Tanning is one of the most harmful side effects of sun exposure, especially for areas of the body that are constantly exposed, such as hands, neck, and face. These areas are often the first to become tanned as your skin reacts to UV rays by producing more melanin. Many people wonder how to remove a stubborn tan from their hands, and the good news is that there are effective and easy natural remedies available. If you are prone to tanning, it’s essential to understand the causes and the best ways to treat it.
If you love to unwind and relax under the sun, you’re more likely to face this common issue. Our hands are constantly exposed to the sun, making them susceptible to tanning. While you might not want to wear covered clothes all the time, using effective natural remedies like sandalwood powder, lemon juice, tomato, and turmeric can help remove the tan and restore your skin’s natural tone. These ingredients not only help to exfoliate the skin but also brighten it, giving your hands an even skin tone. While removing a tan immediately can be challenging, using these remedies will gradually help you reduce the appearance of the tan and bring back your natural skin color.
How to Remove Tan from Hands: Pro Tips
·        Avoid exposure to the sun during peak hours, typically between 11 am and 4 pm.
·        Apply sunscreen regularly on your face, neck, and hands for protection.
·        Hydrate by drinking plenty of water and consuming cold food to keep your body cool.
·        Wash your face and hands once you are inside to soothe your skin after exposure to the hot sun.
·        Wear full-hand clothes, hats, and sunglasses for added protection while venturing outdoors.
·        Follow a healthy diet rich in fiber-rich foods like vegetables to boost your skin’s immunity and prevent it from becoming sun-damaged.
·        Wash your face two to three times a day to keep your skin clean and refreshed.
What is sun tanning?
Sun tanning occurs when your skin gets darker due to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Too much exposure triggers the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. This process is a natural response that helps protect the skin from further damage.
However, excessive exposure can lead to unwanted side effects, like skin cancer, premature ageing, and other harmful effects, as highlighted by the Journal of Primary Prevention. The darkening of skin from UV rays is the body’s way of trying to shield itself, but it also leaves tan marks. To avoid this, using sunscreen is essential. Though melanin protects, it’s crucial to take care when you’re out under the sun to prevent overexposure and maintain skin health.
What’s the Reason for Hand Tanning?
Hand tanning happens when harmful UVA rays from the sun penetrate the skin and reach the epidermis, triggering the formation of melanocytes that produce melanin, a pigment that darkens the skin. This is the body’s way of protecting itself from burning. In places with harsh weather like tropical India, exposure to the sun is common, and hands are often more prone to UV damage due to their constant exposure.
During the hot summers and even in winters in coastal regions, hands can get more tanned, especially if you’re out between 10 am and 4 pm, the peak sun hours. People with dark skin tend to produce more melanin and tan quicker, but even those with lighter skin tones are at risk if they don’t use adequate sun protection. Reflective surfaces like water or snow can amplify the sun’s effect on your hands, leaving them vulnerable to further tanning,
How to Remove Tan from Hands?
If you’re looking to remove tan from your hands naturally, there are several home remedies you can try. Start by exfoliating your skin to remove dead skin cells, which helps in lightening your tan. After exfoliating, you can apply natural ingredients like lemon juice or yogurt, which help in reducing tan and brightening the skin. For quicker results, a self-tanner or bronzer can give you an instant even skin tone by covering up tan lines. These products come in forms like lotions, sprays, or mousse, and with proper blending, you can avoid streaks or uneven patches. Make sure to moisturize your hands after using these products to keep your skin hydrated and smooth.
To avoid further sun exposure, always use sunscreen on your hands, especially when stepping out into the scorching sun. While sun protection is important for the face and neck, don’t forget to protect your hands, which are often exposed to UV rays. Using a high-coverage foundation or concealer can help you brighten and conceal the tan, ensuring a seamless finish. Don’t forget to apply a setting powder over the concealed areas to make sure the makeup stays in place throughout the day.
Here are more homemade remedies you can try to remove tan from your hands naturally.
Turmeric & Curd
A great natural remedy to remove tan from hands is using turmeric and curd. Turmeric, known for its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, helps in reducing melanin production and brightening the skin. Curd, rich in probiotics, helps improve skin tone and reduce dryness. To use this remedy, mix turmeric powder and milk to make a paste, then apply it to your tanned hands. Let it stay for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off with water. You can also mix yogurt with a pinch of turmeric and massage it onto your hands. This helps exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin and tanning. Repeat this method for a few days for noticeable results.
