In an ideal world, every self tan application would always result in an even and streak-free glow. As self tan enthusiasts already know, mishaps are common, especially when using self-tanners full of dyes that stain super easily (maybe you should try Naru Organics instead?) But did you know that some DIY home remedies exist to help fix them?

Whether you’re dealing with tan build up or streaky lines, you only have to look in your kitchen cupboards to find a quick and handy DIY tan eraser.

In this article, we’re going to be discussing the magic powers of baking soda. While you might typically use baking soda when making cakes or cookies, this product also works well to combat self tanning errors. Baked goods and a streak-free tan? Sign us up.

So, here’s how to remove self tanner with baking soda:

How to Use Baking Soda To Remove Self Tanner

If you’re going to use baking soda to remove self tanner, it’s important to know whether you’re spot-removing (aka, removing streaks or errors) or removing the whole tan altogether. Here’s our tips for each option:

Using baking soda to remove tanning errors or streaks:

Baking soda is best used to remove streaks and other self tan errors that result from using traditional self-tanners. To do so, simply mix some baking soda with lemon juice until it forms a paste-like consistency. Dab it onto any streaks or tanning errors using a cotton ball or washcloth, exfoliating until the tan comes off. To remove self tan that is already developed, you might need to let it sit on the skin for around an hour before removing.

Using baking soda to remove your entire tan:

We wouldn’t recommend using baking soda to remove your entire tan. It would be uncomfortable to sit for an hour wearing a lemon juice paste, it may cause irritation, and the acids in the lemon juice make your skin sensitive to the sun.

However, for areas where sunless tan might linger (elbows, knees, knuckles) baking soda can come in handy. To remove your tan entirely, first take a warm bath or warm shower and use a loofah to gently slough off any tan sitting on the top layer of the skin. If you’re going to be using baking soda on larger areas of the body, mix it with coconut oil instead to lessen the chance of irritation.

No Baking Soda? 4 Other DIY Remedies for Removing Self Tanner

If you don’t have any baking soda in your cupboard, you can still correct any self tanner errors with some other home remedies:

• Baby Oil
• Whitening Toothpaste (for small areas only!)
• Coconut Oil
• Olive oil

And what not to use?

Please do NOT use harsh chemicals (such as bleach or hydrogen peroxide) to remove self tanner.

The Importance of Exfoliating

Just like your face, body skincare is important – especially when you’re applying self tanner. To keep your tan in top condition, embrace regular exfoliating. Exfoliating will help keep your self tanner from attaching to any dry skin. For best results, exfoliate using a body scrub or an exfoliating mitt, using circular motions. Follow up with a moisturizer for optimal results and an easier self tan removal process. Simple!

Want to avoid all these self-tanner troubles in the future? We’ve got you covered.

Naru Organics streak-free nontoxic self-tanner formula was made for easy application and a gradual tan. No more stains on your clothes, hands, or weird streaks on your body. You can keep your baking soda for your baking projects instead.