Skincare Tips: Know How To Remove Tan From Hands And Skin

A sun-kissed glow is pleasant, but overexposure can result in tanned and damaged skin. There are, thankfully, effective ways to remove tan from your hands and skin and restore your natural tone.

Experts share tips on how to remove tan from hands and skin (Representational Image)

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Many of us are left with an undesired souvenir from our outdoor experiences when the sun-kissed days of summer give way to the comfortable embrace of autumn. While a sun-kissed glow is pleasant, overexposure to the sun can result in tanned and damaged skin. There are, thankfully, effective ways to remove tan from your hands and skin and restore your natural tone.

Home Remedies For Tan Removal:

To remove tan from your skin and hands, Here are some methods by Dr Anup Dhir, who is a Senior Consultant Cosmetic Surgeon at Apollo Hospital, Delhi and Ex-President, Indian Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons which you can use:

• Bengal gram flour: One can use home remedies like Bengal gram flour and turmeric to get rid of the tan. With Bengal gram flour and turmeric, the tan is erased.
• Papaya pulp: It can be mixed with honey and applied for tan removal
• Tomatoes and yogurt: It can be blended in a blender and applied for 20-30 minutes to the skin. Yogurt has lactic acid which can help to make skin softer.
• Cucumber juice along with lemon juice: It can be applied to skin and washed for tan removal. Even pineapple pulp can be used with honey for same effect.
• Sugar Scrub: Mix sugar with olive oil or coconut oil to create a scrub. Gently massage it onto your skin in circular motions to exfoliate dead skin cellss
• Coffee Grounds: Used coffee grounds mixed with a little water or oil can also serve as an effective scrub.
• Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent. Apply fresh lemon juice to your skin, leave it on for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse off with water. Be cautious if you have sensitive skin as lemon juice can be drying.
• Turmeric: Mix turmeric with yogurt or milk to form a paste. Apply this mixture to your skin and leave it on for about 15-20 minutes before rinsing off.
• Aloe Vera: Apply aloe vera gel directly to your skin. Aloe vera helps soothe and heal the skin and can reduce the appearance of tan.
• Oatmeal: Mix oatmeal with water to form a paste. Apply it to your skin and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes before rinsing off.
• Honey: Apply raw honey to your skin. It has natural moisturizing and antibacterial properties.
• Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 40 when you go outside. This will help prevent further tanning.
• Moisturize: Keep your skin well-moisturized. Dry skin tends to hold on to a tan longer.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is important for healthy skin.

In addition to that, Dr. Neha Khuraana who is an MD, a Board-certified Dermatologist and Founder House of Aesthetics said, "Before you try any of these home remedies for tan removal, remember to perform a patch test. It's a simple but important step to make sure your skin doesn't react badly to the ingredients. This test helps you avoid any bad surprises and can save you from potential skin problems. So, always patch test before trying a new skin remedy."

She also guided how to do it

• Take a tiny bit of the remedy and put it on a small, hidden part of your skin, like the inside of your wrist. 
• Leave it there for the recommended time, then wash it off. 
• Wait for 24 hours and check for any redness, irritation, or itching. 

If your skin stays calm, you can safely use the remedy.

"While these remedies are generally effective, they may not work for everyone. Skin types vary, and what suits one may not suit another. However, these remedies tend to be suitable for most skin types, offering a good starting point for tan-free skin. Alternatively, you can explore multiple methods for tan removal. Consult your dermatologist to know which one is the best for your skin type," she added.

Other Ways To Remove Tan From Hands And Skin:

Here are some more ways shared by Sandeep Saxena, who is the CEO of Amore Health Essentials Pvt Ltd , bbb Better Body Bombay:

• Exfoliation: Exfoliation is one of the most effective ways to get rid of tan. To lighten your tan and reveal fresher, brighter skin beneath, use a gently exfoliating scrub or a loofah to slough off dead skin cells. Concentrate on regions having tan lines, such as your hands, arms, and face. Be cautious to avoid irritating your skin, especially if it has already been sun-damaged.
• Natural Remedies: A variety of natural products might help reduce tan. For example, lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent. Apply a paste of lemon juice and honey or yogurt on the tanned areas for 15-20 minutes before rinsing. Aloe vera gel can also soothe and brighten burnt skin while aiding skin healing.
• Milk and Turmeric: A milk and turmeric mixture is a traditional tan removal cure. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and skin-lightening qualities, and milk hydrates and nourishes the skin. Make a paste of turmeric and milk, apply it to your skin, and keep it on for about 20 minutes before rinsing.
• Sunscreen: Because prevention is better than cure, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF before going outside in the sun. This will protect your skin from further harm and help retain the natural tone of your skin.

"Remember, that everyone's skin reacts differently to treatments, so finding what works best for you is crucial. While you work to remove tan from your hands and skin, make overall skin health a priority by following a proper skincare routine and protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Finally, a well-balanced skincare regimen will not only help you erase tan but will also promote healthier, more radiant skin," she further added.