Have you ever wondered why fake tan turns green???

Here at The Loft we all love a beautiful, natural-looking glow….. well, some more than others (mentioning no names!!!). So….. when we squeeze out the contents of our favourite self tanner and find it’s turned green, alarm bells start ringing. After all no one really aspires to the Shrek Princess Fiona look!

Knowing why your fake tan has turned green is the first step to ensuring you never develop that ‘radioactive look’. So here are a couple of reasons why fake tan turns green:

  1. Storage

If you don’t store your fake tan properly it can oxidise. Oxidation is the inclusion of oxygen into the product, and it’s this which will turn your fake tan green as it breaks down the DHA.

To avoid this you should store your product in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.

  1. Sell by date

Like a lot of consumer goods, your fake tan will have a natural sell by date. Once it has gone by this date there’s an increased risk that it will turn green. N.B….. This has NEVER happened to Katy as hers is always used up in more than enough time!!!

  1. Preparation

Are you noticing just your armpits or certain parts of your body turning green once tanning? If so, this is more likely to be down to how you’ve prepped for your tan rather than the fake tan itself.

Deodorants, perfumes, moisturisers and even certain makeups can react with your fake tan. Although this can look alarming, it will wash off and won’t affect the final colour.

Before fake tanning you should exfoliate the night before and thoroughly cleanse your skin on the day of the tan so it’s free of anything that might act as a barrier or react with your tan.

Avoiding a green tan

If you notice your fake tan has a green hue to it, then pleeeeaaase do not apply it!!! It really isn’t going to give you the desired effect!…… Just hop along to The Loft and let us apply some for you or grab yourself a new bottle to apply at home.

Scroll to Top