How to Remove Self Tanner
The Dermatologist-Approved Way to Erase a Self-Tan
Photo by Sarah Chai via Pexels
Although you can go out in the sun for a quick tan, there's nothing quite like a self-tanning moment. Now, don't get me wrong, I love the ease and affordability of self tanners, however, they can be a bit tricky to remove. If you're reading this, then you might be wondering how to remove self tanner. In fact, it's actually quite simple if you know what to do, but it can sometimes be a bit time consuming depending on how long it's been on and how tan you are.
"Removal is not instantaneous in most cases. Partial fading can occur after one session, but complete removal generally takes one to three days depending on how deeply the DHA has developed and the individual’s natural skin turnover," says Dr. Jenna Queller, MD, FAAD, board certified dermatologist and founder of DermWorks.
Ahead, we spoke with self-tan experts and dermatologists to learn the best ways to learn how to remove self tanner. Spoiler alert: You don't need to be super aggressive with the exfoliation despite what you've probably seen on social media.
(Photo by Sarah Chai via Pexels)
How Long Should You Leave Your Self Tan On?
The longevity of your self tan will vary based on factors such as the application technique, product type and how long it's been on. "You’ll know it’s time when the tan starts to fade unevenly, typically around day five to seven. If you’re noticing patchiness, especially around hands, feet, or inner arms, then that’s your sign to remove and reset," says Isabel Alysa, celebrity tan artist, founder and CEO of Dolce Glow and Sunnee BaeSkin.
Additionally, Erika Vasco, beauty expert and founder of The Tan Edit, says if you notice a dull tone to the skin, then it's better to remove the self tanner and restart at that point rather than build on top of it. It's easy to convince yourself that your self-tan still looks good even if it's been over a week because it can be a hassle to reapply, however, you'll want to take an honest look at your skin to see if it's time to take it off.
How Do You Get Self Tan Off Quickly
If you want to figure out how to remove self tanner quickly, there are a few ways to do so. Keep in mind, when we say quickly, we mean in a few sessions and not instantaneously. It's worth noting that poorer-quality formulas tend to fade unevenly and much faster sometimes within two to four days, according to Mishel Chernyavskiy, celebrity spray tanner and founder of MSK Labs.
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May 20, 2026
Authors
Casey Clark is a freelance journalist and content creator from New York City who specializes in beauty, fashion and commerce. She holds a bachelor's degree from Hofstra University in journalism and her byline appears in major national publications in
Written By:
Casey Clark
Start With Exfoliation
You may have heard about the importance of exfoliation when it comes to self tanner removal and it is an imperative part of the process. According to Dr. Queller, self-tanner can be safely removed by focusing on the outermost layer of the skin where the active ingredient dihydroxyacetone (DHA) binds to proteins in the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the skin.)
"The most effective approach is a combination of gentle chemical exfoliation using alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic or lactic acid paired with light physical exfoliation, such as a soft washcloth or exfoliating mitt," Dr. Queller explains.
Some brands sell exfoliating mitts you can buy or you can just pick up a soft washcloth from your laundry room and get started without spending extra money. You can try both to see which one works best for you and go from there.
Keep in mind that facial skin is more delicate and responds best to mild exfoliants like lactic acid or enzyme cleansers whereas thicker areas such as the elbows, knees, and ankles may require more consistent exfoliation for self tanner removal.
"You want products that are non-comedogenic and less harsh, especially if you’re acne-prone or sensitive," says Chernyavisky.
If you've never exfoliated before, then you'll want to be gentle as it can be quite jarring for those with sensitive skin. For example, first time exfoliators might experience redness, dryness and potential itchiness from the process.
Use Oils
Oils on their own won't get a spray tan off; however, they can help set the stage for a more successful result during the removal process. "Oils, including mineral oil or coconut oil, can also help loosen the pigment, especially when followed by a warm shower to soften the skin," says Dr. Queller. You'll want to leave the oil on the skin for 10 to 30 minutes before showering for it to be most effective in loosening the outermost layer of the skin.
