

If your tan’s developed a little darker than expected, clung to dry patches, or started to fade unevenly, knowing how to remove fake tan at home can really save the day. From tackling stubborn fake tan on your hands to clever ways to lift colour instantly, here’s everything you need to know to get your skin back to its best.

Why Fake Tan Can Go Wrong

Fake tan is beloved for giving skin that bronzed, just-got-back-from-holiday look without the sun damage - but truth be told, it doesn’t always go to plan. Sometimes, it’s down to dry skin that grabs onto product or even forgetting to wash your hands (we’ve all done it). And once a tan’s gone patchy or uneven, it can feel like you’re stuck with it for days.

But before you reach for harsh scrubs or start frantically exfoliating, it’s worth knowing that there are plenty of gentler, more effective ways to remove fake tan, no skin-damaging scrubbing required.

How To Remove Fake Tan At Home: Basic Methods

If your tan’s on its last legs or clinging on in places you wish it wouldn’t, these are the best ways to help it fade fast, all with things you probably already have at home.

Exfoliation Is Key

Let’s start with the classic method: exfoliation. A good body scrub or exfoliating mitt is brilliant for buffing away dead skin cells and loosening leftover tan. Focus on areas like elbows, knees, ankles and wrists, where tan tends to build up the most. The trick here is to be gentle and consistent as over-scrubbing can irritate your skin and leave it feeling sore.

For an extra boost, hop in a warm bath or steamy shower first. The heat helps to soften the skin and open pores, making it easier for the tan to lift away.

Fake Tan Removers

There are also plenty of tan remover products on the market specifically designed to lift stubborn colour. These often come in mousse or lotion form and contain ingredients that help to break down fake tan pigments. Apply them to dry skin, leave them on for the recommended time, and rinse off for smoother, fresher skin.

How to Remove Fake Tan from Hands

Ah, the giveaway sign of a fake tan mishap - orange palms, stained knuckles, and patchy fingers. If you’re googling how to remove fake tan from hands in a panic, don’t worry because we’ve got a few quick fixes worth trying.

Exfoliate Gently

Start by exfoliating your hands with a gentle scrub or a damp flannel. Focus on areas between the fingers, around the nails and on the palms.

Baking Soda Trick

For extra-stubborn stains, mix a little baking soda with water to create a paste. Rub it over the affected areas for a minute or two, then rinse off. Baking soda’s mild abrasiveness can help lift tan without being too harsh.

Dish Soap & Lemon Juice

This old-school trick works surprisingly well in a pinch. Dish soap (for grease-cutting power) mixed with lemon juice (for natural brightening) can help fade fake tan from your hands. Just be sure to follow up with a rich hand cream to avoid dryness.

How To Remove Fake Tan Instantly

Need to get rid of fake tan right now? While completely removing tan instantly can be tricky, there are a few things that can speed things up if you’re in a rush.

Try a Tan Eraser

Fake tan remover products (sometimes called tan erasers) are designed for this exact scenario. They work quickly to break down fake tan, so you can rinse it away without endless scrubbing.

Hot Bath & Exfoliation Combo

A long soak in a warm bath followed by a good exfoliation session can do wonders for shifting stubborn fake tan. Add some bath oil to help soften the skin and make removal even easier.

Micellar Water for Small Areas

For small areas like hands or feet, micellar water on a cotton pad can help to lift tan gently, especially if it’s only been applied recently.

For more on achieving your glowiest skin yet, check out our guide on The Best Body Scrubs For Smooth And Glowing Skin, or dive into our complete guide on How To Apply Fake Tan Like A Pro.