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| - Last Updated on October 10, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
There is a social media post which claims that a tan removal gel can reverse sun tan instantly. Our fact check says it’s False.
The Claim
A Facebook reel claims that a tan removal gel can instantly remove stubborn tan. It promotes the product as suitable for the Indian climate, highlighting benefits such as deep moisturisation, the use of natural ingredients like walnut and turmeric, and a non-sticky formula for daily use.
Fact Check
Can a tan removal gel really remove sun tan instantly?
Not really. Instant tan removal is largely unrealistic. While some skincare products may lighten tans temporarily, actual tanning occurs when the skin produces more melanin in response to sun exposure. This biological process cannot be reversed instantly. For effective tan removal, dermatologists often recommend gradual methods, including regular exfoliation, sun protection, and moisturisation, rather than relying on quick fixes.
We reached out to Dr Rashi Soni, Co-founder and Consulting Dermatologist, Aesthetician and Hair Transplant Surgeon, Rashi Hospital, Mumbai, for her take on instant tan removal gel. She says, “No tan removal gel can instantly remove a sun tan. Tanning occurs when the skin produces melanin in response to UV exposure, and reversing that process takes time. While certain ingredients may help lighten the skin or exfoliate dead cells, immediate results are unlikely.”
What role do walnuts and turmeric play in the effectiveness of tan removal products?
The ingredients mentioned—walnut and turmeric—do have some skincare benefits but may not work as effectively or instantly for tan removal as claimed.
- Walnut: Commonly found in scrubs, walnut shell powder can exfoliate, helping to remove dead skin cells. This process may improve the appearance of tanned skin, but its efficacy varies by individual. However, physical exfoliation can cause microtears in the skin if used too vigorously or too often, leading to irritation and sensitivity, especially for sensitive skin.
- Turmeric: Turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, plays a popular role in skincare for its potential to lighten pigmentation over time (study from 2019). A 2012 study suggests it may inhibit melanin production, but evidence isn’t strong enough to support its use for instant tan removal. Results appear gradually and require consistent application. Another study from 2011 found that turmeric protects against sun damage and improves skin hydration. However, turmeric stains skin and surfaces yellow, so it’s best to wash it off quickly to avoid staining.
In summary, while walnuts and turmeric offer some benefits for skin health and may contribute to a more even skin tone, they are not guaranteed solutions for immediate tan removal. Care should be taken with walnut shell exfoliation to avoid skin damage.
Is there evidence supporting the product’s safety?
No, the claims of “no side effects” should raise red flags. All skincare products can cause reactions, particularly in those with sensitive skin or allergies. Without detailed ingredient listings and customer feedback, it’s challenging to determine the product’s safety. It’s essential to conduct a patch test before trying a new product, especially when using natural ingredients that may cause unexpected reactions.
Be careful when selecting products to reduce sun tan or dark spots. Some may contain hidden harmful ingredients like steroids or mercury, even if they’re not mentioned on the label. Steroids can lead to breakouts, rashes, and, with prolonged use, can thin your skin or cause lasting discolouration. We came across an interesting cream—a bee venom cream for dark spot removal. However, this product lacks safety and has a high chance of causing allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Why is transparency important when choosing skincare products?
The absence of purchasing details, ingredient lists, and customer reviews suggests a lack of credibility. Genuine products generally provide clear information about their formulation and efficacy. In this case, the vague marketing claims coupled with negative comments under the video hint at potential issues with the product’s reliability. Customers should be cautious and seek trusted brands that offer comprehensive information and verifiable customer feedback along with a complete ingredients list.
Here’s a screenshot of the negative comments for the video:
What are safer alternatives for tan removal?
Yes, there are safer and more effective options. Instead of relying on unverified products, consider proven methods such as:
- Regular exfoliation: Use gentle scrubs to remove dead skin cells. However, you should avoid sun exposure right after exfoliation as it can increase the risk of sunburn, sun tanning and skin damage.
- Moisturisation: Keeping the skin hydrated helps improve overall skin health.
- Sunscreen application: Protecting the skin from further sun exposure is important to prevent more tanning. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends sunscreen use everyday for skin protection. Despite widespread advice from the medical community, some people still spread misinformation about sunscreen. For instance, claims that sunscreen is unnecessary and harmful, or that sunscreens can cause melanoma. These claims lack any scientific backing and are untrue.
We interviewed Dr Ekansh Shekhar, Dermatologist, Cosmetologist, Trichologist, and Aesthetic Medicine Consultant, Lucknow, for safe tan removal methods. He says, “Safer alternatives for tan removal include gentle exfoliation with natural ingredients like lactic acid or fruit enzymes, along with regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent further tanning. Over time, products containing vitamin C or niacinamide can help brighten the skin and even out skin tone without harsh side effects.”
THIP Media Take
The claim that a tan removal gel can instantly reverse sun tan seems like an exaggeration and is unsupported by scientific evidence. Ingredients like walnut and turmeric may provide some benefits, but they are unlikely to offer instant results. It’s essential to approach such products with caution and prioritise safety by consulting dermatologists for reliable tan removal solutions.
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