• Menu
  • Skip to right header navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary navigation
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Thirsty For Tan

The website is dedicated to helping you learn more tanning.

  • Self Tanning
  • Spray Tanning
  • Sun Tanning
  • Exfoliation
  • Contact Me
  • Search
  • Self Tanning
  • Spray Tanning
  • Sun Tanning
  • Exfoliation
  • Contact Me
  • Search
  • About Me
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy

How Do You Remove Self-Tanner From Hair? (4 Easy Methods)

It’s no secret that self-tanner is the best way to achieve your dream summer glow, but there can be many complications during the process of application. Sometimes, you can find you’ve ended up with self-tanner in your hair, especially if it’s blonde, so here’s how you can remove it.

Contents

  • How does this happen?
  • How do you remove self-tanner from hair?
    • Method #1: Simple shampoo
    • Method #2: Heated olive oil
    • Method #3: Chemical hair colour removal
    • Method #4: Hot water
  • How can you avoid getting self-tanner on your hair?
  • Final thoughts

How does this happen?

As mentioned, self-tanning, while it produces brilliant results, can have a messy application process, which can result in getting self-tanner in your hair. If you have blonde hair, you are much more likely to experience this problem as the product shows up much more clearly than other hair colours.

Personally, I am a redhead, so I don’t find myself struggling with this, but it’s still useful to know.

In self-tanners, the main active ingredient is known as dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and is responsible for the sun-kissed colour you get from the bottle. This DHA reacts with the top layer of skin cells when it comes into contact with them and develops a colour.

The same can happen to the hair, as hair strands a very porous, meaning they soak up water and other liquids easily. So, you may find yourself in a situation where the self-tanner has soaked up into your hair and caused a temporary colour change.

No need to panic – there are ways to solve this.

Also read:
How To Remove Self-Tanner Streaks? (4 Methods Explained)
How to Get Rid of Self-Tanner from Hands? (A Quick Guide)
How to Take Off Self Tanner Quickly? (My Favorite Methods)

How do you remove self-tanner from hair?

There are multiple different methods when it comes to removing self-tanner from your hair, all of which are suitable for blonde hair and shouldn’t cause any damage. The best thing to do when trying to remove the self-tanner is to remain calm and patient and remember that it may take a few washes to remove.

Remember to use some common sense when trying any of these methods to ensure nothing messes with the self-tanner you have on your body, or that you don’t ruin your hair. Try to stick to one method if you can – it’s okay to try the same one a few times to completely remove the colour, just avoid piling loads of products up.

Also, try to do this after you have rinsed your body of the excess tan if possible, to prevent any water or anything else leaving streaks or drips on your skin.

Method #1: Simple shampoo

If your hair is a darker colour, or it hasn’t stained too badly, a few shampoos may do the trick. Just make sure you’re not being too rough on your hair during the process, and it’s also important that you have chosen a shampoo that works nicely with your hair type and scalp. Choosing one which has a purple toner in it may also be a good option, but you probably shouldn’t use this for every time you shampoo your hair.

So, just hop in the shower and rinse your hair like normal before lathering up some shampoo. Repeat until you are happy with the results.

On Sale - $11.54Bestseller No. 1
PURA D'OR Original Gold Label Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo (16oz) w/ Argan Oil, Nettle Extract, Saw Palmetto, Red Seaweed, 17+ DHT Herbal Actives, No Sulfates, Natural Preservatives, For Men & Women
24,763 Reviews
PURA D'OR Original Gold Label Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo (16oz) w/ Argan Oil, Nettle Extract, Saw Palmetto, Red Seaweed, 17+ DHT Herbal Actives, No Sulfates, Natural Preservatives, For Men & Women
  • PURA D'OR IS THE LEADER IN HAIR THINNING THERAPY FOR THICKER & FULLER HAIR: PURA D’OR Original Gold Label Anti Hair-Thinning Shampoo w/ Biotin and DHT Herbal Ingredients is proven & tested to reduce hair thinning. It promotes hair strength & thickness with increased volume & reducing breakage. Results may vary.*
  • IMPROVE YOUR HAIR APPEARANCE: No more bad hair days due to thinning hair and dry scalp. Our anti-hair thinning shampoo w/ Biotin and Proprietary Herbal DHT Blend is here to the rescue. Packed with essential vitamins, our exclusive formula helps hydrate the scalp reducing dryness, brittle strands, and improves hair manageability.
$28.45
Buy on Amazon Last update on 2022-05-04
On Sale - $2.00Bestseller No. 2
Dry Shampoo Volume Powder. Natural and Organic Ingredients. For Blonde and Dark Hair. Lavender Oil Scented.
8,917 Reviews
Dry Shampoo Volume Powder. Natural and Organic Ingredients. For Blonde and Dark Hair. Lavender Oil Scented.
  • Customers note that the bottle is small but lasts months. All Natural, Vegan, Cruelty-Free. Made in USA. NO talc, parabens, baking soda, or phtalates. Non aerosol. Regulate the amount of powder coming out by partially twisting the cap open.
  • Perfect for refreshing your hair during busy mornings when you don't have time to wash your hair. Also great to use after any work-outs, during camping, and while traveling. Absorbs excess oil and adds instant volume to any hair style. Choose Lavender or Grapefruit Scent
$9.99
Buy on Amazon Last update on 2022-05-04
On Sale - $3.86Bestseller No. 3
BOTANIC HEARTH Peppermint Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Set - Hair Blooming Formula with Keratin for Thinning Hair - Fights Hair Loss, Promotes Hair Growth-Sulfate Free for Men and Women - 16 fl oz x 2
BOTANIC HEARTH Peppermint Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Set - Hair Blooming Formula with Keratin for Thinning Hair - Fights Hair Loss, Promotes Hair Growth-Sulfate Free for Men and Women - 16 fl oz x 2
  • Botanic Hearth Peppermint Shampoo and Conditioner Set, made with 100% pure peppermint oil, Sulfate & Paraben Free, made in USA
  • Hair blooming formula with beneficial ingredients such as Vitamin E & H, Peppermint, Tea Tree, Argan, and Coconut Oil for visibly fuller and healthier hair
$21.09
Buy on Amazon Last update on 2022-05-04

