What  is sun tanning?

Sun tanning is the darkening of the skin  due to exposure to  harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, which can damage  cells in the body. To protect us from this damage, the melanocytes in our skin produce melanin, which also darkens the skin, known as tanning. However, Skin tanning for a long period of time can cause severe damage and alter a person's melanin production.

What causes sun tanning?

Sunlight contains ultraviolet rays, and excessive and prolonged exposure can disrupt cell function and damage skin cells. The melanin in our skin absorbs some of this UV radiation and protects our cells. However, if the skin's protection is exceeded, the body produces  more melanin. This increased melanin darkens our skin, a condition known as tanning. People with darker skin produce more melanin and therefore tan more easily than people with lighter skin.

Symptoms of tanning

Tanning may cause either temporary or permanent skin damage, including wrinkles, sagging skin, and darker skin. Here are some common symptoms of a skin tan:

• Skin darkening
• Rough and flaky skin
• Uneven skin tones
• Skin patches
• Skin peeling in severe cases

How do I get rid of tan on my face and body?

It is often believed that tan is irreversible, but that is not true. Tan is removable. There are various products, treatments and solutions to reduce  pigmentation caused by sun tan. Treatment methods for tan include exfoliating the top  layer of skin. This removes excess melanin, evening out skin tone and reducing signs of premature aging. Below are some of the best treatments to remove tan on the face, neck, hands, legs, and arms.

Tan Removal Treatment by Dermatologist  

Laser Toning:

Laser tan removal treatment is an excellent procedure for tan removal and skin rejuvenation. Experts use a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser that systematically breaks down excess melanin, exfoliates, and stimulates collagen regeneration to leave skin radiant and smooth. This treatment can remove tan lines, age spots, fine lines, blemishes, as well as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by acne. There is no downtime with this treatment  as the only visible symptoms after the procedure are temporary redness and swelling, which subside within a few hours.  Dermatologists usually recommend 6-8 sessions for long-lasting results. The cost of laser tan spot removal in India ranges from INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 per session, depending on your concerns, skin type,  number of sessions required, reputation of the clinic, and the technology used.

Chemical Peels:

This is another effective tanning treatment that uses botanical extracts to remove the top layer of dead skin in a controlled manner. Under the supervision of a dermatologist, a trained skin therapist cleanses the tanned area and applies a solution containing  glycolic acid, phenol, and trichloroacetic acid in various concentrations. The composition and  strength of the peels are adjusted depending on the degree of tanning desired. The peels penetrate the skin and exfoliate the damaged, tanned skin layers.

Many people may experience a tingling or mild burning sensation after the treatment and may need to take a break for 5-7 days. During this time, your skin may appear dry, but new, brighter, healthier skin will be regenerated afterwards.

Multiple sessions every few weeks over several months are required to see noticeable, long-lasting results.

Microdermabrasion:  

This is also an exfoliating treatment that effectively removes sun damage and dead skin cells. The skin is scraped with a suction device. This treatment can be performed in a variety of ways. Dermatologists use a diamond-tipped handpiece to gently exfoliate the top layer of skin. They can also use crystal microdermabrasion, which gently sprays microscopic crystals to remove the outer layer of  skin.  It is a painless treatment that takes about an hour, but may cause slight redness and irritation of the skin. Multiple sessions are required for optimal results.

Photofacial/IPL:

This uses intense pulsed light to remove melanin from the skin. Typically requires more sessions than laser toning treatments. There is no downtime.

Benefits of photofacial treatment

With so many positive effects on the skin, it's no wonder that photofacials are so well-liked as a method of skincare. Here are some additional benefits of a photofacial treatment:

• It is a non-invasive, advanced, and quick procedure.
• It stimulates fibroblasts and encourages the production of collagen, which gives skin a more youthful appearance.
• Wrinkles and fine lines react well to collagen boost.
• Age spots and damaged capillaries are also improved.
• Acne and rosacea both show a reduction.
• A red complexion that has blotches can be transformed into clean, bright skin.

