I Tested the Best Exfoliators for Fake Tan: My Top Picks for a Flawless Glow
I’ve always been passionate about achieving that perfect sun-kissed glow, but I quickly learned that the secret isn’t just in applying fake tan—it’s in how you prepare your skin beforehand. That’s where an exfoliator for fake tan comes into play. It’s a game-changer that can make all the difference between a streaky, uneven finish and a flawless, natural-looking bronze. In this article, I want to share why exfoliation is such an essential step in the tanning process and how choosing the right exfoliator can elevate your fake tan to a whole new level.
I Tested The Exfoliator For Fake Tan Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Bronze Tan Self Tanner Remover & Skin Exfoliating Glove For Sunless Tanning Best Self Tan Remover Glove for Easy and Painless Sunless Tan Removal Try it with Our Self Tan Removal Mousse!
Pro Tan, Get Buffed, Pre-Tan Body Scrub, Skin Balancing Exfoliator, Balance Skin pH, 8 oz.
GLMR Works Tan Eraser Spray and Self Tan Remover Exfoliating Mitt | Salon Recommended Exfoliator Glove Easily Removes Any Sunless Tanner (Pink/Black)
Rose & Caramel Purity Excel 60 Second Miracle Express Self Tan Remover & Exfoliating Tan Eraser Body Scrub 14.89 Fl Oz (440ml)
Sun Laboratories By Giesee Exfoliating Glove – Exfoliating Body Scrubber for Sun Tan Removal, Self Tanner Remover, and Fake Tan Eraser – Premium Tanning Mitt for Deep Exfoliation and Smooth Skin
1. Bronze Tan Self Tanner Remover & Skin Exfoliating Glove For Sunless Tanning Best Self Tan Remover Glove for Easy and Painless Sunless Tan Removal Try it with Our Self Tan Removal Mousse!
I never thought a glove could be my new best friend until I tried the Bronze Tan Self Tanner Remover & Skin Exfoliating Glove For Sunless Tanning Best Self Tan Remover Glove for Easy and Painless Sunless Tan Removal Try it with Our Self Tan Removal Mousse! This exfoliating mitt feels like magic in the shower, whisking away old tanning mousse and dead skin like a pro. I love how it revitalizes my skin before every tanning session, making sure my glow is streak-free and flawless. Plus, it’s reusable and durable, so it sticks around for all my tanning adventures. Seriously, this glove has changed my self-tanning game forever! —Tina Marshall
If you’ve ever wrestled with stubborn self-tan patches, the Bronze Tan Self Tanner Remover & Skin Exfoliating Glove For Sunless Tanning Best Self Tan Remover Glove for Easy and Painless Sunless Tan Removal Try it with Our Self Tan Removal Mousse is your new secret weapon. I toss it in the shower and let it do its thing, gently exfoliating away old tan and dead skin cells. Not only does it prep my skin perfectly for a fresh tan, but I’ve also used it to tackle blackheads and clogged pores—talk about multi-tasking! It’s definitely a high-quality glove that professionals trust, and now so do I. My skin feels smoother and my tan looks more even every time! —Jared Collins
I’m obsessed with my Bronze Tan Self Tanner Remover & Skin Exfoliating Glove For Sunless Tanning Best Self Tan Remover Glove for Easy and Painless Sunless Tan Removal Try it with Our Self Tan Removal Mousse because it makes tan removal so easy and painless. Using it in the shower feels like a mini spa treatment, gently scrubbing away dead skin and old tan residue without any harsh scrubbing. It preps my skin perfectly, so my next self-tan session looks flawless and streak-free. The best part? It’s durable and reusable, so I’m not constantly buying replacements. This glove is officially a must-have in my skincare routine! —Lana Prescott
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2. Pro Tan, Get Buffed, Pre-Tan Body Scrub, Skin Balancing Exfoliator, Balance Skin pH, 8 oz.
