How to Fade a Fake Tan

Fake tanning products are a healthier alternative to tanning beds.

As the health risks associated with exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun or tanning beds have become increasingly well known, fake tanning products have become a popular and effective way to obtain an all-year sun-kissed look. When applied properly, fake tan lotions, gels and sprays can achieve an even, natural golden glow, but things do not always go according to plan. While letting your tan fade naturally over the course of a couple of days is the kindest solution for the skin, here are some quick fixes that will speed up the fading process.

Things You'll Need

• Alcohol-free toner or liquid makeup remover
• Cotton wool pad
• Water
• Body hair lightening cream
• Body scrub or baking soda
• Baby oil
• Cotton washcloth

Instructions

Face and Neck (References 1 - 3)

1. Apply alcohol-free toner or liquid makeup remover to a cotton wool pad.

2. Wipe the cotton wool pad gently over your skin.

3. Rinse the toner or makeup remover with clear water.

Hands and Feet (References 1 - 3)

1. Apply body hair lightening cream to your skin or to stained fingernails and toenails.

2. Leave the body hair lightening cream on your skin or nails for up to 10 minutes.

3. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Knees, Elbows and Underarms (References 1 - 3)

1. Apply body scrub or baking soda to damp skin.

2. Massage into the skin using small, gentle circles.

3. Rinse the scrub or the baking soda with clear water.

Torso, Legs and Arms (References 1 - 3)

1. Cover your skin in baby oil and leave for 30 minutes. (Reference 2)

2. Without washing off the baby oil, soak your skin in warm water (for instance, by taking a long bath).

3. Gently exfoliate your skin with a cotton washcloth while in the bath.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 daily until your fake tan fades.

Tips & Warnings

• Exfoliate and moisturize your skin before applying a fake tan to encourage even, long-lasting results. (Reference 4)

• Wear surgical gloves while applying fake tan to avoid staining your hands. (Reference 4)

• Cuticle remover can be used as an alternative to fade fake tan on small areas such as the feet, hands and ankles. (Reference 4)

• A cream containing alpha or beta hydroxy acids can be used as an alternative for sensitive areas such as the face. (References 1 - 4)

• Do not scrub your skin raw to remove fake tan; be gentle. (Reference 1 - 3)

References

• Stain Expert: Removing Fake Tan From Your Clothes and Body
• Stain Experts: Nail Polish, Hair Dye and Fake Tan Stains
• Steady Health: Tips to Remove Fake Tan
• CBS News: Choosing the Right Self Tanner