The quality of self tanners has improved a lot since they were first introduced to the market and since they left an orange and striped tan. However, the wrong shade choice and application errors are still the main causes of unlikely complexions. Even though the streaks and staining fade in a couple of weeks when the outer layer of the epidermis is shed, some people don't have time to wait for the tan to go away on its own. There is no way to remove it completely, but beauty experts recommend some tricks to get back to your natural glow as quickly as possible.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Fixing Minor Imperfections
Step 1. Assess the damage
If the tan is uniform but too dark or orange the method for removing it will be different from that used for color streaks. Check the next section if the self tanner didn't give you an "oh la la!" but rather from "umpa lumpa". But now let's focus on the spots and streaks of color.
Step 2. Use lemon
It also removes freckles, right? If with lemon you can eliminate the permanent "spots" of the skin you can certainly get rid of the temporary self-tanner too. It is best to use it for small spots or streaks or to lighten small areas if you have overdone the product. There are two methods of use:
- Mix a couple of tablespoons of lemon juice with baking soda. Spread it on the desired area, let it sit for a few minutes and rinse by scrubbing gently.
- Cut the lemon in half and rub it over the stained area. If the stain is very dark you will need to do more than one pass but you should see small improvements immediately.
Step 3. Try whitening toothpaste for uneven areas
Those little cracks between the fingers? The nightmare of every person who uses self-tanner. To clean these niches, try toothpaste, whose whitening agents work on both teeth and skin.
This trick obviously only works for small areas. Apply a small amount to your finger and massage it over the area. Remove and check the result, repeating the operation if necessary
Step 4. Use acetone or alcohol
Pour it on a cotton ball and rub it on the area to be treated. Use this method in moderation as these products can damage the skin if used in excessive quantities.
If you choose this technique, be sure to use a moisturizer after application. Your skin will need nourishment after being exposed to either of these two liquids
Part 2 of 2: Correcting the Hue
Step 1. Prepare a hot foam-filled bath
Choose a time when you will be free to soak in the tub for at least an hour. Try to do this as soon as possible after applying the self-tanner as it will be more difficult to remove when it is completely absorbed into the skin. Consider it as an excuse to spend an hour in total relaxation!
This part is optional. By soaking for a long time you can remove the product better but the scrubs and tonics work perfectly even when used alone
Step 2. Exfoliate your skin with a sugar scrub
If you don't have one, you can make it at home with natural ingredients! The sugar particles break down the top layer of the epidermis, removing the wrong coloring. Plus you'll have silky smooth skin!
- Use an exfoliating glove to speed up the process and double its effectiveness. The pumice stone would be too hard on the skin so it is best to choose a horsehair glove or a loofah.
- Then apply a gradual self-tanner if you want. It is designed to create a gradual tan and can help you even out the color left over from your previous self-tanner experience.
Step 3. Spread baby oil all over your body to reduce the hue
The more you can keep it on, the better, but try to hold out at least 10 minutes. Even better 30, if you can tolerate the hassle of staying greasy for that long! This is a good method if you are too dark or orange, as it can reduce the difference between your natural and fake complexion.
Step 4. Apply a more aggressive toner to your face, neck, hands and feet before going to bed
These body parts must be your priority as they are hardly covered with clothing. They are also more resistant areas and less prone to irritation after using a less delicate toner.
If you have a tonic with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), use it. These substances are very effective in correcting skin blemishes
Step 5. Use a self-tanner remover
Yes, there are special products and they cost around € 15. They can be found in the form of cream or soaked wipes and are very easy to use.
They are effective, but not necessarily more effective than the products you have in the bathroom or kitchen. Spend this money only if you really feel it is necessary
Step 6. Assess your skin color when you wake up in the morning
You should see noticeable improvement but if there are still spots or streaks, continue with regular baths, baking soda and lemon scrubs and toner applications. No self-tanner is that permanent, it just takes a little patience and diligence!
Advice
- Some beauty salons offer self-tanner removers. Very often they are expensive and there is no research that confirms the best effectiveness compared to do-it-yourself solutions. If you feel you really need one you might want to try one.
- Exfoliating the skin with your favorite scrub before applying the self-tanner will prepare the skin and achieve a more even complexion. There are some scrubs on the market specifically designed as a pre-treatment for self-tanning.
