Lighten Up Too Much Tanner

Q. I recently bought a self tanner at the grocery store and I got too much tanner on my feet and knees. Do you have a suggestion for lightening this area?

A. Self tanners are a great option to the tanning bed and outdoor sun. They are much better for your skin, but can be tricky to do yourself. If at all possible I suggest you get your sunless tanning in a salon or spa with a spray tanning professional. It will cost a little more but the results will be worth it. To help fade the over-tanned areas of your skin the best solution is exfoliation. In my experience the very best product to exfoliate with in order to lighten your skin is simple household baking soda. Make a mixture of half a cup of water to one cup of baking soda. Apply the mixture to your over tan areas and let it stay on for a few minutes, about 3 or 4. After you have allowed the mix to stay on for a short while begin to exfoliate using your fingers or a soft sponge. Move in circular motions, do not scrub hard or use too much pressure. You indicate the areas of over tan are your feet and knees. These body parts can stand a firmer scrub and a stronger amount of pressure than some other parts. If the over tan is on your face you should use very mild pressure but repeat the process washing off the baking soda between tries. This method works quite well and I think you will be surprised at the amount of tan you’ll loose. Don’t let this problem keep you from using sunless tanning as an alternative to the tanning bed or real sun. It takes practice to get the technique right. Try putting lotion or petroleum jelly on your knees, feet, and between your fingers to keep from getting too much tanning product on these areas. Be sure to wash your hands well after applying the tanning agent. You should also consider my advice and go to a spa that offers spray tanning by a professional.