Think of oil as an addition to your self-tanner removal routine instead of a first-line option. This can be suitable for those with sensitive skin who don't want to exfoliate too much or want an additional boost along the way.
Try Self-Tanner Removal Products
There are products on the market designed specifically for getting a spray tan off. "Products like St. Tropez Tan Remover Mousse, Bondi Sands Self Tan Eraser, and Isle of Paradise Over It Magic Self-Tan Eraser are specifically designed to break down and lift DHA pigment," says Dr. Queller. "These formulations typically work by rehydrating the skin and weakening the bond between the pigment and the outer skin cells, making exfoliation more effective."
Go in the Shower
All of these methods involve taking a shower to use warm water to rinse off the pigment and strip off the tan. "Warm showers both soften the skin and help lift the color for a more even fade" says Peta Murgatroyd, founder of Peta Jane Beauty.
What To Avoid When Removing Self Tanner
When thinking about how to get off self tanner, overexfoliating might seem like the best option, but it's really not the case and it can actually do your skin more harm than good.
"Over-exfoliating in an attempt to quickly strip self-tanner can backfire, leading to irritation and uneven results," says Dr. Queller. "A gentle, consistent approach not only removes self-tanner more evenly but also keeps the skin looking healthy and radiant."
Vasco adds that the goal of exfoliation isn’t to strip off the tan, but to lift it evenly without disrupting the skin.
Our Final Thoughts on Removing Sunless Tanner
When it comes to answering the question, "How can you remove a fake tan?" the answer is actually quite simple. A gentle, consistent approach can not only help remove it more evenly, but also can help keep your skin looking and feeling healthy. Rarely will you be able to achieve full self-tanner removal at once, but it can take between three to five sessions in most cases to completely get rid of it. It's important to be patient and trust the process while also keeping the health of your skin a top priority.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sunless Tanner Removal
How long does self tanner take to fade naturally?
According to Alysa, most self-tanners fade naturally over five to seven days as your skin naturally exfoliates. This will usually reveal fresh, untanned skin underneath in the following week. Although you can wait for your self tanner to fade naturally, you'll want to use products such as baby oil and remover to make sure it's thoroughly washed off.
Can you remove self tanner the same day you apply it?
Perhaps you want to put on some self tanner for a photo shoot or a wedding. The question then becomes, "Can you remove self-tanner the same day you apply it?" The short answer is yes, but it depends on timing.
"It is possible to reduce or remove self-tanner the same day it’s applied—especially within the first few hours before full development, but once the color has set, removal becomes more gradual," Alysa tells Rank & Style.
Murgatroyd adds that if you catch it early, especially within the first few hours, warm water and a gentle exfoliant can significantly reduce or fully remove the developing color.
Does baby oil remove fake tan?
For an at-home removal option, baby oil is a great choice. "It helps break down the tan by softening the skin," says Alysa. "I recommend applying it, letting it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then following with a warm shower and gentle exfoliation to fully lift the color." Baby oil is suitable for those with more sensitive skin who might be more prone to irritation from excessive exfoliation.
What removes self tanner from clothes or sheets?
If you keep your self tan on overnight or even sit down too quickly, then it could get on your clothes and bed sheets. "Most transfer happens when your tan isn’t fully dry," says Alysa. "Lightly pat powder over the skin or hit your body with a cool setting on a blow dryer to make sure everything is fully dry. It makes a huge difference in preventing stains in the first place."
It's important not to panic or freak out if you notice stains on your clothes or sheets, but you'll want to act swiftly. "Self-tanner is usually water-based, so acting quickly is key," says Alysa. "Rinse with cold water first, then use a stain remover or gentle detergent to break down the pigment."
Authors
Casey Clark is a freelance journalist and content creator from New York City who specializes in beauty, fashion and commerce. She holds a bachelor's degree from Hofstra University in journalism and her byline appears in major national publications in
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