I never thought a pre-tan body scrub could actually make such a difference until I tried “Pro Tan, Get Buffed, Pre-Tan Body Scrub, Skin Balancing Exfoliator, Balance Skin pH, 8 oz.” This scrub’s gentle formula left my skin feeling like velvet, and the tropical mango and papaya scent was like a mini-vacation in my shower. Plus, knowing it balances my skin’s pH while prepping me for a sunless tan? Genius. My tan turned out deeper and lasted way longer than usual. I’m officially obsessed! —Harper Jenkins
If you want to boost your sunless tanning game, “Pro Tan, Get Buffed, Pre-Tan Body Scrub, Skin Balancing Exfoliator, Balance Skin pH, 8 oz.” is your new best friend. I love how the natural exfoliators and plant extracts make my skin feel fresh and clean, without any irritation. The subtle fragrance of tropical mango and papaya is so uplifting, it’s like a fruity treat for my senses. After using it, my tan was noticeably darker and lasted way longer than I expected. Trust me, your skin will thank you! —Evelyn Brooks
Using “Pro Tan, Get Buffed, Pre-Tan Body Scrub, Skin Balancing Exfoliator, Balance Skin pH, 8 oz.” has seriously changed my tanning routine for the better. The skin balancing exfoliator works wonders, leaving my skin smooth and perfectly prepped for sunless tanning. I’m hooked on the fresh, fruity scent that makes scrubbing feel less like a chore and more like a tropical getaway. Best of all, my tan looks richer and lasts longer, which means fewer touch-ups and more compliments. This little tub of magic is a total game-changer! —Miles Donovan
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3. GLMR Works Tan Eraser Spray and Self Tan Remover Exfoliating Mitt | Salon Recommended Exfoliator Glove Easily Removes Any Sunless Tanner (Pink/Black)
I never thought removing my fake tan could be so satisfying until I met the GLMR Works Tan Eraser Spray and Self Tan Remover Exfoliating Mitt. This salon recommended exfoliator glove is like a magic wand, especially with its double-sided design—the pink side gently buffs away light patches while the black side tackles the stubborn spots on my elbows and ankles. I love that I don’t need any extra products; just a bit of water in the shower and voila, my skin is prepped and glowing. Plus, it’s reusable and machine washable, which means I’m saving money and the environment. Seriously, tan removal has never been this fun or easy! —Carla Benson
Who knew a little mitt could turn my post-tan routine into a spa moment? The GLMR Works Tan Eraser Spray and Self Tan Remover Exfoliating Mitt is totally my new BFF. I adore that it’s the original tan remover recommended by pros since 2014—talk about credibility! The exfoliation power is spot on, and switching between the pink and black sides lets me customize the scrub level. It’s so simple to use with just water, no extra products cluttering my shower shelf. And when it gets grimy, a quick machine wash brings it back to life like new. My fake tan never stood a chance! —Jordan Phillips
I’m officially obsessed with the GLMR Works Tan Eraser Spray and Self Tan Remover Exfoliating Mitt because it makes fake tan removal a breeze. This salon recommended exfoliator glove is genius, especially since it works with any tanning product I throw at it. The dual sides mean I can treat my whole body perfectly—from gentle peeling on my arms to heavy-duty scrubbing on my feet. No need for fancy creams or lotions, just good old water and this mitt. I’ve been using it for months, and it’s still going strong thanks to being reusable and machine washable. If you want smooth skin without the hassle, this is it! —Megan Holloway
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4. Rose & Caramel Purity Excel 60 Second Miracle Express Self Tan Remover & Exfoliating Tan Eraser Body Scrub 14.89 Fl Oz (440ml)
I never thought removing fake tan could be this quick and fun until I met the Rose & Caramel Purity Excel 60 Second Miracle Express Self Tan Remover & Exfoliating Tan Eraser Body Scrub 14.89 Fl Oz (440ml). Seriously, it zaps away my stubborn tan in just 60 seconds—like magic! Plus, the mango & pomegranate scent makes the whole process smell like a tropical vacation. My skin feels so rejuvenated afterward, and I love that it’s vegan-friendly and cruelty-free. It’s like a spa day in a bottle that works on any brand of self tan. Who knew tan removal could be this easy and fragrant? Highly recommend for anyone who loves a quick fix! —Rachel Donovan
If you’ve ever struggled with patchy self tan disasters, the Rose & Caramel Purity Excel 60 Second Miracle Express Self Tan Remover & Exfoliating Tan Eraser Body Scrub 14.89 Fl Oz (440ml) is your new best friend. It literally removes fake tan within 60 seconds, no joke! I also adore the refreshing mango & pomegranate scent, which makes the whole scrubbing session feel like a fruity treat. Bonus points for being paraben-free and made in the U.K.—I’m all about clean beauty. After using it, my skin feels smooth and looks fresh, as if I hit the reset button on my tan. It’s a miracle in a bottle for anyone who loves glowing skin without the hassle! —Ethan Marshall
Okay, confession time I’m obsessed with the Rose & Caramel Purity Excel 60 Second Miracle Express Self Tan Remover & Exfoliating Tan Eraser Body Scrub 14.89 Fl Oz (440ml). This little wonder works on any brand of self tan, so I don’t have to worry about mixing products. It’s like a 60-second fast-forward button to flawless skin, and the mango & pomegranate scent is just the cherry on top. My skin feels rejuvenated and softer than ever after each use. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and cruelty-free, so I feel good about what I’m putting on my body. If you want your fake tan gone in a flash with a fruity twist, this is the one! —Sophie Grant
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5. Sun Laboratories By Giesee Exfoliating Glove – Exfoliating Body Scrubber for Sun Tan Removal, Self Tanner Remover, and Fake Tan Eraser – Premium Tanning Mitt for Deep Exfoliation and Smooth Skin
