No matter how often you've applied fake tan, even the pros amongst us have mishaps. You know the usual self tan culprits like orange elbows, stained fingers, streaks and white patches in places you couldn't quite reach when applying. But you'll be very glad to know that for every fake tan mistake, there's an easy fix. Mistakes are unfortunate, but thankfully not permanent. If you're a beginner check out our helpful guide to choosing the right tan - because eliminating self tan problems really starts there. If you're planning a bronzed goddess look for a night out, or special occasion and DIYing your own tan, then bookmark the following tips in case you fall victim to streaks and dodgy dark spots. These 7 easy fixes for fake tan mistakes will save the day!
How to Fix Fake Tan Mistakes
The Problem: Patchy Fake Tan
Solution: This happens to all of us. Along the sides of the feet and wrists are common spots for weird stripes and patches. It might be from dressing too quickly after applying self tan or that we've applied too much to these dry, high contact areas, but it's easily fixed. If the tan has dried and developed there's no point scrubbing at it, instead, get glycolic acid toner such as Exfoliate Glycolic Acid from Pestle & Mortar, €29. The acid in toner helps boost radiance in the complexion by dissolving away dead skin cells that dull it. Apply it to tan patches and it will fade the offending stripes and tan build up.
The Problem: Your Hands Are Too Dark
Solution: The general rule of tanning hands and feet is that you leave them to the very end of your session, layering the limbs, back, and torso before moving on to these tricky parts. Use no extra tan on your mitt, just the residue that's left on it to sweep over your hands and feet. Some people swear by curling their fingers into a fist shape to avoid white marks on the knuckles, and it does work if your self tan is a dark shade. For the feet, avoid the lines that can form along the sides by not putting on shoes or socks too soon after fake tan application.
The Problem: Self Tan Streaks
Solution: Yes, you can be as careful as you like, but self tan streaks happen to us all. The backs of the calves and upper arms seem to suffer the most with self tan streaks. Not something you need if you're wearing a sleeveless gown or short hemline. To avoid disrupting the rest of your tan, this is the time to use a self tan remover like Over It from Isle of Paradise, €29, or an exfoliator. Usually, in mousse form, self-tan remover can be applied to targeted areas and tends to contain glycolic acid. Follow the instructions and watch those offending streaks disappear!
The Problem: You've Used Too Much Self Tan
Solution: It is possible to go too far with self tan in order to get a deeper glow. Not to worry, there's a pretty easy fix to tone down this fake tan mistake. Contrary to what you might think, don't over-scrub the skin, as that won't guarantee an even fade. Instead, take a dollop of regular body scrub and gently rub it over the skin, so you reduce the result evenly. If the situation is really bad, add a few drops of body oil to the scrub. Self tan does not like body oil because it breaks it down, the scrub/oil mix will reduce the look of a too dark tan in a single session. Follow with lotion to rehydrate the skin.
The Problem: Your Back Has White Patches
Solution: Not everyone is flexible enough to self tan their entire back without missing a spot. There are two solutions here. Firstly, you can opt for a mist formula tan like Skinny Water Tanning Mist, €26.45, to deliver an even dose of colour, making sure the centre of the back is completely covered. Alternatively, grab a wooden spoon from the kitchen and pop your tanning mitt on the end. To stop it from slipping off, secure it with a hair tie or elastic band. Put tan on it, then, over your shoulder, use the spoon to sweep the tan across your back. Either of these solutions will work, but if there's anyone about you can trust, it'd be easier to ask them for a helping hand. Check their work thoroughly though after they've finished!
The Problem: Your Tan Isn't Fading Evenly
Solution: Regular fan tan users will identify with this mistake. You have that important occasion coming, but your old layer of tan is hanging around and looking patchy. Naturally, exfoliating will shift a lot of it, but you need to plan your sessions carefully. Exfoliate and moisturise with a rich body lotion one day, and the following day apply your tan. Self tan tends to be sucked up by dry skin which causes dark streaks in the drier areas, while exfoliated and hydrated skin develops a more even, natural looking tan, which will fade accordingly.
The Problem: Your Fake Tan Isn't Dark Enough
Solution: When your tan has developed, but not as deep as you'd like, there is a hack that can get that darker bronze you desire. Self tan takes six to eight hours to develop fully, so use the clock to gradually get the best tan in less than two days before your big day. Day one, apply a layer of high quality tan, like Illuminating Body Mousse by Amanda Harrington, €44, in the morning and leave it for eight hours. When developed, shower it off, dry the skin and apply another layer and go to bed with it on. After showering on the morning of day two, see how tanned your skin is. If it's satisfactory, moisturise but if your want it darker, apply a third layer of fake tan and wait another eight hours before rinsing. At the end of the second day, you should look as though you have been holidaying in Marbella for a month.
Loved these easy fixes for fake tan mistakes? We've got tonnes more expert hacks and beauty dilemma advice for you to read below!
