Fix tan lines with self tanner or spray tanner ( DIY and Pro Method)
Tips for DIY Touch-Ups and Pro Artist Corrections
Whether you've been gardening, enjoying beach days, or walking the neighborhood, summer fun often leaves behind one not-so-fun souvenir: uneven tan lines. You wore sunscreen, stayed in the shade, but somehow… you're two-toned.
The good news? Uneven tan lines can be corrected either at home with a self-tanner or professionally with a custom spray tan. Here's how to even out your skin tone safely and effectively using proven sunless tanning techniques.
At-Home Fix: DIY Self-Tanner for Tan Line Correction
If you're prepping for a weekend event or want to get rid of that pesky tank-top tan, here's a step-by-step guide:
What You'll Need:
- A high-quality self-tanning mousse, lotion or spray
- Cosmetic sponge or kabuki brush
- Tanning mitt
- Gentle exfoliating scrub
Step 1: Exfoliate Thoroughly
Use a sugar scrub or exfoliating mitt to remove dead skin and create an even canvas. Focus on the lighter areas, but avoid over-exfoliating the surrounding tan.
Step 2: Apply Self-Tanner to Light Areas Only
Using a kabuki brush or sponge, gently "paint" the self-tanner onto the pale areas. Blend the edges into the surrounding skin.
Tip: Choose a tanning product with a color guide so you can see exactly where you're applying it.
Step 3: Let It Develop
Wait 4–6 hours before rinsing. Don't panic if the area looks darker at first; that's the bronzer, not the final tan. After rinsing with warm water (no soap), assess your results.
Step 4: Full-Body Application (Optional)
If the lighter areas are now close in tone, you can apply self-tanner to your entire body to create a seamless glow. Start at the feet and work upward in smooth, even strokes.
Spray Tan Artists: How to Fix Uneven Tan Lines for Clients
As a professional, you may have a client walk in with visible tan lines or sunburn, which can create a contrast. Here's how to even them out in a session:
Step 1: Pre-Tan Prep
Use a professional-grade prep spray to remove sweat, lotion, and skincare residue. This ensures an even DHA reaction.
Step 2: Target the Light Areas
Choose a higher-DHA solution (relative to the full-body formula). Apply to the lighter areas using a fine mist setting or a blending brush. Dry between layers using a cool air setting or an air-only gun.
Step 3: Full Body Spray
Once the target zones are matched (or slightly darker due to bronzer), spray the full body with your standard DHA product to blend everything.
Step 4: Client Aftercare
Remind your client:
- Avoid water or sweating for 8 hours
- Rinse only with warm water (no soap)
- Moisturize lightly every day
- Follow up in 24 hours for a check-in or touch-up, if needed
Pro Tips & Things to Know
- Uneven areas may fade at a different rate than the rest of the body. This is normal due to varied pigmentation and texture.
- Use a DHA-safe bronzing makeup or body shimmer to enhance blending after a few days.
- Practice and patience are key, whether you're DIY-ing or working on clients.
🔍 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I fix tan lines overnight?
You can camouflage tan lines in one day, but the color will deepen over 6–8 hours after applying self-tanner or receiving a spray tan.
What's the best self-tanner for correcting tan lines?
Look for formulas with color guides and fast-drying, streak-free finishes. Mousse formats or fine mists work well for precision. Here are a few suggestions.
Self Tanning Products and tools
Why do lighter areas fade differently?
These zones often have less melanin or have been exfoliated more. They may develop and fade DHA color faster or unevenly.
Just Remember:
- Uneven tan lines are fixable with the proper technique and product.
- Pale areas may develop or fade differently, which is normal.
- Bronzing makeup can help perfect the look after the tan develops.
- Whether you're DIY-ing or correcting for a client, practice and prep make all the difference.
- Whether you're a client at home or a spray tan pro in the studio, this method works with practice and care.