Tan Removal Treatment: Procedure & Prevention Tips
Tan Removal Treatment: Tanning is a widespread skin concern globally. Although it is not dangerous or fatal, prolonged sun exposure without adequate protection can cause skin damage. Various tan removal treatments are available that can enhance your skin’s health while reducing tan.
Read this article until the end to understand the causes and various skin tanning treatments available, and ensure that skin condition does not worsen.
What Is Tanning?
Tanning occurs when your skin darkens due to exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, which can damage your body’s cells. In response to this damage, the melanocytes in your skin produce melanin, which darkens your skin and results in a tan.
What Causes a Sun Tan?
Sunlight contains UV rays, and prolonged exposure can damage skin cells by disrupting their function. Melanin in the skin absorbs some UV light to protect the cells, but when the exposure is excessive, the body produces even more melanin. This increased melanin darkens the skin, resulting in a tan. Dark-skinned individuals produce more melanin and therefore tan more than light-skinned individuals.
- UV rays come in three different wavelengths: UVA, UVB, and UVC.
- UVA rays are the most dangerous type as they can penetrate deeper skin layers, damage cells, and directly stimulate melanocytes to increase tanning.
- UVB rays are confined to the upper skin layers and cannot penetrate deeply. They don’t affect melanocytes directly but can cause skin burns and redness by damaging the DNA of superficial cells, which triggers the body to increase melanin production, resulting in further tanning.
- UVC rays are present in much smaller amounts but can also directly affect melanocytes and cause tanning.
Why Should You Treat Your Tanned Skin?
Sunlight exposure and tanning can lead to several serious health risks:
Sunburns
A painful result of tanning, sunburns occur when UV rays irritate and damage the upper layer of skin cells. This causes increased blood flow, making the area red and tender. Damaged cells may slough off after a few days, appearing as peeling skin. The skin then heals and returns to normal.
Skin Cancer
UV rays can alter the DNA of skin cells, increasing the risk of skin cancer. There are two types: melanoma, originating from melanocytes (melanin-producing cells), and non-melanoma, which includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, arising from keratinocytes (normal skin cells). Sun-exposed body parts are more prone to non-melanoma cancers, and increased sun exposure elevates the cancer risk.
Premature Ageing Signs
Also known as photo-ageing, this long-term effect of sun tanning results from years of unprotected sun exposure. UV rays gradually break down collagen and elastin fibers, darken, and thicken the skin, leading to wrinkles, dark spots, and leathery texture, making you look older than your actual age.
Actinic or Solar Keratoses
These are raised, scaly, dark bumps on sun-exposed areas due to prolonged sun exposure. They are dangerous because they are pre-malignant lesions that can develop into skin cancers over time.
Weak Immunity
Excessive sun exposure can weaken the immune system, leading to the reactivation of infections like herpes, reduced efficacy of vaccinations, and an increased risk of cancer.
Eye Diseases
Prolonged sun exposure can cause photokeratitis, or sunburn of the cornea, resulting in pain, burning, watering eyes, and difficulty seeing. Over time, sun exposure can also lead to cataracts, which cloud the eye lens, causing vision problems that may require surgery.
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How To Remove Sun Tan From Face And Body?
Contrary to popular belief, sun tanning is not irreversible. Sun tan removal is possible through various products, treatments, and solutions designed to reduce pigmentation. Treating tan involves exfoliating the top skin layer to remove excess melanin, providing a uniform skin tone and reducing premature aging signs.
Listed below are some of the best treatments to remove tan from your face, neck, hands, feet, and arms.
Sun Tan Removal Treatments by La Derma Skin Clinic, Kolkata
Laser Toning
Laser tan removal is an excellent procedure for both tan removal and skin rejuvenation. Dermatologists use the Q-switched Nd
laser to systematically break down excess melanin, exfoliate, and stimulate collagen renewal, resulting in bright and smooth skin. This treatment effectively removes tan, age spots, fine lines, marks, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne. It has no downtime, with only temporary redness and swelling that resolve within a few hours.
Dermatologists usually recommend 6-8 sessions for long-lasting results. The cost of laser tan removal in India ranges from Rs 5000-10000 per session, depending on the concern, skin type, number of sessions needed, clinic reputation, and technology used.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are another effective treatment for tan removal, involving the use of plant extracts to exfoliate the top layers in a controlled manner. Dermatologists and trained skin therapists clean the tanned area and apply solutions containing varying concentrations of glycolic acid, phenol, and trichloroacetic acid, customizing the ingredients and strength of the peels based on the severity of the tan. The peels penetrate and exfoliate the damaged, tanned skin layer.
