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How to Remove Tan from Face? Natural Remedies and Ayurvedic Face Packs
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Published on 06/25/25
(Updated on 08/10/25)
137

How to Remove Tan from Face? Natural Remedies and Ayurvedic Face Packs

Written by
Dr. Ayush Varma
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)
Graduating with an MD in Ayurvedic Medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2008, he brings over 15 years of expertise in integrative healthcare. Specializing in complex chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and digestive health, he uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on root causes. Certified in Panchakarma Therapy and Rasayana (rejuvenation), he is known for combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern diagnostics. Actively involved in research, he has contributed to studies on Ayurveda’s role in managing diabetes, stress, and immunity. A sought-after speaker at wellness conferences, he practices at a reputable Ayurvedic wellness center, dedicated to advancing Ayurveda’s role in holistic health and preventive care.
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Got that annoying tan on face after a beach trip or just daily commuting under the sun? You’re definitely not alone. Figuring out how to remove tan from face — especially without damaging your skin — is a concern for so many of us. Whether it’s a light discoloration or a stubborn patch that just won’t fade, face tan can be frustrating. But the good news? You don’t have to spend a fortune or rely on harsh chemical treatments to get your glow back. There are simple, effective, and totally natural ways to remove tan from face right at home. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to remove face tan naturally, suggest some face tan removal at home tips, and even share some DIY tan removing face pack recipes and the best tan removal face wash picks. Let’s dive in!

What Causes Face Tan and How It Affects Skin

A tan might seem like a summer badge of honor, but when it overstays its welcome or becomes patchy and uneven — it starts to feel more like a problem. Understanding what causes tan on face is the first step toward finding a solution that actually works.

Prolonged Sun Exposure Without Protection

This one’s a no-brainer. Spending hours under the sun without using sunscreen is like sending an open invitation to UV rays to mess with your melanin. Overexposure increases melanin production, which leads to pigmentation — especially on areas like the cheeks, forehead, and nose. Even if you're inside a car or it’s cloudy, UVA rays still reach your skin. Don’t underestimate 'em.

Heat and UV-Induced Skin Pigmentation

It’s not just about light; heat also plays a role. High temperatures can trigger inflammatory responses in your skin. The result? More pigment, more tan. And if you already have sensitive or acne-prone skin, the heat + sun combo can make it even worse. Trust me, been there.

Skipping Sunscreen or Using Harsh Products

Some people still believe sunscreen is optional (yikes). Others use facial cleansers or scrubs that are too harsh, which strip away the natural barrier and make your skin more vulnerable to tanning. If you’re not using protection or treating your skin kindly, it’s going to show. Fast.

How to Remove Tan from Face Naturally

No need for lasers or bleaching creams. There are simple natural ingredients — most probably sitting in your kitchen right now — that can help fade that tan and restore your natural tone.

Ayurvedic Herbs and Ingredients

Ayurveda has been ahead of the game for centuries when it comes to skincare. Ingredients like turmeric, sandalwood, neem, and multani mitti (Fuller's earth) are not just buzzwords — they’re incredibly effective for face tan removal. These herbs calm inflammation, reduce pigmentation, and even out skin tone gently over time.

Mixing turmeric with a little milk or yogurt makes a powerful yet gentle tan removal face mask. You gotta be careful not to stain your face yellow though (pro tip: a little goes a long way).

Daily Care Routine for Tanned Skin

Creating a tan-reversal routine doesn’t have to be complicated:

  • Cleanse with a gentle, preferably herbal or tan removal face wash twice a day.

  • Exfoliate 2–3 times a week using natural scrubs like oatmeal or rice flour mixed with curd.

  • Moisturize with aloe vera gel or a lightweight face tan removal cream that contains licorice or kojic acid.

  • Protect with SPF 30+ — even when indoors!

You might miss a day (we all do), but staying consistent is key.

tan removing face pack at home

Tan Removal Face Packs You Can Make at Home

If you’re wondering how to remove tan from face naturally, DIY face packs are where it’s at. They're cheap, effective, and let’s be honest — kind of fun to make. These tan removing face pack at home ideas are made with simple ingredients but offer serious results.

1. Tomato and Honey Face Pack
Tomato contains lycopene, which helps reduce sunburn and tan. Honey soothes and hydrates.

  • Mash half a tomato and mix with a teaspoon of honey.

  • Apply on your face for 15–20 minutes and rinse.

  • Use 3 times a week.

2. Besan, Turmeric & Yogurt Pack
An Ayurvedic classic! Gram flour (besan) exfoliates, turmeric brightens, and yogurt lightens pigmentation.

