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Giving you that sun-kissed look no matter what the weather, fake tan can be your best friend – until it goes wrong, that is. Whether it’s streaks down the back of your legs, an accidental tan line halfway down your arm, or hands several shades darker than everywhere else – fake tan disasters come in all shapes and sizes.

Luckily, when you know how to get fake tan off again, it’s almost as easy as putting it on. Next time your tan doesn’t go to plan, try these top tips for removing fake tan in a flash.

How to Get Fake Tan Off

The thing about fake tan is that normally, you can’t tell you’ve got a problem until the tan starts to develop. That’s when your little mistakes, blobs, and streaks, suddenly become obvious. So, what do you when you look in the mirror and get the sinking realisation that your fake tan has gone wrong?

1. Be gentle

First of all, don’t panic! The temptation to immediately start scrubbing away at problem areas might be strong, but don’t give in to it – you’ll only end up looking even more blotchy. Instead, mix a light body polish equally with bath oil and gently massage all over your skin, paying a bit more attention to the darkest areas. Be gentle and repeat as many times as necessary.

2. Invest in a mitt

To tackle streaks and smears, you really need a tanning mitt that will help uproot those stains. Run a warm bath, add some coconut oil, and soak for at least 10 minutes before exfoliating your skin in a circular motion. For really stubborn spots, mix together lemon juice and sugar and apply with the mitt – be sure to do this before the bath though, otherwise a combination of open pores and citric acid will give you a sting!

3. Go swimming

Brave any stares and head along to the local swimming pool, where the chlorine in the water will work wonders in breaking down your fake tan. Spend some time in the sauna and steam room, then take out a pair of exfoliating gloves in the shower room, and give your skin a light buff to soften an overly strong tan.

4. Try a dishwasher tablet

If you’re wondering how to get fake tan off hands, it’s time to reach for a dishwasher tablet. Yes, you read that correctly; the detergent is perfect for bleaching away stubborn stains. Simply crumble the tablet and mix it with a little lemon juice, then rub the mixture between the palms of your hands for few minutes. Wash up afterwards, and lather on plenty of moisturiser.

Find the right fake tanning products for you

What are the best products for tanning at home?

What are the best products for tanning at home?

While we’ll always recommend getting your tan done professionally (or learning the trade yourself!), we can recommend you what we think are the top tanning products you can buy.

Our top recommended tanning products

Our top recommended tanning products

How to avoid tanning mishaps

For a smooth, fuss-free tan, always be sure to exfoliate first! There are some areas of thicker, tougher skin that are magnets for tanning disasters – especially around elbows, knees, feet, and hands. That’s why you should always wear protective gloves, or use a tanning mitt when you’re transforming your skin from pasty to beautifully bronzed. The same goes for feet; if you’re applying a spray tan, protect your soles with some Sticky Feet.

Get that glow by taking a look at our tanning product range, or take a look at more of our advice articles with Beauty by You.