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.
Scroll for our full edit of fake tan remover products to shop now
Why we love it: This mist-on tan eraser from Boots is a great purse-friendly pick that lives up to formulas twice and even thrice its price point. Simple spritz it all over skin and leave it to work for five minutes before rinsing it off in the shower. It’s great for tackling stubborn scaliness that lingers on the knees and elbows.
Pros: Affordable, removes remnants of old tan, works quickly.
Cons: Skin felt a little sensitive after use.
Why we love it: Erase all evidence of a fake tan mishap with this Miracle Self-Tan Eraser from Skinny Tan. Vegan-friendly, the gel-like formula combines chemical (salicylic acid) and physical (pumice) exfoliants to effectively remove unwanted patches or streaks in minutes. Laced with key moisturisers, it leaves skin feeling super smooth, too. I'm hooked!
Pros: Removes stubborn tan and streaks, skin feels smooth after use, we love the scrub texture.
Cons: None, we love this fake tan remover.
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This foaming mousse from Crazy Angel is so easy to use. Apply a few pumps all over skin and rub it in (like a body cleanser). Wait for a few minutes to let the exfoliating ingredients work their magic before rinsing it off in the shower. There’s no need to scrub, and skin never feels stripped of moisture – big tick!
Pros: Vegan-friendly, lightweight texture, removes fake tan without drying skin.
Cons: Foaming texture can be messy to apply.
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Utan Super Strength Tan Remover
Why we love it: A pH-balanced formula, Utan’s Super Strength remover breaks down even the most stubborn of old tan. Incredibly easy to use, the foam formula is packed with cannabis sativa seed oil and aloe vera to intensely hydrate and soothe skin. It can be applied and left on for up to 30 minutes to help remove product build up and prep skin for the next dose of fake tan.
Pros: pH-balanced, effectively removes stubborn old tan, hydrates skin.
Cons: Not effective at removing fresh fake tan.
Bondi Sands Self Tan Eraser Gel
Why we love it: This clever gel formula is great for ensuring skin remains as hydrated as possible – and it works in just a few short minutes. Best used on fake tan that’s around three or four days old, apply it liberally onto dry skin, and then after five minutes use a cloth to wipe away the tan. Or, if there are any particularly stubborn areas, use an exfoliating mitt for a helping hand.
Pros: Easy to apply, non-drying formula, removes fake tan with the help of a mitt.
Cons: Gel is slightly sticky and the scent is strong.
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Isle of Paradise Over It Self Tan Remover
Why we love it: Not only does micellar water swiftly remove makeup, but it can also rid skin of streaks and fake tan patches, too. Find it in Isle of Paradise’s Over It Magic Self-Tan Eraser where it's paired with glycolic acid to slough away old fake tan.
Pros: Gentle formula, easy to apply, non-sticky.
Cons: Requires liberal application to remove old tan.
Tanologist Self Tan Eraser + Primer
Why we love it: This foaming formula not only works to effectively dissolve and remove the remnants of fake tan, but it also contains 3% glycolic acid which works to exfoliate and prime the skin -ensuring it’s smooth, glowing and ready for your next application of tan.
Pros: Subtly scented, hydrating formula, removes dead skin cells.
Cons: Not as powerful as other fake tan removers.
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Why we love it: If you’re travelling, this fake tan removal mitt makes for a great companion without taking up much space. It fits over your hand and helps to buff away any remnants of fake tan, as well as dry, flaky skin. It gently exfoliates and works best on damp skin, especially if you use it in tandem with your regular shower gel.
Pros: Buffs away old fake tan with ease, no need to scrub, leaves skin feeling silky soft.
Cons: None, we love this.
Why we love it: This fake tan remover ensures you start with a clean canvas before your next application. Rich and hydrating, it’s formulated with a blend of botanical ingredients (like goji berry, oatmeal and chamomile) to nourish skin while locking in moisture to prevent your tan from drying out.
Pros: Incredibly hydrating, subtly scented and works like a dream.
Cons: None, we love this.
Rose & Caramel Purity Fade Away Tan Removing Shower Gel
Why we love it: Seriously good, I'm a big fan of this multi-tasking shower gel from Rose & Caramel that gently cleanses skin while fading fake tan (thanks to its blend of chemical exfoliants). For best results, I recommend pumping a generous amount onto an exfoliating mitt before buffing the skin. Expect silky soft limbs and an even fade.
Pros: Two-in-one product, saves time, gently exfoliates old fake tan.
Cons: Not as effective as other fake tan removers.