  • Mix 2 tbsp besan, 1/2 tsp turmeric, and enough yogurt to form a paste.

  • Apply evenly and rinse off once dry.

  • You might feel a slight tingle — that’s normal.

3. Aloe Vera and Lemon Juice Face Mask
Aloe vera soothes sunburned skin, while lemon (used with caution!) lightens tan. Don’t use this if you have sensitive skin.

  • Mix 1 tbsp fresh aloe vera gel with a few drops of lemon juice.

  • Apply, wait 10 mins, and rinse with cool water.

  • Avoid stepping out in the sun right after.

4. Potato Juice and Rice Flour Scrub
Potato juice is surprisingly effective at bleaching dark spots, and rice flour acts as a gentle exfoliant.

  • Grate a raw potato and squeeze out the juice.

  • Add rice flour to create a grainy mix.

  • Scrub gently and leave for 10 mins before washing off.

The key with all these face packs is consistency. One-time application won’t magically remove tan from face overnight — sorry! But doing these regularly? Game changer.

best tan removal face wash

Best Tan Removal Face Wash and Cream Options

While homemade packs are great, sometimes we just want to grab a product that does the job. Choosing the best tan removal face wash or face tan removal cream can be confusing though, since so many products claim to do everything under the sun (pun intended).

Here are a few types of ingredients to look for:

  • Licorice Extract: Brightens skin tone, great for face tan removal.

  • Kojic Acid: Gently reduces melanin production.

  • Vitamin C: Antioxidant-rich and effective in lightening dark spots.

  • Niacinamide: Improves skin texture while treating uneven tone.

  • Papaya Enzymes: Natural exfoliators that fade tan slowly but surely.

Top Picks (as of now):

  • Biotique Bio Papaya Face Wash: Budget-friendly, gentle on skin.

  • WOW Skin Science Ubtan Face Wash: Includes chickpea flour, turmeric, and saffron.

  • Mamaearth Ubtan Face Mask: Known for tan removal and hydration.

  • VLCC Anti-Tan Facial Kit: For occasional pampering days.

Just a heads-up — not every product works for every skin type. Always patch-test first, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. A cream or tan removal face wash that works wonders for one person might cause breakouts for another. Yep, been there too — not fun.

Face Tan Removal at Home: Do’s and Don’ts

Let’s keep it real — not all at-home remedies are safe or effective. Some DIY hacks you see online can actually damage your skin (looking at you, baking soda and lemon overload people). Here’s what to do — and what to avoid — when attempting face tan removal at home.

Do’s:

  • Be patient and consistent. Tan fades gradually.

  • Use sunblock religiously — no skipping!

  • Hydrate and moisturize your skin daily.

  • Choose tan removing face pack at home options that suit your skin type.

Don’ts:

  • Don’t over-exfoliate. Your skin isn’t a wall that needs scrubbing.

  • Avoid applying undiluted lemon juice. It can burn and cause hyperpigmentation.

  • Skip harsh chemical products unless prescribed.

  • Don’t expect overnight miracles. Seriously, don’t.

Conclusion

By now, you hopefully feel way more confident about how to remove tan from face naturally and safely. Whether you’re team DIY or prefer tried-and-tested market products, the secret lies in consistency, patience, and not falling for gimmicks. Remember, a little tan is natural — even beautiful — but if you’re looking to restore your original skin tone, there are tons of gentle, smart options out there.

If you stick to a solid routine (and don’t forget sunscreen, seriously), you’ll start seeing improvements in a few weeks. Real skin takes real time — and that’s totally okay. Let’s not chase flawless, filter-like results. Let’s aim for healthy, happy skin that feels good to be in.

So now you know how to remove face tan, what works at home, what products to try, and what to avoid. Don’t just keep this info to yourself — share it with your friends, your mom, your cousin who always gets sunburned but “forgets” sunscreen. Everyone deserves skin that glows.

FAQs

Is it possible to remove 100% tan?

Okay, real talk? Not always. Some tan, especially if it’s been there a long time or gone deep into the dermis, may never fade completely. But with the right care, you can remove tan from face significantly and get back a more even, brighter complexion. Think of it as fading rather than erasing.

Which scrub is best for tan removal?

Natural scrubs with ingredients like oatmeal, rice flour, or coffee grounds are gentle yet effective. If you prefer ready-made options, look for scrubs with papaya enzymes, walnut shells (mild ones!), or licorice. Whatever you choose, don’t scrub like you’re sanding wood — be kind to your skin.

How many days does it take to remove tan from face?

It really depends. Mild tans might fade in 1–2 weeks with proper care. Deeper tans can take a month or more. Using the right tan removal face mask, face tan removal cream, and avoiding new sun exposure will speed up the process. But again — no magic wands here.

