How to Remove Self-Tanner from Your Hands
We know that sometimes, self-tanning gets a little hands-on. Your hands are a hot zone for self-tanner collection. Porous skin on your palms, knuckles and cuticles absorbs more product. Not using an application mitt or gloves leads to stains. But if it’s too late for prevention, here are some of the best and fastest ways to remove excess tanner from your hands.
Baby Oil
This will leave your hands moisturized and sweet-smelling. To remove self-tanner using
baby oil, generously apply the oil to dry skin, focusing on areas where the tan appears patchy, streaky, or overly dark. Let it sit for at least 15–30 minutes to soften the color—longer if the tan is particularly stubborn. Finish by rinsing thoroughly with hot water.
Hair Removal Products
These products contain active ingredients designed to break down proteins in hair, and since many sunless tanning formulas rely on DHA—a compound that reacts with proteins in the skin to produce a bronzed color—hair removal cream can help dissolve and lift away those pigments. To use, apply a small amount of the cream to the stained area, leave it on for only a few minutes (as directed), then gently wipe away with a damp cloth.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice's citric acid acts as a gentle exfoliant and natural bleaching agent, helping to break down and lighten the self-tanner pigments. Simply soak a cotton pad or cloth in fresh lemon juice and rub the stained areas for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. For tougher spots, you can combine the lemon juice with a bit of baking soda to create a mildly abrasive paste for added exfoliation.
Toothpaste
Opt for a white, non-gel toothpaste with baking soda, as its mild abrasiveness helps exfoliate the skin and lift excess pigment. Simply apply a small amount to the stained areas, gently rub it in circular motions for a minute or two, and then rinse with warm water. For stubborn spots, you can leave the toothpaste on for 5–10 minutes before scrubbing.
Bath Scrub
The exfoliating particles in the scrub help slough off the top layer of dead skin cells where the self-tanner pigment settles, gradually lifting the color without causing irritation. For best results, choose a scrub with fine, natural granules (like sugar or salt) and moisturizing ingredients to prevent dryness. Apply the scrub to damp hands, massage in circular motions for a few minutes—focusing on areas like the knuckles and between fingers—then rinse thoroughly.
Dish Soap
Dish soap's degreasing power helps break down the oils and colorants in the tanner, especially when used promptly. For best results, mix a small amount of dish soap with a bit of baking soda to create a gentle exfoliating paste. Massage this mixture onto your hands using circular motions, focusing on stained areas around the fingers and knuckles. After scrubbing for a minute or two, rinse with warm water
Swimming, Hot Tub Or Sauna
Swimming or enjoying a hot tub or sauna can help fade the excess self-tanner, especially when combined with gentle exfoliation. Chlorinated pool water and the heat and steam from a sauna can accelerate the breakdown of the tanning pigments by drying out the outer skin layer, where the tanner sits. Afterward, finish off any stubborn areas with a warm shower.
Exfoliating Mitt
Recommended: Fake Bake In The Buff Exfoliating Mitt
This is an effective and gentle way to remove unwanted self-tanner from your hands. The textured surface of the mitt helps remove the top layer of dead skin cells, which is where the self-tanner pigment resides, without the need for harsh scrubbing or chemicals. For best results, soak your hands in warm water for a few minutes to soften the skin, then gently buff in circular motions with the mitt, focusing on areas like knuckles and between fingers where color tends to settle.
Moisturize After Self-Tanner Removal
Recommended: Fake Bake Mistifier Oil-Free Moisturizer
After removing self-tanner from your hands, it's essential to moisturize to restore hydration and keep your skin smooth. Self-tanners can leave your skin feeling dry or even slightly irritated, so applying a nourishing moisturizer helps lock in moisture and prevent the skin from becoming flaky or rough.
Always Use An Application Mitt!
Recommended: Fake Bake Ultimate Tanning Application Mitt
Using an application mitt or gloves to apply self-tanner is essential for achieving an even, streak-free tan while protecting your hands from unwanted staining. The mitt helps to distribute the product smoothly across the skin, ensuring that the self-tanner is applied evenly, preventing blotches and uneven coloring. It also acts as a barrier, keeping your hands clean and free from staining, which can be difficult to remove once set. Moreover, the soft material of the mitt or gloves prevents the product from absorbing into your hands, allowing more of the formula to reach your skin. This method not only ensures a flawless finish but also minimizes the mess, making the application process quicker and more controlled.
Follow these tips to remove excess fake tan from your hands and other trouble areas like elbows and feet. Find the technique that works best for you and your skin and enjoy your flawless glow!