Will it stain my palms?Updated 8 days ago

Short answer: Yes — but it’s totally preventable!

If you don’t wash your hands after applying self-tanner, the DHA (the active tanning ingredient) will react with the skin on your palms just like it does on the rest of your body. This can leave you with orange or brown stains that are hard to remove.

Why It Happens

This comes down to something called the DHA Maillard Effect — the same chemical reaction that gives your skin its glow.

• DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) is a sugar derived from plants.
• When applied to your skin, it reacts with amino acids in the outer layer (the stratum corneum) to form melanoidin pigments — the compounds that darken the skin.
• Because your palms also have amino acids (and thick skin), they’re just as reactive — if not more so.

Common Ways People Stain Their Palms

• Forgetting to wash their hands thoroughly after applying
• Touching their skin while the product is still drying
• Not using a tanning mitt or glove
• Missing spots like between the fingers or under the nails

How to Prevent It

✔️ Use a tanning mitt or disposable gloves when applying
✔️ Wash your hands thoroughly immediately after use (especially palms, knuckles, nails, and between fingers)
✔️ Avoid touching your body until the tan is dry
✔️ If applying self-tanner to hands last, use a makeup brush or cotton pad for precision — then gently wipe your palms again

What If You’ve Already Stained Your Palms?

Don’t panic — exfoliating scrubs, tan removers, lemon juice + baking soda, or even micellar water can help fade the stain. It usually lightens within a couple of days with regular hand washing.