Natural Remedies To Get Rid Of The Summer Tan

Summer has just arrived but the scorching heat of the sun has already left us with tan lines that refuse to disappear. Tanning is the exposure to the sun's ultraviolent (UV) radiation which causes the darkening of skin. UV radiations cause DNA damage and oxidative stress which induce melanin production and its redistribution thus leading to darker skin colour. Exposure to UV rays can cause skin cancer, which is why applying sunscreen is crucial as it contains several ingredients that protect the skin from skin cancer and injection. It is also important to protect the skin against both UVA as well as UVB radiations. This can be accomplished by the use of a broad spectrum sunscreen SPF which offers protection against short and long wavelength UV radiations. A balanced use of both physical and chemical sunscreens in a formulation can help render this protection.

But even after applying sunscreen we still can't completely ignore tanning in the summer. Here are some natural ways you can reduce tanning-

• Lemon juice - As we are all aware lemon is a highly citrus fruit, the acid content in it acts as a skin lightening agent. You can either apply lemon directly on your tanned areas or squeeze it in water and then apply. This should be repeated 1-2 times a week over a period of 2-3 months to get the best effect.
• Honey and papaya - Papaya is rich in enzymes which help to reduce the tan and makes it more radiant. It also acts as a natural exfoliator. Whereas the honey helps to make the skin smoother and softer. Together they give your skin a healthy glow. To apply, mash the papaya and make a paste and add honey to it. Apply regularly to get best effects.
• Tomato and Yogurt - The yogurt acts as a natural soothing agent for the skin whereas the tomato which is again a citrus fruit, with its acidity helps to reduce tan and also works well for pigmentation and lightens spots. To apply take both ingredients in equal quantities and lather them on the affected areas.
• Coconut water and Sandalwood powder - Apart from its various other beneficial properties coconut water is one of the best solutions for tan removal, paired with sandalwood power with its medicinal properties has anti inflammatory properties which helps to cure sun burn . Mix the two together and apply it on the tanned areas of the body and face. Wash it after it dries.
• Milk and turmeric - The healing properties of turmeric and the exfoliating and soothing properties of milk work together to reduce sun tan and help cure sun burn. Add a pinch of turmeric to milk and apply on the affected areas.
• Oatmeal and Buttermilk - This is another effective way to reduce the tan as the buttermilk helps in smoothening of the skin and reduces the sun burn. The oatmeal works as an exfoliator. The combination of these two ingredients leaves the skin feeling radiant and soft.