Summer is a fantastic time to arrange a trip to the beach, soak up the sun, and relax while sipping a cocktail. But not so much for your skin! While a light tan gives you a beautiful golden glow, long-term exposure can cause skin discolouration, black patches, and skin tanning. It normally happens when your skin is exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays regularly or for an extended time. While sunscreen might be a lifesaver on most days, you need more to get rid of a tan. However, a homemade de-tan face mask can be helpful to get rid of tan naturally and effectively. Get rid of sun tan with these best homemade de-tan face masks.

What is sun tanning?

Extended exposure to the harmful UVA and UVB radiation of the sun can lead to tanning, which can cause skin discolouration. This process darkens the skin tone, resulting in a noticeable change in complexion. The main factor in tanning is a pigment called melanin. Melanin is produced by specialised cells in the deeper layer of your epidermis (top layer of the skin), known as melanocytes. When UV rays penetrate your skin, they stimulate melanocytes to produce more melanin. With continued exposure, the skin gradually darkens, resulting in tan, as found in a study published in the Food and Drug Administration Journal.

Also Read: Sunscreen: 10 myths about sun protection debunked!

7 easy homemade de-tan face masks

Here is a complete guide on how to prepare easy and effective homemade de-tan face masks, as explained by cosmetologist and trichologist Dr Priti Mahire.

1. Turmeric, honey, and lemon face masks

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• Few drops of lemon

Method:

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• In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon turmeric powder and honey.
• Put a few drops of lemon juice in it.
• Mix all three ingredients to make a face pack.
• Apply it evenly to the affected areas.
• Leave it on for 15 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.

Also Read: Besan and turmeric make the best face pack for oily skin, says my mom

2. Orange juice, yoghurt and honey

Ingredients:

• 1 orange
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 tablespoon of yoghurt

Method:

• Peel one orange and grind a few carpels to make orange juice.
• Add 1 tablespoon each of yoghurt and honey to it.
• Mix all of the ingredients thoroughly to get a uniform paste.
• Apply it evenly using a face brush.
• Leave it for 20 minutes to dry.
• Wash it off with running water.

3. Potato and lemon face mask

Ingredients:

• 1 potato
• Few drops of lemon

Method:

• Grate one full-sized potato and drain the excess water.
• Add a few drops of lemon and mix thoroughly.
• Apply and massage it on your face.
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse with cool water and wipe dry your face.

4. Masoor dal, gram flour, and yoghurt

Ingredients:

• ½ cup of masoor dal
• 1 tablespoon of gram flour
• 1 tablespoon of yoghurt

Method:

• Put ½ cup masoor dal and 1 tablespoon of gram flour in a grinder.
• Mix thoroughly until the mixture forms a coarse powder.
• Add a teaspoon of fresh yoghurt to make a smooth paste.
• Apply it evenly on your face.
• After 20 minutes, wipe it off with cool water.

5. Papaya, honey and lemon face mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of papaya pulp
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

Method:

• Combine all of the ingredients to make a smooth paste.
• Apply the paste to your face and leave it for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse it with cool water.

Also Read: A coffee face mask can benefit every skin type! Here’s how

6. Cucumber, rose water, and lemon face mask

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of cucumber pulp
• 1 tablespoon of rosewater
• Few drops of lemon

Method:

• Combine all ingredients to make a paste.
• Apply the paste to your face and leave it for 30 minutes.
• Rinse it off with cool water.

7. Aloe vera, honey, and turmeric face mask

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons of aloe vera gel
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder

Method:

• Combine all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix until a lump-free paste form.
• Apply the paste to the face.
• Allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes.
• Wash your face with water.

Benefits of these homemade de-tan face masks

Here are some of the potential benefits of homemade de-tan face masks.

1. Gentle on skin

“These homemade face masks are typically made with simple ingredients such as yoghurt, honey, lemon, and gram flour, which are gentler on the skin than chemical-laden alternatives. This is especially good for those with sensitive skin, says the expert.

2. Moisturises the skin

Ingredients like honey and yoghurt are humectants, meaning they attract and retain moisture in the skin. Honey is high in antioxidant properties which help to fight germs and heal wounds and can also soothe and moisturise skin, as found in a 2013 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

3. Gives glowing skin

Ingredients like lemon juice and yoghurt contain lactic acid, a mild alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that can help remove dead skin cells and give radiant and smoother skin. AHAs act like a shield for our skin against harmful UVB rays, according to a study published in the Molecules Journal.

4. Rich in antioxidant properties

Certain ingredients, such as turmeric and gram flour, contain antioxidants that may help fight free radical damage and enhance overall skin health. According to a study published in the Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, curcumin has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Are there any side effects of homemade de-tan face masks?

Homemade de-tan masks are generally considered safe for most skin types. However, it is important to do a patch test before applying a new mask to the entire face. Also, it is recommended to consult your doctor before incorporating de-tan masks into your skincare routine.

Things to keep in mind!

• Patch testing: As with any new skincare product, it is crucial to do a patch test on a small area of your skin before applying a homemade mask to your entire face. This helps identify any potential allergies.
• Sun protection remains key: Even while using homemade detanning masks, consistent use of sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is essential to prevent further tanning and protect your skin from harmful UV rays.