How to remove fake tan like an expert

Applying a streak-free tan is one thing, as for how to remove your fake tan once it’s on its last legs? That’s a whole new struggle.

Unless you possess ultra steady hands or an immaculate eye for detail, fake-tanners will be all too familiar with the patchiness that plagues every decent tan at one point or another. Even those who stick to a pro glow (and leave their tans in the hands of the experts) will likely have noticed some areas fading faster than others, leaving a streaky trail behind.

But, if you know how to take care of your skin before and after tanning, you can keep your faux glow looking fresh all the way through. 

We asked sunless tanning and skin finishing expert, Kimberley Nkosi, the tricks of the trade. “When it comes to removing sunless tan I always say that gradual is better,” she says. “Not only does it mean that we treat skin kindly, it also means we ensure a nice even fade and – hopefully – no tell-tale signs of ever having had a ‘fake tan’ in the first place. Instead you can maintain a slight summer glow that disappears gradually, leaving your skin looking super glossy and healthy.”

The dos

First up, follow the instructions. “Always follow the guidelines and seek professional help where needed,” says Kim. If proper pre-tan advice is followed, your tan removal should be effortless and easy.

Second, keep it gentle. “You don’t want to irritate the skin and cause patchiness, so always take your time and gradually remove tan every two-to-three days,” says Kim, rather than going in all-guns-blazing and scrubbing your skin raw.

The don’ts

“Don’t use a brillo pad to exfoliate skin,” warns Kim. “Yes, it has been done – and I’m sure I don’t need to tell you why this is not a good way to remove your tan quickly and efficiently,” she adds. “Instead use a body brush or light exfoliator. These are much more gentle on skin and designed for dead skin removal.” Again, limit use to every two to three days. “We don’t want to dry skin out. We want to maintain and hydrate it,” explains Kim.

The hacks

Before you hit the shops, Kim has a couple of homemade remedies she swears by to gently remove tan. “A firm favourite of mine that works well is brown sugar or Epsom salts combined with lime juice (a natural form or citric acid), almond oil, a few drops of vitamin E and one of my favourite scents, like rose oil, lavender or vanilla,” says Kim. In fact, lime juice on its own can work magic. “It’s very effective but it can be drying, so use sparingly,” advises Kim.

Looking for a quick fix? Below are Kim’s top recommendations for how to remove your fake tan seamlessly…

Love a golden glow but looking for something different? We also have reviews on the best gradual tans, best tan for pale skin, bronzers, fake tans for your face and in-salon spray tans. Plus (we’re spoiling you), our top tanning tips to make sure your fake tan looks the best it can be.