Summer's warm embrace beckons us outdoors, with long days spent soaking up the sun. But while those beach adventures and backyard barbecues leave us with happy memories, they can also leave their mark on our feet in the form of a stubborn tan.
Here's a guide to tackling tanned feet with natural home remedies and smart prevention tips to keep your tootsies glowing all season long.
What Is A Tan?
The Food and Drug Administration states that when our skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, it produces melanin, a pigment that gives skin its colour. This melanin acts as a natural defence mechanism, shielding deeper skin layers from sun damage.
However, an excess of melanin buildup leads to a tan. While a tan may look healthy, it's actually a sign of sun damage, and neglecting it can lead to premature ageing, wrinkles, and even increase the risk of skin cancer.
Also Read: How To Achieve Glowing, Nourished Skin: Include These Peptides In Your Skin Care Routine
Exfoliation Can Help You Reduce Sun Tan
The key to tackling a tan lies in removing the top layer of tanned skin cells. This is where exfoliation comes in:
- Remove dead skin cells: These dead cells harbour the excess melanin, making your feet appear tanned.
- Promote cell turnover: Exfoliation stimulates the production of new, healthy skin cells, revealing a brighter, more even tone.
- Enhance product absorption: By removing the dead skin layer, you allow moisturisers and other foot care products to penetrate deeper, maximising their effectiveness.
Also Read: Do You Have Eczema? Practice These Measures After Hair Removal To Protect Your Skin
Home Remedies To Remove Tanning From Feet
Gram Flour
A staple in Indian households, gram flour (besan) is a gentle yet effective exfoliant. Mix it with yoghurt to create a paste. The gram flour gently buffs away dead skin, while the yoghurt soothes and hydrates. Apply the paste generously to your feet, let it dry for 15-20 minutes, then scrub gently in circular motions before rinsing thoroughly.
Lemon For Natural Bleaching
Lemons are natural bleaching agents, making them a great choice for lightning tans. However, be mindful – lemon juice can be slightly drying.
To create a scrub, mix lemon juice with sugar for a gentle exfoliating action. Apply the mixture to your feet, leave it on for no more than 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse thoroughly. Remember to moisturise well after using lemon juice, as it can leave your skin feeling dry.
Also Read: Dealing With A Flaky Forehead? Try These DIY Face Packs To Get Rid Of Dead Skin
Oatmeal Scrub
Oatmeal is a gentle exfoliant perfect for those with sensitive skin. Cook a cup of oatmeal and let it cool slightly. Combine it with buttermilk, which contains lactic acid – a natural exfoliant and skin brightener. Massage the mixture onto your damp feet for a few minutes, focusing on tanned areas. Rinse thoroughly and enjoy the baby-soft, even-toned results.
Foot Scrub
Fill a footbath or basin with warm water and add a handful of Epsom salts, known for their muscle-relaxing properties.
Include a few drops of your favourite essential oil for a delightful aromatherapy experience. Lavender oil is a great choice for promoting relaxation, while peppermint oil can be invigorating for tired feet.
Soak your feet for 15-20 minutes, allowing the warm water and Epsom salts to soothe your muscles and soften your skin. After soaking, pat your feet dry.
With a little effort and these handy tips, you can transform your tanned feet into smooth, healthy beauties that are ready to take on the rest of the summer!