Easy ways to treat your sun tan after a tropical honeymoon

Love, laughter, and a whole lot of sunshine make for a perfect honeymoon. Gentle breeze blowing through your hair, a summery cocktail in one hand, endless views of the ocean, hours spent basking in the sun, oh the joy of vacationing! And a golden tan is the perfect reminder of your cherished memories, but you will be proud to flaunt it, but if you find yourself dealing with a tan that has overstayed its welcome, fret not.

Here are some effective tips to help you recover from the tan.

Hydration is key: Extended sun exposure can lead to dehydration, making the skin appear dull and dry. Drink plenty of water to replenish your body's moisture levels.

Moisturise regularly: Apply a soothing, hydrating moisturiser to your skin twice a day. Look for products containing aloe vera, cucumber, or chamomile, which possess calming properties.

Apply ample of sunscreen: You may think applying sunscreen on tanned skin is counterproductive, but it will protect your skin from further sun damage caused by UVA and UVB rays, as well as prevent it from tanning further. In addition to this, use other measures like hats, long-sleeved clothing, etc, when outdoors, to keep yourself safe from a tan and further skin damage.

Exfoliate gently: Use a mild exfoliating scrub or a loofah to slough off dead skin cells and promote the growth of fresh, evenly-toned skin. And instead of scrubbing your skin with kitchen ingredients like tomatoes and potatoes, use chemical exfoliants such as lactic acid or glycolic acid in lower percentages, once or twice a week. Either use them as direct acids (do not go above 15 per cent for the face and 30 per cent for the body), or as a part of skincare products like moisturisers, body lotions, or even creams. Do this only after two weeks.

Additionally, vitamin C, niacinamide, licorice, alpha arbutin, azelaic acid, kojic acid, tranexamic acid, and retinoids are some actives that are known to increase skin cell turnover, thus effectively removing the tan and giving you a healthier and brighter looking skin.

Use natural remedies: Apply a paste of yogurt and honey or freshly squeezed lemon juice to the affected areas. These natural ingredients contain properties that can lighten the skin over time.

Patience is vital: Remember that recovering from a tan takes time, and forcing the process may cause more harm than good. Be patient and consistent in your efforts.

Inputs by Dr. Manasi Shirolikar, Consultant Dermatologist and Founder of Online Consulting Brand drmanasiskin.com, and Dr. Monica Kapoor, Celebrity Cosmetologist and Director of Flawless Cosmetic Clinic & ILACAD Institute