How To Remove Tan From The Hands: 10 Easy & Effective Home Remedies

Tanned hands are a common aesthetic concern for many people. Overexposure to UV radiation from the sun, not wearing adequate sun protection on the hands, and using skin-damaging products are the main culprits behind tanned hands.

While some may not mind tanned hands, many actively look for ways to remove the tan and restore an even skin tone for aesthetic, health or texture reasons.

This comprehensive guide will cover all the details you need to safely remove stubborn suntan from your hands using easy home remedies.

What Causes Tanning of the Hands?

The primary cause of tanned hands is prolonged exposure of the skin on the hands to UV rays from sunlight. Here’s a more in-depth look at how it happens:

• The UVB rays from the sun penetrate deep into the epidermis layer of the skin where melanocytes are present. Melanocytes are cells that produce the pigment melanin which gives skin its color.
• In response to UV exposure, the melanocytes ramp up production of melanin. The extra melanin creates a protective layer that absorbs and scatters the UV rays to prevent damage to the skin cells.
• This overproduction of melanin leads to visible darkening and tanning of the skin over time. The tan develops faster and grows darker with repeated exposure to UV radiation.
• The skin on the hands is particularly susceptible to tanning as the hands are often left uncovered without adequate protection. The palms and back of hands receive direct sunlight throughout the day causing pronounced tanning.
• Simply applying sunscreen is not enough as people often miss the hands and fingers while applying it to the body. The hands also tend to wash off sunscreen so reapplication every 2-3 hours is essential.
• Skin-damaging products like bleach creams, harsh soaps, detergents and abrasive scrubbers also irritate the skin and make it more reactive leading to increased melanin synthesis.
• Certain lifestyle factors like smoking can also accelerate changes in pigmentation. Smoking impairs circulation reducing oxygen supply to the skin.

So in summary, the leading causes of tanned hands are:

• Frequent UV exposure without hand protection
• Forgetting to apply sunscreen on the hands
• Using skin-damaging products regularly
• Lifestyle factors like smoking

Why Should You Remove Tan from Your Hands?

Tanned hands may not seem like a big concern but removing the tan can provide a few benefits:

Aesthetic Reasons

• Tanned hands are considered unattractive by many as they look darker and drier compared to rest of the skin. Removing tan helps restore an even skin tone across the body.
• It contributes to a youthful appearance as smoother, tan-free hands look more vibrant and healthy. Tanned hands can add years to your look.
• Dark, pigmented hands draw attention and detract from accessories like rings, nail paint etc. Lightening the hands shifts focus to these hand enhancements.
• Photographs often capture the hands. Tanned hands may stick out as looking unaesthetic in pictures where you want your hands to look better.

Health Reasons

• Accumulated tan is a marker of UV damage. It indicates the skin has been overexposed to the sun. This can lead to accelerated photo-aging, wrinkles and skin cancer risk over time.
• Removing tanning can help regain smoother texture and increase moisture and elasticity of the skin. This promotes overall skin health.
• The skin renewal and exfoliation process while removing tan gets rid of dead skin cells. This unblocks pores, reduces acne breakouts and evens out skin tone.
• Removing tan gradually can also help limit the recurrence of stubborn melanin patches or dark spots on the hands.

Improved Texture and Complexion

• Getting rid of excess melanin helps improve skin texture. The hands feel softer, suppler and smoother after tan removal.
• It creates a more uniform complexion as opposed to obviously darker hands which stand out from the regular skin tone.
• The skin lightening effects also help tackle pigmentation issues like dark knuckles, patches, spots etc. that make the hands appear uneven.

So in summary, removing tan from the hands can help them look more aesthetically pleasing, promote skin health, and achieve better texture and complexion.

Home Remedies to Remove Tan from Hands

There are many natural ingredients easily available in your kitchen that can help remove suntan from hands. These tried and tested remedies are safe and economical options:

1. Lemon

Lemon is a natural bleaching agent. It contains citric acid which sloughs off dead cells and vitamin C which inhibits melanin production. Together, these properties lighten tanned skin.

