What Is Skin Tan? Causes, Effects, and How to Treat Tanned Skin

August 5, 2025

Dr. Shraddha Pitalia

3 min read

228

What is skin tan?

Living in a metropolitan city like Bangalore and escaping from the UV rays is highly impossible. While driving to work, taking a walk or exercising, running casual shopping, or engaging in leisure activities, UV exposure is constant. Bangaloreans love their vibrant, active lifestyle, but the city’s intense midday sun and rising UV index can quietly take a toll on your skin, especially if you’re outdoors often. With time this exposure can result in skin tan, which is a common, although often neglected, skin problem that changes one’s complexion and harms skin health. Without thorough research, it is too easy to fall into the impulsive trap of purchasing sunscreens or fairness creams that are marketed heavily in the cosmetic industry, people do not understand what is skin tan, how it works, and what effective tan removal treatments available right here in Bangalore, especially from skin experts at Evenly Clinic, one of Bangalore’s leading skin and hair clinics.

Have you recently noticed a dull, uneven tone in your complexion, especially after a beach visit or prolonged sun exposure? The persistent darkness on your face, arms, or neck is not just a tan—it might do more harm than you think. If you care about your skin and wish to protect your skin, continue reading as it covers what exactly a skin tan is, what causes it, how it impacts the skin, and, most importantly, the effective tan treatments recommended by dermatologists to maintain healthy, radiant skin and skincare strategies to prevent tanned skin in the future.

What is skin tan?

Skin tanning is the natural biological reaction for skin protection from damage due to overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight, but not without some degree of sun damage. In short, it is the process of melanin, a pigment production that absorbs the harmful UV rays and helps protect skin cells from DNA damage. The more UV exposure your skin receives, the more melanin your skin produces, resulting in an uneven complexion. The tan might fade over overtime, but the damage can be long-lasting if left untreated.

Most common areas affected by skin tan

In Bangalore, due to the sunny climate and frequent outdoor exposure, we see tanning especially on:

Common areas affected by skin tan
  • Hands
  • Arms
  • Legs
  • Neck combined with back
  • Face
  • Feet

These are often the areas most affected for those living an urban Bangalore lifestyle.

How does skin tanning occur?

The sun releases three different electromagnetic radiation wavelengths. Of these, ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the main cause of skin damage and tanning. The solar spectrum contains three primary categories of UV radiation: deeply penetrating the skin is UVA (320-400nm); impacting the outermost layers of the skin is UVB (290-320 nm); and UVC is blocked by the ozone layer. Overtime exposure to UVA and UVB leads to increased melanin production and darkens the skin, giving a tanned look.

Whether you are in traffic on your scooter or working near a sunlight window, you are consistently exposed to UV damage.

How to measure skin tan?

Medically, a skin tan is recognized when the skin exhibits dual tones, a distinction between exposed and unexposed areas. According to the Fitzpatrick Scale, our skin tones fall under types 4 and 5, which says that these skin tones are more prone to easy tanning and usually experience minimal burning.

Is a skin tan harmful? Understand the effects of skin tanning

As we all know, skin tanning is a body’s defense mechanism. There are certain consequences with skin tan:

  • Premature Skin Aging: UVA rays cause collagen and elastin to break down, accelerating the development of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
  • Hyperpigmentation: Melasma, sunspots, and patchy pigmentation are caused by prolonged exposure to the sun without protection.
  • Uneven Skin Tone: Dullness and discoloration take the place of the natural glow.
  • Increased Skin Sensitivity: Dehydration and irritation are more likely to occur on tanned skin.

Skin tanning symptoms to watch for

Sun tan typically presents with the following symptoms:

  • The skin may seem noticeably red, sore, and darker.
  • Common symptoms include tenderness, swelling, and burning sensation in affected areas.
  • Skin darkening, peeling, or itching, particularly on sun-exposed areas like the face, back, hands, and legs.
  • In most extreme cases, blistering and burns. Fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, fainting, and unconsciousness are some other symptoms in severe conditions.

Effective Sun Tan Treatment Options at Evenly Clinic

If you are dealing with stubborn tanning and want to restore your natural skin, our dermatologists at Evenly Clinic offer a variety of sun tan treatment options that are both effective and scientifically proven. Let’s explore some of the best tanned skin treatments to treat it safely. At Evenly Clinic, we combine medical expertise and advanced technology to provide the most effective sun tan treatment options tailored to your skin type.

Chemical peel to treat tanned skin

Chemical peel treatment

Our dermatologists at Evenly recommend chemical peels that exfoliate the top layers of the skin, which are where pigmentation builds up. In order to promote skin regeneration and even out sun-induced discoloration, these peels work by applying carefully regulated concentrations of acids, such as lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or trichloroacetic acid.

Based on your skin type and how deep the tan is, your dermatologist may recommend specific treatments.

  • Gentle and appropriate for mild tanning are superficial peels.
  • Medium-depth peels work well for pigmentation that is more noticeable.
  • For extensive sun damage and intense discoloration, deep peels are selectively and carefully utilized.

To ensure safe and noticeable results, every peel at Evenly Skin and Hair Clinic is tailored to your skin type.

Must Read: Reduce Pigmentation Naturally With a Chemical Peel Treatment

Laser Toning – The Best Tanned Skin Treatment

Q switched ND YAG Laser with Tribeam Premium Technology

Laser toning is an advanced tanned skin treatment that targets and breaks up accumulated melanin deep within the dermis. This treatment breaks down pigmentation selectively without damaging surrounding skin tissue by using low-fluence Q-switched lasers to emit precise light wavelengths that transform into thermal energy.