If you click Buy on Amazon and make a purchase, I'll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Method #2: Heated olive oil

Despite how random and unbelievable this sounds, heated olive oil can, in fact, be the perfect self-tanner remover for your hair. One thing to make sure is that the oil isn’t too hot – you don’t want to scorch your hair.

Start by heating some extra virgin olive oil in whichever way you choose. Follow by using this olive oil like soap or shampoo to deeply cleanse the hair. There should be no problem with using this method as long as you wash the oil out afterward and you may even find it makes your hair softer! Just be careful and use the oil once it cools down.

Method #3: Chemical hair colour removal

Believe it or not, there are actually products on the market which are designed to remove hair dye or colour from your locks. If you have naturally-colored hair, this can be a good fix for you, but perhaps not the best idea if you have dyed your hair (it might remove the whole lot).

If you have bought a chemical hair colour remover, follow the instructions on the box, and just use it on the area which is affected if possible. It’s a good idea to use a conditioner that has a low pH afterward, as this will nourish your hair and balance out the chemicals you have used.

Bestseller No. 1
Colortrak Hair Color Remover Wipes Dispenser, Moist, Non-irritating Towelettes, Formulated with Aloe, Easily Remove Hair Color Stains from Skin, Convenient Canister, 100 Wipes
949 Reviews
Colortrak Hair Color Remover Wipes Dispenser, Moist, Non-irritating Towelettes, Formulated with Aloe, Easily Remove Hair Color Stains from Skin, Convenient Canister, 100 Wipes
  • PROFESSIONAL MOIST TOWELETTES: No one is perfect, so be prepared to quickly, easily correct any hair color stains on your client's skin. An essential for every serious stylist looking to achieve a clean, polished look, simply take a wipe and gently brush over the stained area to clear the skin and ensure a professional coloring experience.
  • NON IRRITATING EFFORTLESS REMOVAL: Remove hair color stains from skin with a quick wipe. Formulated with aloe, Colortrak hair color wipes effortlessly remove color stains while also soothing the affected area. Wipes come pre-moistened and have a fresh, pleasant scent. Snap tight lid prevents wipes from drying out.
$9.99
Buy on Amazon Last update on 2022-05-04
Bestseller No. 2
Color Oops Extra Conditioning Hair Color Remover, Pac
1,933 Reviews
Color Oops Extra Conditioning Hair Color Remover, Pac
  • Removes oxidative dye/color (will not remove color that has lightened your hair)
  • Works in 20 Minutes
$11.20
Buy on Amazon Last update on 2022-05-04
Bestseller No. 3
Colour B4. Hair Colour Remover Extra Strength
691 Reviews
Colour B4. Hair Colour Remover Extra Strength
$17.99
Buy on Amazon Last update on 2022-05-04

If you click Buy on Amazon and make a purchase, I'll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Method #4: Hot water

If you have just noticed the self-tanner in your hair and it’s still wet, the fastest and most effective method is to just use hot water. If you are choosing to do this method and you have just applied your self-tanner to your body, ask a friend or partner to help or be very careful to make sure you don’t leave any marks.

All you need to do is take the affected area of hair and run it under some warm or hot water – make sure it’s not too hot as you don’t want to scorch your hair!

How can you avoid getting self-tanner on your hair?