How to use:

• Cut a lemon and rub the slice directly on the hands. Ensure the hands are clean and dry beforehand.
• Let the lemon juice sit on the hands for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with water. Don’t leave it too long as the acidity can irritate.
• Apply twice daily for a few weeks to see a noticeable difference. The exact time will vary based on individual skin tone and tan intensity.
• Those with sensitive skin can dilute the lemon juice in some water before applying or avoid putting it on any open cuts or wounds.

2. Cucumber

Cucumber has mild bleaching vitamins along with soothing and cooling properties. It provides gentle tan removal for sensitive skin.

How to use:

• Grate a cucumber to extract the pulp. You can also blend chopped cucumber pieces.
• Apply the pulp or cucumber juice all over the hands. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly with water. Pat dry the hands and apply a moisturizer.
• Use this remedy daily or every alternate day. Cucumber also acts as a natural moisturizer.

3. Orange Peel

Orange peel is packed with vitamin C that hampers melanin production and citric acid that eliminates dead cells. It tackles tan without drying out the skin.

How to use:

• Save dried orange peels from eaten oranges or leave fresh peels to dry under the sun for a few days.
• Grind the fully dried peels into a coarse powder once they are brittle.
• Mix the powder with some rose water or curd to form a grainy paste. Adjust consistency as needed.
• Apply this paste on the hands for 5-10 minutes and gently scrub in circular motions.
• Rinse thoroughly with water. Moisturize after. Use this orange peel scrub 2-3 times a week.

4. Gram flour

Gram flour or besan has excellent exfoliating properties. It absorbs excess oil and removes dead cells to reveal brighter skin.

How to use:

• Mix 2 tablespoons of gram flour with water, rose water or milk to make a thick paste.
• Apply the paste evenly on the hands. Gently rub it in using circular motions for 2-3 minutes.
• Rinse with water and pat dry. Moisturize after. Use this 2-3 times a week.
• You can also add a pinch of turmeric to the paste for extra tan removal benefits.

5. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has skin-brightening enzymes along with moisturizing properties. It reduces tan and repairs skin damage.

How to use:

• Cut open a leaf from an aloe vera plant to scoop out its gel.
• Apply a thin layer of fresh aloe gel directly on the hands.
• Let it sit for 20-30 minutes before rinsing off with water.
• For added effect, mix some lemon juice into the aloe gel before applying.
• Use the pure aloe gel daily for optimum results. Store any leftover gel in the fridge for later.

6. Papaya

Papaya fruit contains papain – an enzyme that mildly bleaches skin. It is also rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

How to use:

• Mash a ripe papaya slice to extract a thick pulp. You can also blend papaya pieces.
• Apply the pulp generously on the hands. Leave it on for 15-30 minutes.
• Rinse off thoroughly with water. Repeat this every alternate day.
• Those with latex allergy should avoid using papaya on the skin.

7. Turmeric

Turmeric has curcumin that controls melanin production. It also has antiseptic benefits that even out complexion.

How to use:

• Mix 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder with lemon juice and gram flour to make a paste.
• Apply an even layer on the hands and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
• Scrub gently while rinsing off with warm water.
• Repeat daily or every alternate day. Turmeric can stain so use caution.

8. Buttermilk

The lactic acid content in buttermilk works as a chemical exfoliant by breaking down dead cells. This removes tan and evens out tone.

How to use:

• Pour some buttermilk in a wide, shallow bowl.
• Submerge your hands in the bowl for 15-20 minutes.
• Rinse off hands with water. Pat dry and apply a moisturizer.
• Repeat this 3-4 times a week to see results. The longer you soak, the better.

9. Tomato

Tomatoes have lycopene that restricts excessive melanin formation. Plus the acids in it clear away dull cells.

How to use:

• Mash 1-2 ripe tomatoes thoroughly until you get a pulp. Strain to extract the juice.
• Apply this tomato pulp/juice generously on clean hands.
• Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before washing off with water.
• Do this treatment 2-3 times a week for ideal results.