Final Thought 

At the end of the day, taking care of your skin should feel empowering — not stressful. Whether you’re experimenting with face tan removal at home, testing out the best tan removal face wash, or just starting to explore how to remove tan from face in a gentle, effective way, the important thing is to make it a habit.

Take your time. Enjoy the process. And hey — skin doesn’t need to be perfect to be beautiful.

Loved these tips? Share this article with someone who could use a glow-up. And if you’ve got your own DIY tricks or product recommendations, don’t be shy — drop them in the comments below or tag us on socials. Your story might just help someone else finally beat that stubborn tan on face once and for all 😉

 

This article is checked by the current qualified Dr Sujal Patil and can be considered a reliable source of information for users of the site.

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Questions from users
What are some effective ways to prevent face tan during summer months?
Penelope
46 days ago
To prevent face tan during summer, cover up! Wear a wide-brimmed hat and use a scarf if you can. Slather on a good natural sunscreen, maybe one with zinc oxide. And think about hydrating from within—more water and cooling foods like cucumber. Also, avoid being in direct sun during peak times. Hope this helps!
What ingredients should I look for in a good tan removal face wash?
Brooklyn
41 days ago
You might want to consider face washes with natural ingredients like turmeric, besan (gram flour), and yogurt, as these are known in Ayurveda for their tanning reduction properties. Also, papaya enzymes and licorice can help lighten tan. Avoid harsh chemicals, and always patch-test new products. It takes time, so be patient!
How often should I use the turmeric mask for it to be effective in removing my tan?
Dylan
36 days ago
You can use a turmeric mask about 2-3 times a week for tan removal. That should be enough to see some results without irritating your skin. Be sure to mix it with other soothing ingredients like yogurt or honey to balance it. Remember, everyone's skin is different, so just adjust as needed! 😊
What are some effective home remedies for removing a tan on the face?
Theodore
31 days ago
Some great home remedies for tan removal include applying yogurt mixed with a pinch of turmeric, or a cucumber juice and lemon mix. Both can help lighten your skin naturally. Just make sure to avoid using them too frequently, as ingredients like lemon can be harsh. Always moisturize afterwards, and enjoy the natural glow!
How can I effectively fade a deep tan on my face without damaging my skin?
Owen
26 days ago
To fade a deep tan without harming your skin, try the besan, turmeric, and yogurt paste mentioned. It exfoliates gently and helps even out skin tone. Just mix 2 tbsp besan, 1/2 tsp turmeric, and yogurt into a paste, apply, let it dry, and rinse. Consistency's key! Remember, be patient—deeper tans might need more time to fade completely. Wear sunscreen too.
How often should I use the besan, turmeric, and yogurt pack for the best results?
Christian
21 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
20 days ago
Using the besan, turmeric, and yogurt pack 2-3 times a week should be good for most people. But remember, everyone's skin acts a bit differently, so see how your skin feels after using it. Just don't overdo it, or your skin might get dry or irritated. Balance is key! Also be sure to moisturize after washing it off :)
How can I tell if my skin is becoming too sensitive to the sun and heat?
Zoey
16 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
15 days ago
Noticing if your skin's becoming too sun-sensitive? Look for signs like redness, itchiness, or peeling even after short sun exposure. If that's happnin', try using cooling oils like coconut, increase your satvic food intake. Always good to check with a dermatologist too, if things get too bad, they can offer specific advice.
How often should I apply the aloe vera and lemon juice mask for it to be effective?
Olivia
11 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
10 days ago
You can apply the aloe vera and lemon juice mask about 2-3 times a week. But, be careful with lemon – it can be harsh. Maybe do a small patch test first to see how your skin reacts. Everyone's skin is different, so adjust based on how your skin feels. Always moisturize afterwards! 😊
What are some other natural ingredients I can use for tan removal besides turmeric?
John
6 days ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
5 days ago
Oh, sure! Besides turmeric, you can try ingredients like lemon juice, it acts kinda like a natural bleach. Aloe vera is realy soothing and helps with skin repair, and then there's yogurt which is great for gentle exfoliation, 'cause of the lactic acid. All these can gently help lighten a tan. Just remember to moisturize after, and maybe avoid lemon in the sun!
How often should I use natural remedies like the besan and turmeric pack for tan removal?
Ava
1 day ago
Dr. Ayush Varma
8 hours ago
For using the besan and turmeric pack, aim for 2-3 times a week. This should give your skin enough time to absorb the benefits without causing irritation. Everybody's skin's different, tho, so if you find it too much or too little, you can adjust accordingly. And remember, be gentle and enjoy the process! 😊
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