How to Remove Self-Tan from Your Hands and Feet

Ever finished applying your self-tan, only to notice your knuckles or ankles looking a little darker than everything else? It happens. Hands and feet are often the trickiest areas to get right, especially when old tan starts to fade unevenly. Here’s what to do when the colour needs a tidy-up.

The skin around your knuckles, toes and ankles can be drier than the rest of your body. Those little creases also make it easy for tanning products to collect, so you may end up with darker spots even when the rest of your tan looks lovely.

If you notice a patch, don’t reach straight for a rough scrub. Rubbing too hard can leave your skin irritated. It’s better to be gentle and give the old tan time to lift.

When it’s time to remove your old tan, a dedicated remover can make the job easier. Our Velvet Luxury Tan Eraser is a foaming 2-in-1 product made to help remove leftover self-tan and prepare your skin for the next application. It contains aloe vera and glycerin, so the routine is about looking after your skin as well as removing colour.

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The directions are simple:

1. Wait at least three days after your last tan before using the Tan Eraser.

2. Apply the foam generously to dry skin.

3.  Leave it on for five minutes.

4.  Rinse with warm water, using a damp cloth to help remove tan residue.

When removing tan from your hands and feet, gently wipe away any remaining residue with a damp cloth. There's no need to scrub harshly.

Before using the Tan Eraser for the first time, do a patch test on your inner elbow 24 hours beforehand. Avoid using it on broken or irritated skin, and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Before applying fresh self-tan, gently exfoliate and start with clean, dry skin. Use a tanning mitt and go lightly over hands, wrists, ankles and feet, blending any remaining product rather than adding a heavy extra layer. Once your tan has developed and you’ve rinsed it according to the product directions, moisturise regularly to help keep the finish looking even.

A patchy spot doesn’t mean you have to give up on your tan. A little care when removing old colour and a lighter touch when applying the next one can make all the difference.

If your old tan is ready to come off, take a look at our Velvet Luxury Tan Eraser before your next tanning session.