Got a tan you didn’t ask for? Or maybe you went overboard at the beach and now you’re regretting it. Either way, tans fade on their own eventually, but there are ways to speed things up if you’re impatient.
1. Avoid Sunlight At All Costs
Stay indoors between 10am and 5pm when UV rays are strongest. Even cloudy days can darken your skin, so if you’re serious about fading that tan, minimize all sun exposure until it’s gone.
2. Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate
Exfoliation speeds up the natural cell turnover process, sloughing off the tanned outer layer faster. Use a body scrub or exfoliating mitt in the shower 2-3 times per week. Focus on the darkest areas but don’t scrub so hard you irritate your skin.
3. Lemon Halves
Lemon has natural bleaching properties. Cut a lemon in half and dip it in baking soda. Rub the lemon directly on tanned areas for 2-3 minutes, then leave it on for 5 minutes before rinsing. Follow up with soap and warm water. The citric acid combined with the gentle abrasiveness of baking soda helps lighten skin tone faster than just waiting it out.
