Home remedies to remove sun tan and tips to protect yourself from sun damage

Click to know how you can control damage of UV-B and the UV-A on our skin.

Sun tanning is one of the most common problems in India and places where the temperature is very high. It is when the skin colour gets darkened or tanned because of high exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sunlight. Here are ways suggested by Dr. Rasna Kapoor, Sr. Consulting Dermatologist at Kaya Skin Clinics , that you can use to protect yourself from sun damage/ tanning, even though you should know that 100% protection isn't possible:

1. Use an SPF: SPF also known Sun Protection Factor should be used every day irrespective of the weather or the time of the year. This limits the damage of UV-B and the UV-A on our skin. Using it regularly will help you in the long run. It should ideally be applied 15-20 minutes before you step out of your house and if you are to face long term exposure of sun in a day, Dr advises you to reapply it after every 3 to 4 hours to reap maximum benefits of SPF.

2. If you realise that your skin is sensitive or it gets red soon even after using an SPF, you must go for other options like using an umbrella or hat or maybe try not coming out on harsh sunny hours of the day.

But what after you develop a tan? The doctor has also shared with us a few home remedies that can help you remove the tan and get back your natural skin tone.

1. Mix besan(gram flour) with curd or milk and apply it on the tanned areas

2. Combine oat meal powder with milk and apply it on affected areas.

3. Milk contains lactic acid and therefore helps you lighten your skin.

At the clinical level, you can take various forms of treatments like chemical peels and laser lighting treatment. They assist you in de-tan faster in a shorter period. But make sure you visit a dermatologist before that.

Tip: Don't let the tan happen again and again. Start taking measures and address the problem soon. Also, understand the difference between suntan and sunburn. If you have excessive discomfort, burning and flaking one shouldn't opt for home remedies but immediately consult a doctor (Read: Scalp sunburn diagnosis, symptoms and treatment)