Lemon Juice & Honey
Lemon juice is a popular ingredient in beauty products because it acts as a natural bleaching agent that helps lighten the skin tone. The ascorbic acid in lemon helps to remove impurities and reduce sun-damaged skin. Combined with honey, a natural humectant that moisturizes and helps maintain hydration, this remedy is perfect for removing tanning from your hands. To use this, mix lemon juice with honey or sugar, then gently scrub the affected area for about 15-20 minutes. After scrubbing, rinse your hands and follow with a moisturizer to prevent the drying effect of lemon’s citric acid. This combination not only helps with brightening but also promotes a natural glow, as honey nourishes the skin while lemon fights dead skin cells.
Cucumber & Curd
One of the easiest and most effective ways to combat tanning on your hands is by using the cucumber and curd mixture. Cucumber is a well-known skincare ingredient and is especially effective at reducing pigmentation and soothing irritated skin. It contains vitamin E and antioxidants that help achieve a brighter and even-toned complexion. When you mix cucumber pulp with curd, the combination not only helps to moisturize your skin but also acts as a natural skin lightener, reducing the tanning effect.
To prepare this remedy, simply mix grated cucumber with curd and a few drops of rose water. Apply this mixture evenly to your hands and leave it for 15 minutes. Once you rinse your hands with cold water, you’ll feel the soothing effect, and with consistent use, your skin tone will gradually become more balanced. Cucumber extract also helps reduce melanin production, which is responsible for the tan. This method, enriched with natural ingredients, helps in the safe and gentle removal of tanning and promotes a healthy skin glow.
Coconut Water
Coconut Water is an excellent remedy for soothing skin and reducing suntan irritation. The lauric acid in coconut water helps calm the skin, while its vitamin C content works to lighten the skin and restore its natural balance. Simply rinse your hands with coconut water three to four times a day, making sure the hands are completely soaked. After soaking, wash them gently with a mild soap to remove any residue. This natural treatment helps your skin recover from sunburns and tan while keeping it hydrated and refreshed.
Orange & Curd
For the Orange & Curd remedy, you can use the powerful combination of orange and curd to tackle skin tan and reduce pigmentation. Vitamin C in orange acts as an effective solution for lightening the skin and brightening its tone. Curd, on the other hand, is a well-known sun tan remover and bleaching agent that helps to decrease dark spots and control oiliness. To create a natural tan removal pack, mix one teaspoon of dried orange peel with a cup of curd and add a few drops of orange juice. Apply this mixture to your hands for about 15-20 minutes and then rinse with cold water to reveal smoother, brighter skin. This simple remedy not only helps with pigmentation reduction but also nourishes the skin, leaving it refreshed.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a natural solution for treating suntans and sunburns due to its powerful antioxidants. The gel extracted from the sap of an aloe vera leaf has soothing and healing properties that can help restore your skin. To use this remedy, simply apply the fresh gel to your hands and leave it on overnight. In the morning, wash it off to reveal softer, lighter skin. The process helps your skin recover from the damage caused by sun exposure.
Tomato & Curd
A simple yet effective way to tackle tan removal is by using a mixture of tomatoes and curd. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, which acts as a natural skin-lightening agent. Not only do they help in reducing burn scars, but the tomato juice can also effectively exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells. When combined with curd, which contains lactic acid, this remedy works wonders in brightening the skin tone. The cooling agent properties of curd help soothe the skin while also nourishing it.
To create this powerful tan-fighting pack, simply blend a chopped tomato with a tablespoon of yogurt in a mixer. Apply the mixture to the affected area and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Afterward, rinse with cold water. For best results, repeat this procedure daily until you notice your skin returning to its normal skin tone.
Turmeric, Cucumber & Lemon Juice
A quick and natural way to fight tan removal is by using turmeric, cucumber, and lemon juice. Turmeric is a well-known skin-lightening agent that has been used in Indian households for years and is easily available. When combined with cucumber, known for its cooling characteristics, and lemon juice, which has anti-bleaching properties, it makes a powerful pack for removing tan. To make this remedy, simply mash a cucumber pulp, add a pinch of turmeric, and mix in some lemon juice. Apply this pulpy pack to the tanned area and leave it on for 15 minutes. Afterward, rinse with warm water to reveal brighter skin.
