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Fix Orange Spray Tan Now: 9 Pro Tips to Save Your Glow! (2024)

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how to fix an orange spray tanThe dreaded orange glow! Don’t worry, it’s an easy fix.

If you’re wondering how to fix an orange spray tan, start by identifying the cause. Was it the wrong shade, overapplication, or poor exfoliation?

Once you know what went wrong, you can take steps to correct it.

For orange hands, try using lemon juice or baking soda to lighten the color.

For a patchy tan, exfoliate the darker areas and moisturize with an oil-free lotion.

And to prevent it from happening again, make sure to prep your skin properly and choose the right shade for your skin tone.

Ready to get your glow back on track?

Key Takeaways

  • Don’t panic! An orange spray tan is a common mishap, and there are plenty of ways to fix it. Start by identifying the cause—whether it’s the wrong shade, overapplication, or poor exfoliation—so you can take the right steps to correct it.
  • For orange hands (the telltale sign of a tanning gone wrong), try using lemon juice or baking soda to lighten the color. It’s like a magic eraser for your tan! Just be sure to moisturize afterward to keep your skin happy.
  • If you’re dealing with a patchy tan that’s more traffic cone than sun-kissed glow, focus on exfoliating the darker areas and moisturizing with an oil-free lotion. This will help even out your color and get you back to bronze goddess status.
  • Prevention is key! To avoid future orange disasters, make sure you’re prepping your skin properly before tanning and choosing the right shade for your skin tone. Remember, when it comes to self-tanner, sometimes less is more—you can always build up the color gradually.

What Causes Orange Spray Tan?

What Causes Orange Spray Tan
You’re not alone if you’ve ever had a spray tan turn out a bit more orange than you bargained for – but don’t worry, it’s an easy fix. To get started, let’s identify the common culprits behind an orange spray tan, from using the wrong shade to improper exfoliation before tanning (Source).

Using the Wrong Shade

The dreaded orange glow! Don’t worry, we’ve got this. Choosing the right tan shade is key to avoiding an orange spray tan. Here are some tips to get it right:

  • Consider your skin tone: fair, medium, or dark
  • Understand DHA concentration: higher doesn’t always mean better
  • Use a shade guide to find your perfect match
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a pro!

Overapplication of Self-Tanner

The perils of overapplication! You got a bit too enthusiastic with the self-tanner, and now you’re rocking an orange glow. Don’t worry, it’s an easy fix! To avoid this mistake, use a light hand when applying self-tanner, and blend, blend, blend! Invest in a tanning mitt to help distribute the product evenly and prevent those pesky tanning streaks.

Improper Exfoliation Before Tanning

Exfoliating is key to an even tan. If you don’t exfoliate properly before your spray tan, you might end up with an orange tint. Here’s why:

  • Dead Skin Cells: Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, creating an even canvas for your tan.
  • Build-Up: If you don’t exfoliate, dead skin cells can build up, causing the spray tan to grab onto certain areas more, resulting in an uneven, orange look.
  • Skin Prep: Always exfoliate 24 hours before your tan. Use a gentle body scrub or exfoliating mitt in circular motions. Focus on dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.

Not Using a Tanning Mitt

Not using a tanning mitt is a common mistake.

It’s a key tool for a natural-looking tan.

Your hands can absorb the tanning product, causing an uneven tan and orange hands.

This is easily avoided with a mitt, which also helps blend the product seamlessly for a streak-free finish.

No mitt? Try a latex glove or a smooth makeup sponge as an alternative.

Just be careful to avoid staining your hands!

How to Fix Orange Hands From Fake Tan

How to Fix Orange Hands From Fake Tan
You’ve got an orange glow going on, and it’s definitely not the sun-kissed look you were hoping for – don’t worry, it’s an easy fix. Let’s get your hands looking natural and radiant again with some simple tips to correct that orange fake tan.

Using Lemon Juice to Lighten the Tan

Don’t let an orange spray tan get you down! If you’re dealing with orange hands from a fake tan, try using lemon juice to lighten the color. Here’s how:

  1. Dilute the lemon juice: Mix equal parts lemon juice and water to avoid skin irritation.
  2. Apply the solution: Soak a cotton pad with the lemon juice mixture and apply it to the affected area.
  3. Wait and rinse: Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
  4. Moisturize: Follow up with a hydrating moisturizer to keep your skin healthy and happy.

Applying Baking Soda to Neutralize the Orange

Time to bring in the big guns – baking soda! Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with two tablespoons of water to create a paste. Gently apply it to your orange hands and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water and moisturize. This DIY remedy helps neutralize the orange tone, leaving you with a more natural glow.

