Summer is all about soaking in the warm sun and having a great time with friends and family. While summer brings us everything that is fun and frolic, it does come with those annoying tan lines as well. Exposure to harmful sunrays can cause tanning on the skin which can be quite difficult to get rid of sometimes. So, it is best to take precautions to prevent tanning altogether. Every season requires its customised skincare routine and summer skincare includes prevention from tanning. Besides, too much sun exposure can lead to skin ageing quickly and the harmful rays of sun are not good for your skin’s health in the long run. (Also read: Summer skincare routine: Tips to keep your skin hydrated and sweat-proof )
Effective ways to avoid tanning
Arthi Raguram, Skin and Hair Expert and Founder of Deyga Organics shared with HT Lifestyle, some effective ways to avoid tanning.
1. Apply sunblock
Sunscreen is a must-have all around the year as it protects the skin from the UVA and UVB rays of the sun. During summer, apply generous amounts of sunscreen on all exposed areas of your body such as face, neck, hands, and legs. Follow the two-finger method of applying sunscreen which ensures you are using the right amount of sunscreen on your skin. Also, carrying a sunscreen stick or spray is a great option to keep on reapplying your sunscreen after 2-3 hours. Make sure to apply sunscreen 20 minutes before you step out in the sun.
2. Use aloe vera gel
Aloe vera is a great cooling agent for the summer. It not only calms down sunburn but it also helps to reduce tanning. Keep a tub of aloe vera gel in the refrigerator and use the cold gel after a long, hot day. Slather some gel on your face, neck, hands, and parts where it is required. Keep it for 15 minutes and wipe it off with a damp cloth. Your skin will instantly feel soft and supple and with a few uses, you will your tanlines fading.
3. Exfoliation is key
{{/usCountry}}Aloe vera is a great cooling agent for the summer. It not only calms down sunburn but it also helps to reduce tanning. Keep a tub of aloe vera gel in the refrigerator and use the cold gel after a long, hot day. Slather some gel on your face, neck, hands, and parts where it is required. Keep it for 15 minutes and wipe it off with a damp cloth. Your skin will instantly feel soft and supple and with a few uses, you will your tanlines fading.
3. Exfoliation is key
{{/usCountry}}One of the primary ways to prevent tanning is to exfoliate your skin. Exfoliation ensures that your skin is rid of all the dead skin cells and the pores are unclogged. Whip up a homemade scrub using yogurt and tomato pulp and exfoliate gently on your skin twice a week. Tomato contains vitamin C and yogurt is rich in lactic acid that effectively helps to remove sun tan. You can also choose, chemical exfoliation such as AHAs and BHAs to get rid of tan. Make sure to do a patch test on your skin before using a chemical exfoliation.
4. Use a homemade face and body pack
You can simply use your kitchen ingredients and make a tan removal pack for yourself. Mix one tablespoon of yogurt with a tablespoon of gram flour, a teaspoon of sandalwood powder, and a pinch of turmeric. If you have dry skin, you can add raw milk or honey. Use this paste all over your face and body and let it dry. Rinse it off with cold water and follow it up with a lightweight lotion. All these ingredients have natural brightening properties that help to prevent and remove tan.
5. Keep yourself covered
Wear full-sleeve clothes to prevent tanning. Carry a cover-up or a kimono while you are out in the sun. Also, wearing loose, cotton clothes can be quite comforting during the scorching heat. Keep your head covered with a hat or a bandana.
So, let's not tanning snatch away all your summer fun. Incorporate these tips into your skincare routine and enjoy the summer in full swing.
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