(Image source from: How to remove tans in summer})

Tanning is a common phenomena during the summer months. Fret not. You can get back your original skin tone with a little precaution and help from experts.

Apply sunscreen

Prevention is better than cure. So slather some sunscreen when you go outdoor during the summer months. Opt for a sunscreen that has at least SPF 25. If applied at regular intervals during the day, it can prevent tanning to some extent. And if you have already tanned, it helps skin to heal itself by preventing further sun damage.

Homemade anti-tanning treatment

Homemade anti-tan packs and scrubs are useful in removing sun tan. Natural ingredients like lime juice, tomato juice, turmeric, yogurt and honey come handy in tan removal. Use combinations like lime juice with turmeric and milk; lime juice with cucumber juice and rose water; and lime juice with honey while making tan removal packs. You can make scrubs including one of these as key ingredients – oatmeal, lime juice, gram flour, yogurt and tomato juice. Lime juice and tomato juice work have de-pigmenting properties, while honey and yogurt are great hydrating agents.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are great help in reducing pigmentation. You can either consume antioxidants in diet or in medication form. Alternatively it can be applied topically to reduce tanning and internal skin brightening.

Expert help

However, if you are suffering from severe tanning that it's advisable to treat the tan in a skin clinic. Treatments offered include microdermabrasion, superficial chemical peels and different types of lasers. These procedures remove the superficial layer of skin, revealing newer and brighter skin.

(AW: Pratima Tigga)