How to Tone Down Orange Fake Tan

How to Tone Down Orange Fake Tan
You’re dealing with an orange fake tan disaster, and you need a quick fix to tone it down and get your glow back on track. Don’t worry, we’ve some expert tips to help you fade the orange and achieve a more natural-looking tan.

Using a Gradual Tanning Lotion to Fade the Tan

Time to rescue your glow! If your spray tan has turned orange, a gradual tanning lotion can be your BFF. Apply it in the morning to fade the tan quickly and evenly. Look for a lotion with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera or vitamin E. It’s a gentler alternative to self-tanners and will help you regain a natural-looking glow.

Applying a Tan-Extending Moisturizer to Maintain the Tan

To tone down an orange fake tan, try a tan-extending moisturizer with DHA. Apply it daily to maintain your glow and hydrate your skin. Look for moisturizers with 2-5% DHA for a natural-looking tan. Use it on your face and hands, too, to keep your tan even. Reapply every morning for a sun-kissed glow that lasts.

Using a Bronzer-Only Solution to Add a Natural Glow

Time to tone down that orange glow! A bronzer-only solution is your new BFF. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Exfoliate: Prep your skin with a gentle scrub to remove dead skin cells.
  2. Apply: Use a bronzer-only solution to add a natural-looking glow.
  3. Blend: Massage the solution into your skin for an even finish.

Removing Orange Stains From Skin

Removing Orange Stains From Skin
You’re dealing with the aftermath of a spray tan gone wrong, and those orange stains on your skin are a major bummer. Don’t worry, we’ve got solutions – removing orange stains from skin is definitely doable, and we’ll walk you through the best ways to fix the issue and get your glow back on track.

Using a Self-Tanner Remover to Break Down the DHA

Time to break up with that orange glow! Using a self-tanner remover can help break down the DHA and remove unwanted stains. Look for a remover that’s specifically designed for your skin type and follow the instructions carefully. Gently massage it onto the affected area and rinse thoroughly. Repeat if needed, and say goodbye to that orange hue!

Applying a Moisturizer to Hydrate the Skin

Now that you’ve removed the orange stains, it’s time to hydrate your skin. Apply a moisturizer rich in hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or coconut oil to lock in moisture. Use it twice a day, morning and night, to keep your skin supple and soft. Look for a moisturizer with SPF to protect your skin from further damage.

How to Prevent Orange Spray Tan

How to Prevent Orange Spray Tan
You’re about to get a spray tan, and you want to make sure you don’t end up looking like a traffic cone.

Preventing an orange spray tan is easier than you think, and it all starts with prepping your skin and choosing the right shade.

Preparing the Skin Before Tanning

Before tanning, prep your skin for success. Exfoliate properly to remove dead skin cells and even out your skin tone. Establish a moisturizing routine to keep your skin hydrated and supple. Here are three pro tips to help you prepare:

  1. Exfoliate wisely: Choose a gentle scrub suitable for your skin type.
  2. Moisturize regularly: Hydrate your skin to create a smooth canvas for tanning.
  3. Consider your skin type: Adjust your pre-tan skincare routine accordingly to get the best results.

Using the Right Shade of Self-Tanner

Now that you’ve prepped your skin, it’s time to choose the right shade of self-tanner.

Don’t be like Goldilocks – not too dark, not too light, but just right!

Use online shade-matching tools or consult with a pro to find your perfect match.

Shade Skin Tone Result
Light Fair Natural-looking glow
Medium Medium Sun-kissed
Dark Dark Orange disaster

Fixing a Patchy Orange Tan

Fixing a Patchy Orange Tan
Fixing a patchy orange tan can be a real challenge, but don’t worry, we’ve got some tips for you. If you’re dealing with an uneven tan, here are four simple steps to get your glow back on track:

  1. Exfoliate the darker patches: Use an exfoliating mitt to gently remove excess tan from the darker areas.
  2. Moisturize with an oil-free lotion: Apply an oil-free moisturizer to the darker patches to help blend the color.
  3. Use a self-tanner with a guide color: Apply a self-tanner with a guide color to the lighter areas to help even out the tone.
  4. Precision application: Use a makeup brush to apply self-tanner to small areas that need a touch-up, like the hands and feet.

Why Do I Look Orange After My Spray Tan?

Why Do I Look Orange After My Spray Tan
The dreaded orange glow! Don’t worry, it’s more common than you think. So, why do you look orange after your spray tan? Let’s get to the bottom of it.

Here are 4 reasons why your spray tan might’ve turned orange:

  1. Wrong Tanning Product: Using a product with too high a DHA concentration can cause an orange hue.
  2. Skin Type: If you have fair or sensitive skin, you might be more prone to an orange tan.
  3. Exfoliation: Not exfoliating properly before your spray tan can lead to an uneven, orange color.
  4. Application Technique: If the spray tan solution is applied too heavily or unevenly, it can cause an orange tone.

