11 best fake tan removers to correct, prep and prime skin
The best fake tan remover will effectively get rid of uneven streaks and patches of old tan without drying the skin out. A great addition to any self-tan kit, these new-gen formulas often combine exfoliating acids with nourishing ingredients to gently resurface skin for a smooth canvas that’s prepped and primed for a seamless self-tan.
No longer do you have to scrub your skin raw to remove all remnants of fake tan. Now, thanks to the latest crop of clever self-tan erasers, you can gently rid the skin of patchy self-tan residue in as little as five minutes. The trick is to find a formula that works for you.
Many contain ingredients like salicylic acid that, as well as breaking down tanning agents, can help keep blemishes at bay (by unclogging pores). Others are especially hydrating and suitable for skin that’s prone to dryness. Then there’s the choice of format – self-tan erasers come in mists, mousses and creams.
Ahead, we break down our go-to picks along with top fake tan removal tips from the experts…
Best fake tan removers at a glance - our top picks:
- Best rated fake tan remover overall = Tan Luxe Glyco Water Self-Tan Eraser
- Best intensive fake take remover = Utan Super Strength Tan Remover
- Best fake tan remover gel = Bondi Sands Self Tan Eraser Gel
- Best exfoliating fake tan remover = Isle of Paradise Over It Self Tan Remover
Meet the experts:
- James Harknett, bespoke spray tanner known as the Tom Ford of tanning.
- Abi Oleck, award-winning facialist at Beauskin London.
- Emily Lansley, celebrity facialist, manicurist and tanning expert.
What is fake tan remover?
Let’s begin with a recap on how fake tan works. “The tanning agent in fake tan products is called DHA and, in a nutshell, it reacts with the amino acids in dead skin cells to turn them darker – giving the impression of tanned skin,” explains James Harknett, otherwise known as the ‘Tom Ford of tanning’.
So, the only way to remove fake tan is by shedding those cells or breaking them down. This is where a fake tan remover comes in. These products typically contain physical or chemical exfoliants to break down the DHA in fake tan and help buff away (or dissolve) dead skin cells.
How does fake tan remover work?
As we mention above, fake tan removers usually contain either physical exfoliants or chemical exfoliants. Here’s how they differ:
Physical exfoliants: Body scrubs and exfoliating gloves mechanically buff away dead skin cells. While effective, “they can be fairly harsh on skin,” flags Abi Oleck, award-winning facialist.
Chemical exfoliants: Powered by exfoliating acids, most often glycolic acid, “they work to loosen dead skin cells, increasing the turnover and encouraging them to come off faster than usual,” says Abi.
How to remove fake tan properly
“Oils are another great way to break tan down,” points out Emily Lansley, facialist, and tanning expert. “I’d suggest running a hot bath, adding your favourite bath oil and soaking for a good 30-minutes to an hour.”
Short on time? “If you’re in a rush, I’d recommend using a specifically formulated fake tan remover,” suggests James. Lansley rates Bondi Sands Tan Eraser – “simply apply the foam liberally to the skin and leave for five minutes before showering with warm water.” For stubborn areas, use an exfoliating mitt, too.
Both experts recommend taking a gentler approach to the face. James recommends using micellar water (this can help break down some of the colour) as well as oil-based skincare to help break down the tan.
“By actively removing fake tan you will be stripping the skin back so don’t forget to rehydrate it! Lots of moisturiser and for the face, a good hydrating and barrier protecting serum is a good idea,” says James.
How we tested fake tan removers
Over the years, the GLAMOUR team – alongside a pool of expert freelance writers – have tested several self-tan erasers from a variety of brands. We take these experiences and use them to inform our reviews; taking details like ingredients, price points and results into account. Where we can't test a product in person, we consult our little black book of experts, as well as customer reviews, to bring you a truthful and reliable review nonetheless. You can find out more about how we test here.


%2520COPY.jpg)