Sandalwood & Fresh Cream
If you’re looking for a natural way to de-tan your hands, a combination of sandalwood and fresh cream works wonders. Sandalwood is known for its anti-aging properties and is packed with antioxidants that protect the skin from free radicals and skin damage. Fresh cream acts as a great nourishing element that leaves the skin feeling cool and hydrated. To make an anti-tan mask, mix sandalwood powder with fresh cream to form a runny paste. Apply the paste to the affected area and let it sit for 20 minutes. You’ll notice that sandalwood also brightens complexion and helps lighten dark spots. After the time is up, rinse with warm water. If you want to enhance the cooling effect, add rose water to the mixture before applying. Massage the paste into your skin for 4-5 minutes before washing it off.
Pineapple & Honey
To remove tan from your hands, try using a mix of pineapple and honey. Pineapple contains the Bromelain enzyme, which helps fight free radicals and reduce inflammation caused by the sun. It’s also packed with Vitamin A and Vitamin C, both of which promote healthy skin. When combined with honey, known for its antioxidant and moisturizing properties, it creates a powerful remedy. Blend a few chopped pineapple cubes with a teaspoon of honey in a blender until you get a smooth mixture. Apply the paste to the tanned areas and leave it on for about 20 minutes before you rinse with cold water. The combination of these ingredients will help soothe your skin while reducing the tan.
Oats & Buttermilk Cream
For an effective tan removal remedy, you can use oats and buttermilk. Oats are a natural exfoliating agent, helping to remove dead skin and clean the skin’s surface. Combined with buttermilk, which contains lactic acid that softens the skin and improves its tone, this mixture can make your hands feel smooth and look brighter. To make the paste, soak teaspoons of oats in half a cup of water for about 5 minutes, then add buttermilk to it and blend in a blender until it forms a smooth paste. Gently rub the mixture on the tanned areas in a circular motion and leave it for 20 minutes. Afterward, wash it off with cold water to reveal refreshed skin.
Potato and Lemon Juice
If you’re looking for a simple and natural way to lighten your tan, try using potato and lemon juice. Potato is rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fibers, and it has natural bleaching properties that help reduce blemishes and pigmentation. Lemon juice, known for its bleaching agent properties, enhances the effectiveness of this remedy. To use, extract juice from one potato and mix it with a tablespoon of lemon juice. Apply the mixture to the affected areas and let it dry for about 30 minutes. Afterward, rinse it off with cold water and repeat this process every day for noticeable results.
Milk & Saffron
Saffron is one of the richest spices with amazing anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing skin irritation and rashes. When combined with milk, which is rich in Vitamin D, this remedy helps fade dark spots and tan. To use, take a few saffron strands and soak them thoroughly in milk. Apply the mixture to the affected area using a cotton pad and leave it on until it dries. Wash it off to reveal glowing skin.
Potato Peels
Potato peels are an excellent and natural skin brightening agent that can help with removing suntan. Rich in Vitamin C, potatoes are not just good for your diet but also work wonders for your skin. The peels are effective for removing fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles as well. To use, wash the potato thoroughly under running water, then peel it and rub the peel over your face. Keep it on for 5 minutes before washing it off with cold water. This remedy can help brighten and rejuvenate your skin.
Sandalwood, Honey, and Turmeric Powder
Sandalwood has long been a beauty aid in India, known for its natural oils that play a role in reducing skin tan. When paired with honey, an antioxidant, and turmeric, a well-known skin lightening agent, this remedy works wonders for tan removal. To make, mix 1 tablespoon of sandalwood, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder into a thick paste. Apply this mixture to the affected area and let it rest for 10 minutes or until it dries, tightening your face. Once dry, wash it off for a refreshed look.
Masoor Dal Scrub
Masoor dal is an excellent exfoliator that helps remove dead skin cells and reduces tan. Packed with vitamins, minerals like Iron, Protein, Calcium, Zinc, Magnesium, and Antioxidants, it nourishes your skin. To prepare, add a teaspoon of masoor dal into milk and grind it into a coarse paste. Gently scrub and massage this mixture onto the skin to remove dead cells and tan. After scrubbing, rinse with warm water for smooth and glowing hands.
