Why Does My Fake Tan Go Patchy? And How to Stop It
There’s nothing worse than putting the effort into your tan, only to wake up with patchy knees, darker elbows or random areas that just didn’t get the memo.
The good news? A patchy fake tan usually isn’t random.
From how you prep your skin to what you do while your tan is developing, a few small things can make a BIG difference to your final result.
So, if you’ve ever wondered “Why does my fake tan always go patchy?”, here are some of the most common culprits.
1. Your skin prep needs a little work
We know, we know. Everyone tells you to prep before fake tanning.
But it really does matter.
Fake tan develops on the outermost layer of your skin, so areas with dry or dead skin can grab onto more product than the rest of your body. That’s when you can end up with darker patches or an uneven finish.
Exfoliate before tanning, paying particular attention to areas that tend to be drier, like your knees, elbows and ankles.
And if you’re removing an old tan first, make sure you’ve removed it evenly before going back in with a fresh layer.
2. You’re applying tan to dry skin
Dry skin and fake tan aren't exactly best friends.
Your elbows, knees, ankles, hands and feet are usually the biggest offenders because they naturally tend to be drier.
A small amount of moisturiser on these areas before you tan can help stop them from absorbing too much product.
The key word here is small. You don't need to moisturise your entire body immediately before tanning.
3. You’ve got product sitting on your skin
Perfume. Deodorant. Body oil. Moisturiser.
They may all be part of your usual routine, but ideally, you don't want them sitting between your skin and your tan.
They can create a barrier that stops your tanning product from developing evenly.
For the best result, start with clean, dry skin and save your usual body products until later.
4. Your application could be the culprit
Sometimes it really does come down to technique.
Not using enough product, missing areas or repeatedly going back over sections that have already started drying can all contribute to an uneven result.
Work methodically across the body and blend as you go.
And don't forget those easy-to-miss areas around your wrists, ankles and the sides of your body.
5. Your tan got wet while it was developing
This one's sneaky.
Washing your hands. Getting caught in the rain. Doing the dishes. Working up a sweat.
If water hits your skin while your tan is still developing, it can interfere with the process and leave lighter patches or streaks behind.
Once your tan is on, try to keep your skin dry until it's time to rinse.
Yes, we're giving you permission to leave the dishes until tomorrow. 😉
6. You left your tan on for longer than recommended
More time doesn't necessarily mean more tan.
Every tanning formula has been designed with a recommended development time, and leaving an express tan on much longer isn't the secret to getting an extra-deep glow.
Follow the instructions for the product you're using and rinse when recommended.
If you want a deeper result, you're much better off choosing a tan designed to give you that depth of colour in the first place.
7. Your old tan hasn't faded evenly
Sometimes the patchiness you're seeing isn't actually your new tan.
If there are still remnants of your previous tan hanging around, applying another layer over the top can exaggerate the unevenness.
Instead of continually layering fresh tan over old colour, give your skin a proper reset.
Remove the remaining tan, exfoliate and start again with a clean, even base.
So, what's the secret to an even fake tan?
There isn't one magic trick.
A beautiful tan comes down to good prep + the right product + good application + proper aftercare.
Get those four things right and you're giving your tan the best possible chance of developing evenly and fading beautifully.
And remember: the right tan should fit you.
Whether you want an everyday glow, something quick for last-minute plans or a deeper colour for the weekend, choose the product that suits the result you're actually trying to achieve.
Your tan. Your way.
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