10. Potato

Potatoes have catecholase enzymes that lighten skin. The starch in it also helps remove tan without drying.

How to use:

• Grate a raw potato. You can also cut it into slices and blend into a paste.
• Apply the grated pulp/paste on the hands. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
• Rinse with cool water and pat dry. Moisturize after.
• Use this remedy every alternate day. Store leftover potato paste in the fridge.

Tips for best results:

• Always do a patch test first to check for skin sensitivity or allergy.
• Start with lower application times and increase gradually.
• Apply SPF 30 sunscreen on hands 20 minutes before heading out in the sun.
• Exfoliate hands once a week using a scrub to remove dead skin faster.
• Drink plenty of water and eat vitamin C foods for extra tan removal benefits.
• Combine remedies like lemon-honey, turmeric-yogurt etc. for added effectiveness.
• Avoid skin damaging products like bleach creams or tanning beds.
• Use a hand cream daily to keep hands moisturized after tan removal treatments.

Preventing Tanned Hands in Future

Removing existing tan from the hands is important but ensuring they don’t tan again is equally vital. Here are some handy tips to protect your hands from tanning in future:

Wear Gloves Outdoors

Make it a habit to wear gloves when doing outdoor activities under sunlight. This provides a physical barrier against UV exposure which causes tanning.

• Wear thick gardening gloves for yard work, farming or when handling soil to cover hands fully.
• Opt for fingerless cycling gloves to prevent tanning if you need dexterity while riding bikes or motorbikes.
• Waterproof gloves like silicone or rubber gloves offer protection when washing cars, dishes etc.
• Light cotton gloves are great for casual day use like walking the dog, running errands etc.
• Look for gloves specially treated with SPF for extra UV protection when swimming or boating.

Apply Sunscreen on Hands

Make sure to apply sunscreen properly on hands before sun exposure along with the rest of your body:

• Use a broad spectrum SPF 30 (or higher) sunscreen labeled as ‘water-resistant’ for outdoor activity.
• Apply liberally on back of hands, palms, fingers, wrists and any other exposed areas.
• Reapply every 2-3 hours especially after washing hands to maintain protection.
• Choose a sunscreen specifically formulated for hands to provide enhanced UV protection plus moisturization.

Cover Hands with Clothing

When possible, drape hands fully with clothing as an alternative to sunscreen:

• Wear shirts with full sleeves rather than sleeveless or short sleeves.
• Pull sleeve cuffs over hands or wear gloves over sleeves when driving to block sun.
• Drape a scarf or fabric over hands resting on a table near windows.

Avoid Harsh Products

Refrain from using products that can damage and irritate skin:

• Avoid bleach creams or other products meant to deliberately tan/darken hands.
• Switch to a gentle cleanser and moisturizer if current products dry out your hands.
• Wear gloves during household chores to limit exposure to detergents or cleaning products.

Exfoliate Regularly

• Scrub hands gently 1-2 times per week to get rid of dead cells so newer skin can surface.
• DIY sugar/salt scrubs work well for hand exfoliation. Don’t over-exfoliate.
• Get a professional manicure every 2-3 weeks to remove tan but avoid overfiling nails.

Additional Lifestyle Tips

• Drink plenty of water and antioxidant rich drinks to flush out toxins.
• Apply antioxidant and vitamin C serums before bedtime to reverse skin damage.
• Avoid smoking which constricts blood vessels reducing oxygen flow to hands.
• Take supplements like fish oil, Vitamin E, beta carotene etc. for skin health.

Conclusion

Stubborn tanned hands can be frustrating but are treatable. Follow these home remedies diligently to see a gradual lightening effect within a few weeks. Preventive measures are equally key to stop repeat tanning in the long run.

With some consistency and patience, you can achieve visibly lighter, even-toned hands. Avoid losing motivation too quickly. Implement a holistic sun protection plan beyond just the hands to get long lasting results.

Your hands deserve the same love and care as your face. So start taking action to reverse existing tan and prevent new tan from ruining the health and appearance of your hands.