Even though there are ways to remove self-tanner if you do get it in your hair, prevention is always better than cure, so preventing the self-tanner getting there in the first place is even better! There are some ways you can do this, even if you have very light hair:

    1. Use a self-tanning brush: a self-tanning brush is a more precise application method, so it’s good for small areas like the hairline to give you more control. I’m currently using this one from Real Techniques and it’s great!
Real_Techniques_Application_Brush
Application Brush by Real Techniques
On Sale - $5.49
Real Techniques Makeup Brush Set with Sponge Blender for Eyeshadow, Foundation, Blush, and Concealer, Set of 5
13,685 Reviews
Real Techniques Makeup Brush Set with Sponge Blender for Eyeshadow, Foundation, Blush, and Concealer, Set of 5
  • Real Techniques Everyday Essentials 2.0 with Miracle Complexion Sponge set has you covered. Four brushes do it all: blush, bronzer, highlighter, concealer and shadows. Miracle Complexion Sponge gives you an airbrushed look and flawless application
  • Set Includes: (1) RT 400 brush, (1) RT Miracle Complexion Sponge, (1) RT 300 brush, (1) RT 402 brush, and (1) RT 200 brush
$14.50
Buy on Amazon Last update on 2022-03-24

If you click Buy on Amazon and make a purchase, I'll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

    1. Use a foundation in some places: it’s clear that, for some of us, self-tanning around the hairline is too difficult, and we’d rather avoid it altogether. If this is the case for you, avoid self-tanning areas close to the hair and just use a matching foundation instead as it will be far less messy.
On Sale - $3.03Bestseller No. 1
e.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation | Lightweight, Medium Coverage & Semi-Matte | Beige | 0.68 Fl Oz (20mL)
e.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation | Lightweight, Medium Coverage & Semi-Matte | Beige | 0.68 Fl Oz (20mL)
  • RESTORE & ILLUMINATE: e.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation is a lightweight liquid foundation that naturally blends into skin (and hydrates while you’re at it) to help improve uneven skin tone and texture. The shade Beige is light with cool pink undertones.
  • ALL-DAY WEAR: This highly blendable and buildable formula goes on smooth as silk, providing medium-to-full coverage and weightless all-day wear. Added perks: it’s oil-free and supercharged with glycerin to hydrate and soften your skin.
$2.97
Buy on Amazon Last update on 2022-05-04
On Sale - $6.00Bestseller No. 2
MagicMinerals AirBrush Foundation by Jerome Alexander – 2pc Set with Airbrush Foundation and Kabuki Brush - Spray Makeup with Anti-aging Ingredients for Smooth Radiant Skin (Medium)
4,531 Reviews
MagicMinerals AirBrush Foundation by Jerome Alexander – 2pc Set with Airbrush Foundation and Kabuki Brush - Spray Makeup with Anti-aging Ingredients for Smooth Radiant Skin (Medium)
$19.99
Buy on Amazon Last update on 2022-05-04
On Sale - $1.51Bestseller No. 3
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation Makeup, Natural Beige, 1 fl; oz; Oil-Free Foundation
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation Makeup, Natural Beige, 1 fl; oz; Oil-Free Foundation
  • Maybelline Fit Me Matte Foundation: For a natural looking medium coverage liquid foundation makeup, look no further; In 40 shades, you'll find a fit for every skin tone; Best for normal to oily skin; refines pores for a natural looking matte finish
  • A Shade That Fits Me: Maybelline Fit Me liquid foundation provides coverage for a wide array of skin tones, from Ivory to Mocha; Use as a full face foundation with buildable coverage for a flawless, natural-looking, "I woke up like this" finish
$6.48
Buy on Amazon Last update on 2022-05-04

If you click Buy on Amazon and make a purchase, I'll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

  1. Use a moisturiser or heavy cream along the hairline: this sounds very different but using a moisturizer or cream along the hairline creates a barrier where the self-tanner won’t blend into. This means it is easier to avoid the hairline, as it’s almost the same as the concept of using masking tape when painting walls.

Final thoughts

Although it can be annoying to find yourself with self-tanner in your hair, there are ways to solve this problem, and even prevent it in the future. If you have blonde hair, it’s good to be especially careful when applying self-tanner, as it’s mainly blonde hair which struggles with this. Use these techniques and you’ll be so grateful!

Previous Post: «Does Self Tanner Come Off In The Pool featured Does Self-Tanner Come Off In The Pool? (Saltwater or Chlorine?)
Next Post: What Is The Best Self-Tanner For Fair Skin? (5 Favorite Ones) What Is The Best Self-Tanner For Fair Skin featured»

Primary Sidebar

About Anastasija

Hi there! I’m Anastasija and I personally became thirsty for tan approximately 4 years ago when I decided I have had enough of showing my pale legs.

You can read more about me here.

Welcome to my website!

Recent Posts

  • Best Natural Face Scrubs (Top Recommendations)
  • What Is an Exfoliating Scrub? (My Recommendations)
  • St Ives Apricot Face Scrub (Explained)
  • Does Exfoliating Remove Tan? (Explained)
  • Best Exfoliator for Dry Skin Face (Physical and Chemical)
  • About Me
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy

Site Footer

Copyright © 2022 Thirsty For Tan by Anastasija Kajba