It’s here! The day you have been waiting for since you were a little girl. Your wedding day! Whether you’re a calm and composed bride or an over-enthusiastic one, there is one thing that is common in all: You want to look your best. And why shouldn’t you? It is the most important day of your life and all eyes will be on you. Out of all the things that have a fix for, there is one thing that concerns every girl, especially the brides-to-be. Yes! We’re talking about tanning. Well, no one is a fan of a pesky tan that results from over-exposure to the sun. If you’re someone with pale skin, a tan might actually look pretty great on you but more often than not, Indian skin tones are not very sun-friendly. Tanning on most Indian skin tones is patchy and causes blemishes.
Taking care of your skin especially during the time of your wedding can be daunting. But fret no more ladies, because we’re here to tell you some easy peasy tan removal methods that you can try without breaking the bank. Read on to know what we’re talking about.
What causes a tan and how harmful is it?
First things first, what really causes a tan? We all know the basics - the more time you spend in the sun, the more tanned you come out looking. Tanning is caused by the ultraviolet (UV) rays emitted by the sun. These rays penetrate deep inside your skin and trigger the formation of melanin a natural defence mechanism of your skin. Melanin is a substance that changes the colour of your skin while protecting your skin from sunburn.
So, if your skin is tanned, that means that the UV rays have already penetrated deep inside your body. This causes your skin to look dull and lifeless due to an increased production of Melanin. However, tanning, if controlled at an earlier stage, can help you to tackle these issues. So, here are a few home remedies that will definitely come in handy if you’re looking for some quick-fixes at home.
Curd and Gram Flour: This one’s one of my go-to home remedies. Mix equal proportions of curd and gram flour (besan) and apply it on your face and rest of the body evenly. Let it sit for 15-20 mins and wash it with water. Curd moisturises your skin and gram flour acts as a scrub and removes all the tan. You might have to repeat this pack once a week for a month to get the desired results.
Tomato Juice and Potato Peels: The juices present in potatoes penetrate deep into the pores of your skin and remove the tan. Tomato, on the other hand, has acidic properties that acts as a natural bleaching agent. Grate two potatoes and squeeze out the juice. Add a spoon full of tomato pulp (with the seeds) and mix well. Apply this gel-like mixture on your face and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Wash off with cold water. Repeat this once a week to get the desired results.
Papaya and Lemon: For an envious glow and radiant looking skin, we suggest you include these two superfoods not only in your diet but also in your skincare regime. Papaya and lemon are known to have properties that not only nourish your skin but also help to remove tan super easily. Mash some papaya and squeeze one full lemon in it. Apply the paste on your face and neck and let it sit for 15-20 mins. Wash your face with warm water and say hello to glowing skin.
A few products that can come in handy if you’re planning to step out in the sun:
Apart from these home remedies, if you are looking to add some products for that instant glow to your beauty stash, then here are a few herbal products that will surely help you.
1. Sun’nil Jojoba-Grapeseed Moisturising Sun Protection Lotion
Chemical-based sunblocks usually cause skin irritation in the long run. Get your hands this sun protection lotion that is not only chemical-free but also super easy on your skin. This lotion can be easily used by people who have normal to dry skin.
2. Nosun Jojoba-Wheatgerm Moisturising Sun Protection Gel
Looking for something lighter than a moisturiser? This product will be a perfect pick for you. This protects your skin and leaves it feeling supple and moisturized.
3. Steam Distilled Rose Water Facial Mist
You need to make sure you keep your skin hydrated especially during the summer season. While drinking water is a must, keeping your face hydrated with a facial mist is also beneficial. Simply spray the mist on your face twice a day and you’re good to go. You can also use this face mist with your face packs or even add them in one of your face masks made at home.
4. Liquorice Shea Lip Butter Balm
While everyone talks about face tanning, we tend to forget our lips that need sun protection too. This Shea butter lip balm will not only hydrate your lips but will also protect them from the harmful UV rays.
5. Body Luster Sandal-Turmeric Ubtan Pack
While your face needs some TLC, your body needs some lovin’ too. This ubtan pack will not only nourish your body but will also give you the perfect pre-wedding glow!
FAQs
1. What SPF level is ideal?
Ans: The higher levels of SPF means more protection from the sun. But after a certain point, the protection level shrinks. It is ideal to use a sunblock with over 15 SPF which filters almost 93% of UVB rays. Beyond SPF 30 there is a debate about its effectiveness. Products with SPF 50 filters 98% and SPF 100 filters 99%. But please note that no sunscreen gives you 100% protection.
2. Will I get a sunburn if it’s cloudy outside?
Ans: Yes! Some clouds can partially reduce the UV radiation but cannot completely block it. So, it is ideal to wear a sunblock every time you step out no matter what the weather looks like.
3. How long should I wait before getting in the water after applying sunscreen?
Ans: No sunscreen is water-resistant. You can wait for 10 minutes before stepping in the water but be sure to re-apply the sunscreen every 30-40 mins if you’re at the beach or pool
4. Do sunscreen lotions expire?
Ans: Yes! Just like every other beauty product, sunblocks have an expiry date too. Make sure you check the packaging before buying the product.
5. How do I know if I am using the right sunscreen?
Ans: It is ideal to use herbal sunblocks as opposed to chemical ones. Please note that SPF 30 and over are recommended for tropical areas.
So, dear Bridezilla, are you ready to look flawless?
You go, girl!
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