How long does it take for fake tan to fade completely?

Author: Miss Eulah Langosh  |  Last update: Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Before we dive into tips on how to extend your sunless tan, you're probably wondering, “Just how long does a fake tan last?” On average, your skin retains self tanner for 5-7 days, but this period of longevity can vary based on many factors. Expired self tanning products, sensitive skin, and skin types are a few.

How long until fake tan fades?

5-7 days is the average amount of time a fake tan will last on your skin.

How long does it take to get fake tan off?

Remove all-over tan quickly with a fake tan remover

To use, apply the remover, wait 10-15 minutes, then gently scrub with a cloth or exfoliating mitt. Rinse with warm water and moisturise.

How to make fake tan fade faster?

To get rid of fake tan quickly, try soaking in a warm bath with baby oil, followed by exfoliating with an exfoliating mitt.

How long does a real tan take to fade?

A natural tan will usually last for around 7-10 days, although this can vary for each different skin type and colour. However, any exposure to sun during that 7-10 day period could mean that your tan will hang around for longer, so the length of time it lasts really does depend on the individual.

How To Tan Without Getting Burnt [LIGHT HACK]

Why has my tan lasted for years?

Why won't my tan go away? When the cells become damaged with pigment, discoloration that doesn't fade occurs, leading to a tan that doesn't fade. In fact, it tends to stay dark unless you choose to have this hyperpigmentation treated professionally.

Does fake tan fade when you wash it off?

The fake tan (once developed on your skin) normally cannot simply be washed off as it has actually developed on your skin and will fade naturally over several days as your skin naturally sheds itself.

What removes fake tan ASAP?

Baking soda is a great option when you need to remove a full-body tan quickly. Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with some water or coconut oil. This will form a paste. Rub the paste over the area and leave it for 5 to 10 minutes.

Does shaving fade fake tan?

Shaving after a spray tan can remove some of the tan, leading to uneven or patchy results. Waiting 8-12 hours after the session and using gentle shaving techniques is important to maintain the tan.

How can I speed up my tan fading?

Is it possible to get rid of a tan? Sorry, but no. The tan is due to an increase in melanin, which is basically a defensive reaction from your skin being damaged by the sun. It will slowly fade if your skin is exposed to low enough levels of UV rays (e.g., in winter), but there is no way to speed this.

How to remove self tanner immediately?

Baby Oil

Raw oils like coconut, olive, or sunflower will work in a pinch, but be sure to pick up baby oil if you want the best results. When it's time to remove your self-tanner, simply slather your skin with the baby oil and leave it on for a few minutes. Then rinse it off in the shower using a loofah or washcloth.

What is the best tan remover?

VOTED THE BEST SELF-TAN ERASER BY THE INDEPENDENT!

Our Miracle Tan Eraser is formulated to remove old self-tan and target troublesome areas in a flash; apply this jelly-like hydrating scrub to your old self tan and let it work its magic!

How long does self-tan last?

Self tanners can expect their golden hue to last between 7-10 days due to the natural turnover of skin cells. Or if you get a tan outside, you can expect your tan to fade in about the same amount of time at 7-10 days as well.

Does fake tan fade patchy?

What causes a patchy fake tan? Common reasons for patchy self-tanning include having products on the skin (perfume, deodorant, oil-based moisturizers, etc.) that can cause your tan to break down and fade unevenly.

Does moisturizing help fake tan last longer?

Yes! Moisturising is key to a long-lasting, streak-free tan. Moisturise daily post-tanning to lock in hydration and leave your skin buttery smooth.

Does fake tan take away your natural tan?

There's no reason why you can't apply sunless tanner over a suntan – you'll deepen your existing colour, creating a richer, layered hue that balances out an uneven complexion. But remember that this won't make your tan last any longer; it will simply make it darker.

What makes fake tan fade faster?

Although steaming your face and body is excellent for cleansing your skin, opening up your pores and removing blackheads, it can also make your tan fade a little quicker. This is because treating yourself to a steam actually encourages your older skin layers to flake away to reveal fresh, smooth skin.

Can you fake tan with hairy legs?

Tanning lotions are fantastic for gliding across smooth skin but can be trickier to blend into a hairy chest, legs and arms. We recommend you opt for a tanning spray or mousse instead because the lighter texture is easier to buff into the skin even when applied over hairy areas.

Does Dawn dish soap remove fake tan?

Use Dish Soap

Dish soap can not only cut through grime and grease but can also get rid of your spray tan.

Does Vaseline stop fake tan?

Apply Vaseline on your brows and hairline

Applying a thin layer of Vaseline to these areas acts as a protective barrier, preventing the fake tan from clinging to your eyebrows or staining your hairline – especially if you're blonde.

How to get rid of fake tan quickly?

Luckily, some of the best DIY self-tanner removal methods only require a handful of household staples.
  1. Exfoliate with baby oil. ...
  2. Apply a sugar scrub. ...
  3. Try hair removal cream. ...
  4. Try lemon juice and baking soda. ...
  5. Use self-tan removal products. ...
  6. Use vinegar sparingly. ...
  7. Use whitening toothpaste for small areas.

How long will fake tan take to fade?

Before we dive into tips on how to extend your sunless tan, you're probably wondering, “Just how long does a fake tan last?” On average, your skin retains self tanner for 5-7 days, but this period of longevity can vary based on many factors. Expired self tanning products, sensitive skin, and skin types are a few.

Should I wash fake tan off with cold or hot water?

AFTER THE TAN

Shower lightly in cold – lukewarm water for 45 seconds ONLY after your desired development time. Use plain water, don't use shower gels, scrubs, shampoos or loofah during the first 24 hours after your treatment. Pat your skin dry. Do not rub or scrub your skin.

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