Dermatologist Tells What Sun Tan Is & And How To Get Rid Of It FAST

Dr Renita explains, 'On sun exposure for more than several minutes, signals are sent in the skin to the pigment cells to generate more pigmentation to withstand the sun. This is called persistent pigment darkening (PPD) — in highly simplified terms, this is what we would call a tan.'

The best way to protect your skin from sun damage is through the application of sunscreen, to which Dr Renita also agrees. She says, 'A sunscreen habit is very crucial to preventing tan on a daily basis. When exposed to extreme sun, use sunscreen in two layers to boost the protection. Apply the first layer, then wait for about 20 minutes and reapply another layer of sunscreen. This makes your sunscreen's protection go up significantly, in addition to being more durable.'

Additionally, she recommends taking oral antioxidants like Pycnogenol, Polypodium, or Vitamins C or E so that your body is internally equipped and is able to protect you from the sun's harmful rays. Dr Renita advises to take Pycnogenol at least two to three weeks prior to the vacation, but as always, make sure to consult your doctor before taking any medicines. Another way to prevent tanning is by wearing clothes with UPF (sun protection rating in clothing) labels to help reduce ongoing tanning from sun exposure.

Check out more sunscreen recommendations here and sunscreen stick recommendations here. 

While there is no magical way to remove tan instantly, there are some good ways to get rid of tan to a fairly good extent. Dr Renita says that the first thing to do is treat the sun-exposed area with moisturisers and calming serums containing tranexamic acid or hyaluronic acid. This reduces the impact of sunburn right after sun exposure. It's extremely important for you to step up the sun protection of affected areas to prevent the worsening of pigmentation. 

When it comes to exfoliation, Dr Renita suggests introducing an at-home lactic peel (removes dead skin cells and helps with uneven skin pigmentation), but definitely make sure to follow that up with a good moisturiser. 

Right alongside, step up your intake of antioxidants in your diet. Dr Renita says that you can incorporate sprouts, microgreens, coloured fruits and vegetables. Red cabbage and spinach are good sources of glutathione, and citrus fruits, beetroots and carrots can provide antioxidant support to reduce pigmentation in the skin.

Usually, a tan realistically takes anywhere between two to three months to improve, but it can be longer if you have tanned in, say, a dive vacation. Here, the tan lines may last longer, even up to six months.