What Strips a Tan?

Fading Faux Tans

• It is relatively simple to go overboard with spray-on tans and tanning lotions, resulting in an orange, unnatural tan or streaks and splotches. The good news is that fading a faux tan is fairly simple. Because this type of tanning affects only the outer layers of skin rather than deep skin tissue, exfoliation is usually quite effective to lighten the tan. Using hot water to open the skin's pores, a loofah and an exfoliating body wash with a grainy texture all help to lighten a faux tan. Applying moisturizer afterward is advised.
  
  

Fading Suntans

• A tan acquired from sunshine signals skin damage to the skin and can cause unsightly tan lines. To fade a suntan in order to minimize tan lines, limit exposure to the sun and try to remain indoors as much as possible. Exfoliating and moisturizing with a lotion that promises to minimize sun damage help the skin and reduce the tan.
  
  

Keeping Tans

• People who wish to preserve their tan without adding to their skin damage may apply an aloe vera-based lotion. It soothes skin without stripping it of its tan, and it prevents the skin from peeling, which results in loss of the tan. An aloe vera supplement may be taken orally to moisturize skin from the inside out.
  
  

Preventing Tans

• According to the American Academy of Dermatology, everyone should wear sunscreen every day, regardless of whether or not they encounter direct sunlight. For best results, individuals apply sunscreen 15 to 20 minutes before they go outdoors. People should not avoid wearing sunscreen in order to get a suntan; no safe way to tan exists. Someone who feels the constant need to tan may have a tanning addiction, for which medical help is available.