Some people may experience stinging and mild burning sensations after the procedure, with a downtime of 5-7 days. Skin may appear dry during this period, but new, brighter, healthier skin regenerates afterward. Multiple sessions every few weeks over a few months are needed for significant, long-lasting results.
Microdermabrasion
This exfoliating treatment is effective in removing tan and dead skin cells. It involves using a suction device to rub against the skin. Dermatologists may use a diamond-tip handpiece to gently exfoliate the top layer or crystal microdermabrasion, where fine crystals are sprayed to remove the outer skin layers.
This painless procedure takes about an hour and may leave your skin mildly red and irritated. Multiple sessions are needed for the best results.
Photo-facial/IPL
This treatment uses intense pulsed light to reduce melanin in the skin. It typically requires more sessions than laser toning but has no downtime.
Alternative Methods to Get Rid of Sun Tan
Here are some alternative sun tan removal solutions:
Tan Removal Creams
Various sun tan removal creams and bleaches are available in the market. However, they only provide a short-term solution. Since tanning affects deeper layers of the skin, these creams work only on the surface. Dermatologists typically recommend using these in combination with other treatments.
Face Packs, Wax, and Face Wash
There are numerous cleansers and face packs that claim to remove tan. Similar to creams, their results are short-lived as they only address the top skin layers. These are superficial treatments and do not address the root cause of tanning.
How to Prevent Sun Tanning?
Here are some tips to prevent sun tan and keep your skin bright:
- Avoid Direct Sun Exposure: Try to stay indoors during peak sunlight hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm, when the sun’s rays are at their strongest. Even sunscreen may not provide adequate protection during these times. If you must go outside, seek shade and wear appropriate clothing.
- Cover Up: Wear long-sleeved clothes to minimize sun exposure. Use UV-protected sunglasses to shield your eyes and face, and wear hats or caps to protect your face.
- Use Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen daily, regardless of whether you are indoors or outdoors. Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Apply it 15-20 minutes before going out on all exposed areas, including your face and neck, and reapply every 3 hours for continuous protection.
- Protect Your Lips: Remember to use a lip balm with SPF.
- Use Cosmetics With SPF: If you use makeup regularly, opt for products that contain SPF for additional protection.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink 15-20 glasses of water daily to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.
- Keep Skin Clean: Wash your face twice daily to maintain cleanliness and remove impurities.
- Eat Foods With Antioxidants: Consume seasonal fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to improve and maintain your skin health.
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Before & After Results of Tan Removal Treatment at La Derma Skin Clinic, Kolkata
Conclusion: Tan Removal Treatment
It doesn’t matter what the current season is, or the weather conditions where you live, it is critical to apply sunscreen. Dermatologists in Kolkata at La Derma Skin Clinic advise using sunscreen even if you are indoors, as exposure to electronic devices can also damage your skin.
Seek professional dermatological care to say goodbye to sun tan today!
Why Choose La Derma Skin Clinic in Kolkata For Tan Removal Treatment?
Choosing La Derma Skin Clinic in Kolkata for tan removal treatment offers several compelling reasons:
- Experienced Dermatologists: La Derma Skin Clinic boasts a team of highly experienced and qualified dermatologists who specialize in skin care and cosmetic treatments. Their expertise ensures that patients receive safe and effective treatments tailored to their specific skin types and conditions.
- Advanced Technology: The clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and advanced treatment methods. This includes the latest laser therapies, chemical peels, and other non-invasive procedures that are proven to be effective for tan removal and skin rejuvenation.
- Customized Treatment Plans: Understanding that every individual’s skin is unique, La Derma Skin Clinic offers personalized treatment plans. The dermatologists assess the patient’s skin condition and tanning severity before recommending a customized treatment approach that ensures optimal results.
- Positive Patient Reviews: La Derma Skin Clinic has garnered positive reviews and testimonials from numerous satisfied patients. Their success stories and high patient satisfaction rates highlight the clinic’s commitment to providing excellent care and effective treatments.
- Comprehensive Skin Care Services: In addition to tan removal, La Derma Skin Clinic offers a wide range of skin care services, including acne treatment, anti-aging treatments, pigmentation removal, and more. This makes it a one-stop solution for various dermatological needs.
- Post-Treatment Care: The clinic provides thorough post-treatment care and follow-up consultations. This ensures that patients receive the necessary guidance and support for maintaining their skin health and achieving long-lasting results.
By choosing La Derma Skin Clinic in Kolkata for tan removal, patients can expect professional care, advanced treatment options, and satisfactory results in a safe and comfortable environment.
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