Skin brightening process: Explained

IPL procedures are often offered in an outpatient clinic environment, like many laser procedures. The treated region of the skin is heated to kill off the undesirable cells with infrared light therapy for pigmentation. A high wavelength of pulsing light is applied softly to the skin through a chilled applicator. The wavelengths are adjusted and optimised depending on the patient's skin type. The laser treatment for tan removal cost in India is very economical. However, the underlying ailment and intended goal will determine the recommended sessions.

Cost of laser tan removal in India

The cost of advanced tan removal treatment in India ranges from 4,000 INR  to 10,000 INR. These vary depending on the size of the area to be treated, the intensity of the tan, the  location and reputation of the clinic, the experience of the doctor, the treatment options, and the techniques used.

Reputed salons offer tan treatments using a variety of face packs. The rates range from INR 1,000 to INR 2,500 for the face and INR 700 to INR 1,500 for  underarms and legs.

Over-the-counter tan removal creams and lotions cost anywhere between INR 100 to INR 2,000, depending on the ingredients and brand.

Here is a cost comparison of tan removal treatments in India, which includes the cost per session and the estimated total cost of the treatment to help you  make an informed decision.

Laser Toning

Cost per session is 5,000 – 15,000

Total Procedure cost is 20,000 – 90,000

‍

‍Chemical Peel

Cost per session - 2,000 – 8,000

Total Treatment cost - 8,000 – 48,000

‍

‍Microdermabrasion‍

Cost Per session - 2,000 – 5,000

Total Treatment Cost - 8,000 – 30,000

‍

‍Photo-facial/IPL

Cost Per Session - 4,000 – 10,000

Total Treatment Cost - 16,000 – 60,000

How long does it take for the tan to fade?

The duration of your tan removal treatment depends on the type of treatment and the area being treated.

Chemical Peels: After a chemical peel treatment,  you will usually notice a visible reduction in your skin tan after one or two sessions. Dermatologists typically use chemical peels to remove facial tan  and may recommend four to six sessions to see  results.

Laser Toning: After a laser toning treatment, you will immediately notice  a visible reduction in your tan. Depending on the area of ​​your body, 4-6 sessions may be required.

Microdermabrasion: It may take 4-6  microdermabrasion treatments to achieve visible tanning reduction.

How can you prevent sunburn?

Here are some tips to prevent sunburn and keep your skin glowing:

Stay out of the sun:

Avoid going out during  peak sun hours, usually between 10am and 4pm. This is when the sun's rays are strongest and  sunscreen doesn't offer enough protection. If you must go outside, find a shady spot and dress appropriately.

Cover yourself:

Wear long sleeves when you go outside to reduce sunburn. Wear UV-blocking sunglasses to cover your eyes and face, and a hat or cap to protect your face.

Use sunscreen:

Apply sunscreen every day, indoors and outdoors. Use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen to all exposed parts of your body, including your face and neck, 15-20 minutes before going outside, and reapply every 3 hours for continued protection.

Protect your lips:

Don't forget to use a lip balm with SPF.  Use cosmetics with SPF:

If you wear makeup regularly, look for products that contain SPF for added protection.

Ensure adequate hydration.

Drink 15-20 glasses of water daily to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

Keep your skin clean.

Wash your face  twice a day to keep it clean.

Eat foods that contain antioxidants:

Eat seasonal fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to improve and maintain  skin health.

Takeaway

One must do proper research before opting for a tan removal treatment. Be sure to consult expert dermatologists and go to a reputed and trusted clinic. Although a photofacial or tan removal treatment may appear harmless, it should only be performed by a trained professional. Before deciding to receive a photofacial treatment, individuals can consult a dermatologist about whether it is safe for their skin type.

At UnCover we have highly skilled skincare doctors and 10,000+ plus happy clients. Get spotless skin quickly and join the 10k-plus happy customer community.