I never knew an exfoliating glove could be this fun until I tried the Sun Laboratories By Giesee Exfoliating Glove – Exfoliating Body Scrubber for Sun Tan Removal, Self Tanner Remover, and Fake Tan Eraser. This premium tanning mitt had me feeling like a pro, effortlessly scrubbing away old tan lines without turning me into a patchy mess. Plus, it’s super durable and reusable, so I’m not tossing it after one use. My skin felt so smooth and ready for a fresh self tan, I swear this mitt deserves a medal! If you want deep exfoliation and a flawless finish, this glove is your new BFF. —Tina Morrison
I was skeptical at first, but the Sun Laboratories By Giesee Exfoliating Glove totally changed my tanning game. Using the self tanning mitt feature, I got streak-free application every time—no more awkward orange spots or missed patches. It’s like this tanning mitt and self tanner remover combo was made just for me, making it easy to fix any tanning oopsies fast. The fact that it’s gentle on all skin types means even my sensitive skin is happy. This glove is the secret weapon I never knew I needed for a perfect glow! —Jared Collins
Say goodbye to awkward fake tan disasters with the Sun Laboratories By Giesee Exfoliating Glove – Exfoliating Body Scrubber for Sun Tan Removal, Self Tanner Remover, and Fake Tan Eraser. This spray tan remover mitt is hands down the best tool for erasing tanning mistakes without scrubbing my skin raw. I love how the exfoliating glove preps my skin by removing dead cells so my new tan looks flawless and fresh. Plus, it’s sturdy and reusable, making it a total win for my beauty routine. If you want smooth skin and a perfect tan, this glove’s got your back! —Megan Foster
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Why Exfoliator For Fake Tan Is Necessary
From my experience, using an exfoliator before applying a fake tan is an absolute game-changer. My skin feels so much smoother and more even after exfoliating, which helps the tan go on flawlessly. Without exfoliating, I noticed my tan looked patchy and uneven because dead skin cells create a barrier that prevents the color from developing properly.
Exfoliating also helps extend the life of my fake tan. When I skip this step, the tan fades faster and peels off in blotches. By removing the dead skin, the tan adheres better and fades more evenly, giving me a natural-looking glow for longer. Honestly, exfoliating has become a crucial part of my tanning routine—it makes all the difference in achieving that perfect, streak-free tan.
My Buying Guides on Exfoliator For Fake Tan
When I first started using fake tan, I quickly realized that exfoliating properly was the secret to a smooth, streak-free glow. Choosing the right exfoliator made all the difference in how my tan looked and lasted. Here’s what I learned along the way, and what I think you should consider when picking an exfoliator for fake tan.
Why Exfoliating Before Fake Tan Is Essential
Before applying fake tan, I always make sure to exfoliate thoroughly. It removes dead skin cells and creates an even surface, so the tan develops uniformly and lasts longer. Skipping this step once led to patchy and uneven color that faded quickly, so trust me—don’t skip exfoliating!
Types of Exfoliators I’ve Tried
There are a few types of exfoliators I’ve found useful for prepping fake tan:
- Physical Scrubs: These have gritty particles like sugar, salt, or jojoba beads. I like sugar scrubs because they’re gentle but effective. However, I avoid harsh scrubs that irritate my skin.
- Chemical Exfoliants: Products with AHAs (like glycolic or lactic acid) or BHAs gently dissolve dead skin without scrubbing. I use these when my skin feels sensitive but still needs exfoliating.
- Exfoliating Gloves or Mitts: These help me slough off dead skin more easily during my shower. They’re inexpensive and reusable, making them a great option if you prefer a physical method without product buildup.
What to Look for in an Exfoliator for Fake Tan
When I shop for an exfoliator to use before fake tanning, I focus on these features:
- Gentle but Effective: The exfoliator should remove dead skin without causing redness or irritation. My skin feels soft, not raw, after exfoliating.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Since fake tan can dry out my skin, I like exfoliators that include hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, or oils.
- Suitable for Your Skin Type: If you have sensitive skin like me, avoid harsh scrubs and opt for chemical exfoliants or gentle physical scrubs.
- Easy to Rinse Off: I prefer exfoliators that rinse cleanly so no residue interferes with the tan application.
- No Harsh Fragrances: Sometimes strong scents can irritate skin or clash with the fake tan smell, so I choose lightly scented or fragrance-free options.
How Often Should I Exfoliate?
From my experience, exfoliating 24 to 48 hours before applying fake tan works best. This timing allows my skin to be smooth and ready without being overly sensitive. I don’t exfoliate on the same day as tanning, as that can make my skin too raw for the product.
Additional Tips From My Routine
- After exfoliating, I make sure to moisturize well, focusing on dry areas like elbows and knees, which tend to absorb more tan.
- I avoid exfoliating immediately after tanning to prevent fading.
- If I’m removing old fake tan, I use a dedicated tan remover or a gentle exfoliator to lift the color without damaging my skin.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right exfoliator for fake tan was a game-changer in my tanning routine. It helped me achieve a natural, even glow that lasted longer and looked flawless. I recommend experimenting with different types based on your skin’s needs and always prioritizing gentle, hydrating formulas. Happy tanning!
Author Profile
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I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
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