Green Tea
Green tea is a natural remedy for sun tan due to its rich content of antioxidants that fight free radicals responsible for skin damage. To use, store green tea bags in the freezer until they’re cold. Once chilled, take a tea bag and gently massage it on the affected skin for a refreshing cooling effect. Repeat this procedure regularly, and you’ll notice a difference in how your skin looks and feels, leaving you feeling fresh and active.
Honey & Papaya
Honey is known to nourish the skin and reduce pigmentation, while papaya helps in healing the skin and providing a soft glow. To use this for tan removal, mash a few papaya cubes and mix them with a tablespoon of honey to create a smooth paste. Apply the mixture to the affected area and leave it on for about 30 minutes. This pack not only helps in tan removal but also prevents dry skin and soothes your skin for a healthier appearance. After 30 minutes, wash it off for smoother, glowing skin.
Strawberries & Milk Cream
Strawberries, known as super-foods, are rich in AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids) and vitamin C, making them a natural brightening agent for your skin. Combine rip strawberries, mashed with a fork, and mix with teaspoon of milk cream. Whisk the mixture until no lumps remain. Apply the paste to your tanned skin and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. This blend not only brightens your skin but also moisturizes it, leaving it supple and even. After 20 minutes, wash it off with cold water for fresh, glowing hands.
Sandalwood Powder & Rosewater
Sandalwood is well-known for its natural oils, which help reduce sun tan and provide a soothing cooling effect. It also works wonders for redness caused by sun exposure. Combine sandalwood powder with rose water, which is rich in Vitamin C, to create a smooth paste. Apply this mixture to the tanned area and leave it on for about half an hour. Once it dries, wash it off to reveal brighter skin. This simple remedy helps restore a glowing, even skin tone.
Multani Mitti & Aloe Vera Face Pack
A powerful combination of Multani mitti and aloe vera can effectively help with tan removal and treating blemishes caused by sun-irritated skin. Multani mitti helps unclog pores, while aloe vera soothes and heals the skin. To create the pack, mix a tablespoon of Multani mitti powder with a teaspoon of aloe vera gel, and add rose water or cold milk to form a smooth paste. Apply this mixture to the tanned area and leave it on for 20 minutes. Afterward, rinse with regular water. For best results, use this remedy once a week for a radiant skin transformation.
When to visit a skin specialist?
If you don’t see visible results from home remedies within 7 to 10 days, the damage to your skin may be more profound than these treatments can handle. In such cases, it’s time to consult a dermatologist. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to serious skin issues, including skin cancer. Even if you don’t experience sunburns, those with dark skin can still be at risk, as their skin is more susceptible to UV rays and tan. If you notice severe or persistent issues, it’s important to seek professional attention from a skin specialist.
Things to keep in mind!
Before using any home remedies to remove tan from your hands, always keep in mind that certain combinations of ingredients may be allergic to your skin type. It’s important to perform a patch test before applying any remedy to larger areas. Additionally, always consult your doctor if you have concerns or if you experience any irritation while using these treatments.
Conclusion
Tanning can affect the natural glow of your skin, but with consistent use of home remedies and proper care, you can restore its brightness. Following essential tips like staying hydrated, avoiding peak sun hours, and exfoliating your skin regularly can make a significant difference. Incorporating skin brightening ingredients such as orange peel powder, yoghurt, gram flour, turmeric powder, and sandalwood powder into your skincare routine can effectively aid in tan removal and rejuvenate your skin.
If the tan persists or if you have severe sunburns, consulting a skin specialist is recommended. Professional treatments combined with home remedies using ingredients like multani mitti, tomato juice, and lemon juice can accelerate the recovery process and ensure healthier, radiant skin.
FAQs
How to remove tan from hands immediately?
To remove tan from your hands immediately, you can exfoliate your skin and then moisturize with ingredients like aloe vera gel, tomato juice, or orange peel powder to help lighten the tan.
How to remove hand tan permanently?
For a permanent tan removal from your hands, follow a consistent skincare routine that includes regular exfoliation and using a hydrating moisturizer or body lotion to keep the skin nourished, especially during summer.
How to remove tan from hands instantly at home?
To remove tan from your hands quickly at home, use skin brightening ingredients like lemon peel powder, sandalwood powder, aloe vera gel, yoghurt, multani mitti, orange peel powder, tomato juice, turmeric, gram flour, or cucumber juice for a fast-acting solution.
