How to get rid of tan lines
Tans develop when the sun’s ultraviolet rays change the pigment of the skin to produce a darker color. Removing tan lines is not easy and does not happen overnight. However, some methods can help fade a tan faster.
Without surgery, the tan usually starts to fade within a few weeks and the tan lines become less prominent until you notice them. This is because the body releases dead cells and replaces them with new cells. A tan from tanning products also fades over time as the skin renews itself.
This article examines the safe methods that people can use to remove the tan or tan at home. It also discusses methods to avoid that could cause possible skin damage, including lemon juice and skin whitening creams.
Home remedies to get rid of a tan lines
Most of the methods for getting rid of a tan, whether from a bottle, a tanning booth or the sun, come from exfoliating and skin care recommendations.
There hasn’t been much clinical research related to ways to get rid of a tan, but many popular methods are safe and have few side effects.
There are different types of skin and ways to apply the products. The best method can vary depending on a person’s skin tone, their favorite products and the methods they use.
Exfoliation
Gently exfoliating the skin will help remove pigmented dead skin cells from the outer layer of the skin. This can reduce the appearance of the tan.
The two main types of exfoliation are chemical and mechanical techniques …
- Chemical techniques involve chemicals that dissolve dead skin cells, such as alpha and beta hydroxy acids.
- Mechanical techniques use brushes or sponges to remove dead skin cells.
People with dry, sensitive skin may find that a soft cloth and chemical exfoliator works best. People with oily and oily skin may find that stronger chemicals and mechanical methods work best for them.
Regardless of your skin type, be sure to gently exfoliate. Exaggerating can make the skin red and cause acne breakouts. People with darker skin tones may find that excess exfoliation can cause dark spots on the skin.
People should be sure to hydrate their skin after exfoliation to avoid excessive dryness. Aloe-containing moisturizers are a good starting point to soften the skin.
Skin lightening products
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends some ingredients as effective skin lighteners. These may require several repeated applications to prove more effective, but they may work to fade the darker areas of the skin.
Search for products that contain the following ingredients …
- 2% hydroquinone
- Azelaic acid
- Glycolic acid
- Retinoids
- Vitamin c
- Kojic acid
Both pharmacies and online stores sell skin-lightening products. Remember to check the ingredients before purchasing.
How to get rid of self-tanning products
People can try the following methods to remove self-tanning products from the skin …
Take a shower or bath
If a tan line becomes stained or there are lines of color, a shower, a bath or even a quick rinse with soap after applying the product can help to even out the skin tone. People can use a soft, damp cloth to exfoliate the skin and remove excess product.
Sodium bicarbonate
Since the self-tanner essentially “dyes” the outermost layers of the skin, the exfoliation methods of removing these outer skin cells are some of the safest ways to reduce the appearance of a tan.
A delicate nail swab
This solution will only be suitable for callused and more difficult areas of the skin, such as hands and feet. Use a nail swab to gently polish all the tanned areas that make your hands and feet dirty or too orange.
Self-tanning removal
Pharmacies also offer products to help remove the tan. These include soaps, lotions and exfoliating gloves. People can also choose from types and brands of online self-tanning removal products.