People with darker skin types need careful pigmentation management, as they tan more easily and benefit greatly from laser toning.

Microdermabrasion – A Gentle Exfoliating Tan Treatment

It is a mild, non-invasive exfoliating tan treatment that uses a diamond-tipped or crystal-based applicator to exfoliate the skin’s outermost layer. The tanned, pigmented cells are removed by this mechanical exfoliation, which also promotes the growth of new skin.

It is a popular option for facial tanning because it enhances the texture of the skin, increases the production of collagen, and helps in bringing out a glowing, balanced complexion.

All skin types can safely undergo this procedure, which also requires little recovery time.

Yellow Peel – A controlled exfoliation for deeper tans

A therapist performing yellow peel treatment

The yellow peel is a medium-depth chemical peel that is specifically designed to address uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, and moderate to severe tanning. It has exfoliating agents like retinoic acids that encourage the turnover of the cells, inhibit the synthesis of melanin, and lighten dull skin.

It is perfect for treating extensive sun damage, particularly in individuals with pigmentation that is resistant.

Glutathione IV Treatment

Intravenous glutathione is a popular aesthetic treatment that helps to lighten the skin. Glutathione is a strong antioxidant that lowers oxidative stress, inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme that produces melanin.

Over several sessions, glutathione IV treatment can:

  • Gently enhance your skin’s natural brightness.
  • Lessen pigmentation and tanning,
  • Flushing impurities reveal natural glow.

To ensure both safety and effectiveness, this treatment must be given under an experienced dermatologist’s supervision.

Topical Depigmenting Creams and Lightening Actives

These topical creams may not address the deeper pigmentation, but using these creams in combination with other skin tanned treatments can give you better results. These creams include ingredients like kojic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, licorice extract, retinoids, AHAs, and arbutin.

Such actives are often combined in dermatologist-formulated creams and serums for synergistic action.

Why Bangalore Residents Prefer Dermatological Treatments Over Home Remedies 

Sandalwood packs and curd masks may be part of our South Indian skincare heritage, but they won’t go deep enough to reduce the melanin accumulation. Professional treatments like laser toning and chemical peels target the underlying cause of skin tanning at the initial stage and produce long-lasting results.

At Evenly Clinic, every procedure is curated after assessing Bangalore-specific skin challenges, pollution, humidity, sun, and stress.

Why dermatological tan treatments are better than home remedies?

Home remedies and face packs may provide short-term results, but they won’t go deep enough to reduce the melanin accumulation. Professional treatments like laser toning and chemical peels target the underlying cause of skin tanning at the initial stage and produce long-lasting results.

Additionally, the risk of side effects is reduced as dermatologist-supervised tanned skin treatments are customized to your particular skin type, degree of tanning, and medical history.

Skin care strategies to prevent skin from sun tanning

Treating tanned skin is a good option, but preventing skin from sun damage is a wise option. Here are some of the preventive strategies to look for:

  • Sunscreen is a must to protect your skin against UVA and UVB rays; make use of SPF 50+.
  • Protect your skin with clothing
  • Refrain from stepping outside between 10 AM and 4 PM, the peak hours of UV radiation.
  • Prepare your skin to fight against UV rays by eating foods high in antioxidants like beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E.

Why choose Evenly Clinic in Bangalore for pigmentation removal treatment?

  • Experienced dermatologists and well trained therapists.
  • Supported by cutting-edge technology and clinically proven methods.
  • Focusing on lasting skin wellness instead of temporary solutions.
  • Chosen and trusted by thousands of satisfied patients.
  • Customised treatment solution based on the severity, skin type, medical history, and lifestyle analysis.

Skin tanning is a biological defense mechanism brought on by UV exposure, not just a cosmetic issue. Repeated tanning over time can cause hyperpigmentation disorders, uneven skin tone, and premature aging. The good news is that sun damage can now be treated and reversed with cutting-edge dermatological procedures.

Still struggling with tanned, patchy skin even after trying every home remedy? Don’t let sun damage dull your confidence. What are you waiting for? Book your consultation with Evenly Skin and Hair Clinic today and let us help you bring back your natural glow effortlessly.

Visit us at: 

Evenly Skin and Hair Clinic – HSR Layout

Third Floor, 815, 27th Main Rd, above Bluestone, 1st Sector, HSR Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560102

Evenly Skin and Hair Clinic – Jayanagar

35, Ground Floor, Vinyas Arcade, 11th Main Rd, Vishya Bank Colony, 5th Block, Jayanagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560041

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Frequently Asked Questions

The time required for the treatment is influenced by both the chosen treatment and the degree of tanning. Deeper tans might need three to six sessions of chemical peels or laser therapy spread out over several weeks.

Yes, laser toning is safe when conducted by a certified dermatologist, as it effectively targets melanin on all skin tones, without damaging the surrounding skin.

Depending on the treatment and the degree of tan, three to six sessions are typically needed. After analyzing your skin’s condition, a dermatologist will formulate a plan suited to your needs.

After treatment, stay out of the sun, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+), moisturize frequently, and stay away from harsh skincare products. Pay close attention to the post-care instructions provided by your dermatologist.

Home remedies like curd, lemon, or tomato may provide mild, temporary relief for superficial tan. However, they do not treat deeper pigmentation and may cause irritation. Professional treatments are safer and more reliable.

We hope this information is helpful. If you have any skin and hair-related questions or would like to discuss personalized solutions, please reach out to us at 7337899030. Our team of specialists is committed to delivering personalized care tailored to your specific needs. Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you by scheduling a consultation with us today. Your journey to vibrant skin and stronger hair begins here.

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