Don’t worry, we can help! With a few tweaks to your routine and some expert advice, you can say goodbye to that orange glow and hello to a natural-looking tan.

Orange Spray Tan Maintenance

Orange Spray Tan Maintenance
You’ve got your gorgeous glow, but now it’s time to make it last – and that’s where orange spray tan maintenance comes in. By following a few simple tips, you can keep your tan looking fresh and vibrant for days to come, and avoid that dreaded orange fade.

Using a Tan-Extending Moisturizer to Maintain the Tan

To keep your tan looking fresh, use a tan-extending moisturizer with DHA-boosted ingredients. This will help maintain the color and hydration of your skin. Look for the best tan extending moisturizers with natural ingredients and apply them daily. Benefits include a longer-lasting tan and softer skin. Simply massage it in and enjoy your sun-kissed glow!

Applying a Bronzer-Only Solution to Add a Natural Glow

You’ve got an orange spray tan, but don’t panic! To add a natural glow, try applying a bronzer-only solution. This will help to neutralize the orange tone and give you a sun-kissed look. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Use a light hand when applying the bronzer-only solution to avoid over-darkening your skin.
  • Focus on areas that are particularly orange, such as your hands and feet.
  • Blend, blend, blend! Make sure to blend the solution well to avoid any harsh lines.
  • Follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and your tan looking fresh.

Troubleshooting Orange Spray Tan

Troubleshooting Orange Spray Tan
You’ve got an orange spray tan and you’re freaking out – don’t worry, it’s an easy fix! Let’s troubleshoot the problem together and find the right solution to get your glow back on track.

Identifying the Cause of the Orange Tan

Don’t panic if your spray tan has turned orange – identifying the cause is the first step to fixing it. Check if the tanning solution type was too dark or if the DHA concentration was too high for your skin type. Also, consider if the product application was uneven or if your skin hydration levels were off.

Using the Right Products to Fix the Tan

Now that you’ve identified the cause of your orange spray tan, it’s time to fix it.

Grab a self-tanner remover to break down the DHA, and follow up with a moisturizer to hydrate your skin.

For a quick fix, try a tan-extending lotion or a gradual tanner to fade the orange tone.

A bronzer-only solution can also add a natural glow.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to get rid of the orange from a spray tan?

Don’t panic! To get rid of an orange spray tan, try using lemon juice or a mixture of baking soda and water to gently exfoliate and lighten the area. You can also dab on some vodka for a quick fix.

How to tone down orange fake tan?

Got an orange fake tan? Don’t panic! To tone it down, try applying a lemon juice and water mixture, or use a tan-correcting product with a color-correcting formula to neutralize the orange hue.

Why do I look orange after my spray tan?

You’re rocking a lovely shade of pumpkin – don’t worry, it’s an easy fix! Orange tones can happen when the spray tan solution reacts with your skin’s pH or when it’s not applied evenly.

How to fix orange hands from fake tan?

Got orange hands from fake tan? Don’t panic! Exfoliate gently with a sugar or salt scrub, then moisturize with an oil-free lotion. For tougher stains, try dabbing vodka on the area with a cotton pad.

How long does an orange spray tan typically last?

Congratulations, you’ve managed to turn yourself into a human traffic cone! On a more serious note, an orange spray tan can last anywhere from 7 to 10 days, depending on your skin type and aftercare routine.

Can I use a spray tan while having sunburned skin?

Sorry, sun-kissed friend! If you’ve got sunburned skin, it’s best to avoid spray tanning for now. Instead, focus on soothing and moisturizing your skin. Consider a bronzer-only solution or a traditional tan when you’re all healed up.

Does spray tan solution cause allergic reactions or irritation?

While rare, about 1% of people experience allergic reactions to spray tans. You’re not alone if you’re concerned! Most folks tolerate them well, but if you’ve got sensitive skin, it’s smart to do a patch test first.

Can I apply makeup after getting a spray tan?

You can apply makeup after a spray tan, but hold your horses! Wait at least 8 hours for your tan to develop fully. Once it’s set, go ahead and glam up – just be gentle to keep your bronze glow intact.

Are there any specific products to maintain a spray tan?

Don’t let your golden glow fade! You’ll want to stock up on tan-extending moisturizers, gradual tanning lotions, and sulfate-free body washes. These products will help you maintain that sun-kissed look without stepping foot on a beach!

Conclusion

Just like a painter fixing a misplaced stroke, you now have the tools to correct your orange spray tan. Remember, everyone’s had a tanning mishap – you’re not alone! With these pro tips on how to fix an orange spray tan, you can rescue your glow and prevent future disasters. Whether it’s l

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Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.