Summers are here! With holiday vibes, beach times, and warm sunshine, this season also brings with it skincare woes – Tans! How much ever you try, tans are hard to avoid. That’s because our skin is directly exposed to sunrays that draw melanin to the surface of the skin. Melanin is the pigment that gives the skin its colour causing the bronze shade that at times can be flattering. It serves to protect the skin from sunburn. Therefore, if you stay out in the sun long enough your skin will begin to look brown.
Sun is a good source of Vitamin D but too much of anything is not good. Not even the sun. Spending too much time in the heat can lead to various skin-related problems, and heat strokes too
Skin tanning can vary from person to person, but those with have pale skin or sensitive skin tend to tan more. Even with a generous slather of powerful sunscreens, these nasty sun rays find their way into leaving our skin a tan brown.
So, if your skin has got a tan without your approval, here are some home remedies to cast it off. It’s as simple as walking into your kitchen. Seriously! Go into your kitchen and the remedies await. Come, let us walk you through it. Ready?
1. Honey + Curd
Both can easily be found in almost every home. Honey not only has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties but also contains antioxidants that work at a deep skin level to soften it and clean it gently. Curd, on the other hand, has Lactic Acid, the lightening enzyme that reduces pigmentation and brightens the skin. This combination is super effective against tanning.
How to:
• Mix Honey and Curd to make a smooth paste.
• Apply on your skin and leave it on till it is semi-dry.
• Then wash it off with cold water.
2. Honey + Lemon
Alternatively, you can use Lemon instead of Curd too. Lemon has natural bleaching properties that decrease the effect of pigmentation. It also has Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) which contains Citric Acid that helps remove the tan and other blemishes. As mentioned before, Honey is loaded with antibacterial properties that work wonderfully for this skin. Though honey is a natural moisturizer it should not be left on the skin for too long.
How to:
• Mix one spoon of Lemon Juice with one spoon of Honey
• Leave it on for 15 minutes
• Wash with water
3. Raw Milk + Turmeric
Raw Milk has tons of benefits for your skin and is no less than a magic potion. It protects skin from sun damage and is potent enough to turn around the effects of a tan. It is organic and naturally protects the skin from premature ageing. Turmeric has antiseptic and healing properties and together this combination works like a charm.
How to:
• Mix one tablespoon of Raw Milk with a pinch of Turmeric.
• Leave it on till semi-dry
• Rinse face with water.
4. Oatmeal + Buttermilk
For aeons, Buttermilk has been a part of the skincare regimen. Packed with Lactic Acid it improves skin tone and softens the complexion. Oatmeal makes for a fantastic exfoliating agent. It is tender on the skin making it ideal to remove dead skin cells especially if you have a sensitive skin type.
How to:
• Mix 2 tablespoons of Buttermilk with 1 tablespoon of Oatmeal
• Gently massage the face
• Wash off after 20 minutes
5. Cucumber Juice + Lemon Juice
Cucumbers are not only refreshing but have a soothing effect on the skin. It contains bioactive compounds that effectively help in reducing tans. Lemon is packed with Vitamin C and has a natural bleaching effect that helps in lightening the tan.
How to:
• Mix two tablespoons of Cucumber Juice and Lemon Juice
• Dip a cotton ball in it and apply to the skin
• Rinse after 15 minutes
6. Tomato Juice + Curd
Tomatoes are natural tan removers as they contain a high content of Citric Acid. This helps to reduce dark spots and pigmentation. Curd is a miraculous ingredient that is loaded with Lactic Acid that tightens pores, gives radiance and of course, acts as an anti-ageing ingredient too.
How to:
• Mix one tablespoon of Tomato Juice with one tablespoon of Curd.
• Apply generously on the skin
• Keep it on for 20 minutes and rinse with cold water
7. Coconut Milk
Coconut Milk is a super hydrating and moisturizing agent that also helps to remove tans. It contains Vitamin C and other mild acids that help to remove tans. It also enhances new cell growth to give you a brighter, more radiant skin.
How to:
• Soak a cotton ball in Coconut Milk
• Apply to the affected area
• Wash off after 20 minutes
8. Rosewater in Multani Mitti
Rose Water is an all-time favourite that is a must-have in skincare. It not only helps to maintain the skin’s pH levels but also calms inflammations. Multani Mitti or Fullers Earth has healing properties that cleanse, purify and help in soothing tans.
How to:
• Mix one tablespoon of Multani Mitti with 1/4th portion Rose water
• Make a paste and apply it to the skin
• Wash off after 20 minutes
With these simple remedies, you can stop worrying and start enjoying summer in all its glory. Go out and have fun in the sun. Remember to keep yourself hydrated, and never ever forget your sunscreen. Make the most of the season because now, it’s hello summer, goodbye suntans!
Thanks for these tips!