Why isn’t my tan going away? Your question, the answer
Melanin plays a role in how our skin naturally protects itself from UV damage. As the skin is exposed to the sun, it naturally darkens in response. But when the tan fades, the skin starts to glow back to its natural color.
However, when the cells are damaged by pigment, the pigment does not fade, resulting in a tan that does not fade. In fact, it stays dark unless you choose to have this hyperpigmentation professionally treated.
A range of anti-pigmentation treatments are available, but to reduce hyperpigmentation, it’s best to avoid it in the first place by protecting the skin from damaging UV rays. Once you find a regimen that works for you — one that includes sunscreen, of course — stick with it to prevent the discoloration from returning.
Protects against sun-kissed glow damage? High-tech self-tanners make it easier than ever to create a reliable bronze at home. Dolce Glow, the tanning brand endorsed by the Kardashians, JLo, Miley Cyrus and more, is now available to consumers online. For a streak-free bronzer, we recommend Luso Muse ($51). To maintain your glow year-round, add Des Nuda Self Tanning Lotion ($50) also for the cart.
How to fade tan at home
While significant fading of hyperpigmentation is only possible with the help of in-office treatments and activities, home remedies can help fade the dark appearance with continued use. Exfoliating—both chemically and physically—sloughs off the outermost layer of dead skin and, combined with the right activities, can yield a brighter appearance over time. However, exfoliation makes the skin more susceptible to sun damage, so be sure to follow up with a layer of sun protection.
Skin-brightening ingredients like vitamin C and retinol — glycolic and azelaic acids also help fade dark spots — work to add overall radiance to the skin by further exfoliating the skin and encouraging the formation of new, undamaged skin cells. Not sure where to start? Find the right ingredients for your skin concerns here, or shop like a doctor with this dark spot-fading guide.
How to fade self-tanner
If you’re left with more streaks than you can count after an at-home tanning session, don’t panic. Tan-removal products—we’re partial to it Bandi sand self tan eraser ($24)—Specially formulated to help fade self-tanner and erase visible blemishes through a gentle formula.
To avoid future mistakes, choose user-friendly formulas such as St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Vitamin Bronzing Water Mist ($42), a spray-and-blend option that’s just as easy, or Luna Bronze Eclipse Tanning Mousse ($36) A velvety option that’s equal parts hydrating and bronzing for a believable finish with zero dry patches in sight.
