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8 of the best fake tan removers that actually work to exfoliate the skin
Tiger bread skin, where?!
If you're applying fake tan on top of an old tiger bread-looking base, I hate to break it to ya but you're doing it all wrong. Just like makeup, fake tan – whether it be applied as a mousse, serum, foam or gel – should always be cleansed off of the skin. And while a loofah sponge and some soapy shower water may seem to do the trick, Jules Von Hep, Isle of Paradise founder begs to differ...
Why is it important to remove fake tan before reapplying?
Sharing his expertise, Jules says that "a build-up in tan will massively affect the head-turning ability of your next tan application. Before a tan application, skin ideally should be exfoliated, tan free and ready to go – this makes a massive difference in the evenness of the end colour."
Jules' top tip:
"If you are suffering with a spout of tan build up, go swimming – the chlorine will soften the tan, then take some exfoliating cloves and scrub in the shower (pro tip – you can use instant tan in-between tan applications – this will give a hit of colour but won’t stay on the skin after you have showered and therefore add to build up)."
What is the best method to remove fake tan?
While everyone has their preferred technique to remove fake tan – some prefer a scrub while others may like a micellar spray – Jules recommends using a glove. "In conjunction with working the gloves in circular motions with my palms, I use my fingertips to remove the tan from those more stubborn areas."
And once your preferred removal formula is applied to the skin, Jules says to return to the stubborn areas "re-massaging every minute paying special attention to those areas that are slightly dryer - elbows, knees, in between the thighs and armpits."
How long after applying and wearing fake tan should you then remove it?
Everyone's skin is different and some can hold tan longer than others but Jules prefers to "tan back to back for two weeks and then take a week break, using the tan removing tips in between."
Jules' top tip:
"I tan my face every 3rd day as the face fades faster due to our muscle movement and using AHAs."
So, with application, technique and a time frame down, see to our favourite fake tan remover formulas for a fresh base:
Skinny Tan Miracle Tan Eraser 200ml
Making for a beauty fanatics' dream, salicylic acid – y'know, that beloved skincare ingredient – is the hero chemical exfoliant in this tan eraser. Side note: Yes, you can use salicylic acid on your body, too!
And not only that but the granular texture helps to psychically work away old, tiger bread-like tan.
Isle of Paradise Over it Magic Self-Tan Eraser 200ml
Isle of Paradise's Self-Tan Eraser is the equivalent of your cleansing micellar water – that is, if it were in a spray bottle, ofc.
Just spritz a few pumps all over your skin until totally saturated and leave to work while washing your hair. Then, simply rinse and buff away (if needed) for a fresh-looking base. E Z.
Bondi Sands Self Tan Eraser 200ml
For the mousse users among us, pick up a bottle of Bondi's Self Tan Eraser. Despite its light, fluffy texture, it has no problem with removing stubborn tan.
Top tip: Leave the formula to sit on the skin for five minutes before rinsing off.
As its name would suggest, this Rose and Caramel scrub is a powerhouse.
In just 60 seconds (yes, one short minute!), this creamy, beaded formula will not only remove tan but reduce ingrown hairs, smooth skin, deeply exfoliate and remove any tough stains.
Plus, it's cruelty-free and vegan-friendly! What's not to love?
Exfoliants can be harsh on the skin and so, to protect your mitts, why not invest in a mitt... see what I did there? Skinny Tan's mitt is double-sided and can be used to not only remove tan but apply it, too!
Coconut and sea salt make for this gorgeously scented scrub that'll keep you smelling fresh for days after use. For best results, use in the shower with warm water, buffing skin to remove dead skin cells.
Et voilá! You're ready for a fresh application of your favourite tan.
For those on a budget (it's me, hi, I'm the problem, it's me), see to Boots' very own reusable exfoliating mitt. I mean, at below the price of a meal deal, you can't really go wrong!
Tan-Luxe Glyco Water Self-Tan Eraser Exfoliating Tan Remover and Primer
Not only do we love Tan-Luxe for its Cosmo Beauty Award winning Express Mousse but also for its counterpart remover.
Formulated as water, this innovative skin cleanser is made up of vitamin C and naturally derived glycolic acid, which work together to gently break down the unwanted remnants of self-tan to leave skin refreshed, toned and brightened.
Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
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