The Self-Tan Hangover: How to Fix a DIY Glow Disaster
We’ve all been there. You had the best intentions. You lit a candle, put on a robe, grabbed your mitt, and went full DIY goddess… until you woke up with orange ankles, patchy wrists, and palms that look like you high-fived a pumpkin.
Welcome to the self-tan hangover. Don’t worry—we’ve got the cure.
Here’s how to remove self tanner without losing your mind (or your weekend plans).
Step 1: Stop the Panic Scroll
Put down the TikTok hacks. Do not grab a handful of sea salt and scrub like your skin owes you money.
Here’s what not to do:
Don’t layer on more tanner (you’ll just deepen the disaster).
Don’t attack your skin with an expired sugar scrub from 2018.
Don’t cry. (Okay, you can cry a little.)
Step 2: Exfoliate (But Make It Gentle)
You can fix self tan mistakes with the right exfoliation method:
Use a soft washcloth or exfoliating mitt in the shower.
Try a gentle body scrub—emphasis on gentle.
For stubborn patches (hello, knees and elbows), mix up a little baking soda + lemon juice paste, apply SOFTLY, and rinse.
Bonus: Soak in a warm bath with a splash of bath oil to soften everything up.
Step 3: Targeted Cleanup for High-Stakes Zones
Those hands and feet looking real suspicious? Try this:
Whitening toothpaste on knuckles or between fingers
Micellar water for streaks on the face or neck
Baby oil or tan remover mousse if you’re fancy
Need emergency help before an event? Book a Just Peachy Glow—we’ve got the skills to even things out, fast.
Step 4: Rehydrate Like a Glow Queen
Tan or no tan, your skin deserves love. Slather on your fave oil-free moisturizer and let your skin reset before jumping back into your bronzing routine.
And when you do decide to glow again? Maybe… let the pros handle it next time.
Self-Tan Prevention 101
To avoid the dreaded fake tan regret in the future:
Exfoliate 24 hours before application.
Use a tanning mitt (always).
Avoid dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles—or apply a light barrier cream.
Stick with professional formulas (or better yet, professional hands).
Your tan may have ghosted you, but your glow-up is still within reach. Knowing how to remove self tanner like a pro means no more panic, no more blotchy knees, and definitely no more orange palms.
Need a glow you can trust? You know where to find us.
