5 Natural Masks to Get Rid of Summer Tan
Our skin tends to suffer at the hands of the scorching summer sun. Tanning, in this case, can be a common issue, especially for individuals who are outdoors most of the time. Though numerous commercial products can be used to eliminate tan, natural masks prove to be a better and safer option.
Here are 5 homemade masks that can be used to get rid of summer tan from your skin:
1. Turmeric and Yogurt Mask
2 teaspoons turmeric powder
1 teaspoon yogurt
1 teaspoon honey
Combine all the ingredients to create a smooth paste. Apply on the affected skin and leave on for 20-25 minutes. Wash off with warm water and moisturize. Turmeric's anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties minimize tan, while yogurt and honey calm and hydrate the skin.
2. Cucumber and Mint Mask
1 grated cucumber
1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Combine all ingredients together and apply on the problem spots. Let sit for 15-20 minutes and then wash off with cool water. The cooling properties of cucumber decrease tan, and the mint leaves and lemon juice work to lighten and even skin color.
3. Banana Oatmeal Mask
1 banana
2 tablespoons of oatmeal
1 tablespoon of honey
Mash the banana and blend with oatmeal and honey. Spread the mask on the affected areas and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse using warm water and moisturize. Banana's vitamins and potassium give the skin a nutrient boost, while oatmeal softly exfoliates and cleanses dead skin cells.
4. Papaya and Pineapple Mask
1/2 cup of papaya pulp
1/4 cup of pineapple juice
1 tablespoon of honey
Combine all the ingredients and apply to the affected areas. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes and wash with warm water. Papaya's papain enzyme breaks down dead skin cells, while pineapple juice and honey brighten and even out the skin tone.
5. Gram Flour and Rosewater Mask
2 tablespoons of gram flour
1 tablespoon of rosewater
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Combine all the ingredients together to make a smooth paste. Use it on the affected areas and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Wash off with warm water and moisturize. Gram flour absorbs excess oil and fades tan, while rosewater and lemon juice soothe and lighten the skin.
Don't forget to do a patch test when applying any new mask to be safe from any sensitivity or allergic reaction. Do also remember to moisturize the skin after washing off the mask so that your skin will not become dry and parched.