Skin tanning is a common concern during summer, a season characterised by its intense sunlight and high UV radiation levels. Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to the darkening of the skin, known as tanning, which occurs when the skin produces more melanin as a defense mechanism against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. While a sun-kissed glow might be desirable for some, excessive tanning can result in uneven skin tone, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin damage, including sunburns and, in severe cases, skin cancer.
Summer activities often involve extended periods outdoors, making it essential to adopt protective measures such as using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible. Additionally, natural remedies and skin care routines can help manage and reduce tanning, ensuring the skin remains healthy and radiant throughout the sunniest months of the year.
Here are some kitchen hacks that can help in removing tanning naturally suggested by Delhi-based dermatologist Ishika Rawal.
Lemon juice and honey
How to use:
- Mix equal parts of lemon juice and honey in a bowl.
- Apply the mixture to the tanned areas using a brush or your fingers.
- Leave it on for about 20 minutes.
- Rinse off with lukewarm water.
Lemon juice: Contains citric acid, which has natural bleaching properties to lighten skin. It also helps in exfoliating dead skin cells.
Honey: Acts as a natural humectant, attracting moisture to the skin. It soothes and hydrates, preventing dryness that might be caused by the acidity of lemon juice.
Yoghurt and turmeric
How to use:
- Take a tablespoon of plain yoghurt and mix it with a pinch of turmeric.
- Apply the paste evenly over the tanned areas.
- Leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
- Wash off with lukewarm water, gently massaging the skin in circular motions.
Yoghurt: Contains lactic acid, which helps lighten and brighten the skin by dissolving dead skin cells.
Turmeric: Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce pigmentation and soothe the skin.
Tomato pulp
How to use:
- Mash a ripe tomato to create a pulp.
- Apply the pulp directly to the tanned areas.
- Leave it on for about 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse off with cold water.
Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, which protects the skin from sun damage and acts as a natural sunscreen. The acids in tomatoes also help to lighten the skin and reduce tan.
Cucumber extract
How to use:
- Grate a cucumber and squeeze out the juice.
- Use a cotton ball to apply the juice to the tanned areas.
- Let it sit for 20 minutes.
- Rinse off with cold water.
Cucumber: Provides a cooling effect that soothes sunburnt skin. It is also high in water content, which helps to hydrate and reduce swelling. The natural bleaching properties help in lightening the tan.
Aloe vera gel
How to use:
- Extract fresh aloe vera gel from an aloe leaf by cutting it open and scooping out the gel.
- Apply the gel to the affected areas.
- Leave it on overnight for best results.
- Rinse it off in the morning with lukewarm water.
Aloe vera: Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera gel helps to repair skin damage and reduce tan. It also moisturises and cools the skin, promoting a more even skin tone.
Gram flour (Besan) and turmeric pack
How to use:
- Mix two tablespoons of gram flour with a pinch of turmeric.
- Add a little milk or water to form a smooth paste.
- Apply the paste to your skin and leave it on until it dries.
- Scrub it off gently with lukewarm water, using circular motions to exfoliate.
Gram flour (Besan): Acts as a natural exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and impurities. It also helps in lightening the skin tone.
Turmeric: Reduces pigmentation and has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the skin.
Potato juice
How to use:
- Grate a raw potato and extract the juice by squeezing the grated potato.
- Apply the juice to the tanned areas using a cotton ball.
- Leave it on for 20 minutes.
- Rinse off with water.
Potato: Contains catecholase, an enzyme that helps lighten skin tone and reduce tan. Potatoes also have mild bleaching properties that can help lighten dark spots and even out skin tone.
Additional tips
Sunscreen: Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when going outdoors to protect your skin from further tanning.
Protective clothing: Wear hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved clothing to shield your skin from the sun.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated and help in the natural detoxification process.
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