How can I even out my skin tone after a sun tan?

Author: Domenic Kihn  |  Last update: Sunday, January 4, 2026

If you notice any uneven areas after tanning, you can even out your skin tone by spot treating the area with a translucent powder or bronzer. Choose a shade that's either a match for your skin tone or is slightly lighter or darker, as per your preference.

How can I even out my skin tone after tanning?

The best way to get your original skin tone back is to gradually fade your tan by exposing yourself to the sun or a tanning bed for shorter and shorter periods of time. You can also use a self-tanning lotion or cream to help speed up the process.

How to fix uneven sun tan?

How to fix uneven skin tone from sunburn?

How to fix blotchy skin from the sun?

Chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and bleaching creams may also be helpful. However, be sure you talk to your dermatologist first, since some of these approaches may irritate your skin or even make the blotchiness worsen. The most important thing is to keep your sun exposure to a minimum.

ULTIMATE Skincare Routine for EVEN SKIN TONE

Why does my skin look blotchy after tanning?

Exposure to sun or ultraviolet (UV) light, especially after taking a medicine called psoralens, may increase skin color (pigmentation). Increased pigment production is called hyperpigmentation, and can result from certain rashes as well as sun exposure.

How do you restore skin color after sun exposure?

How do you get rid of tan and uneven skin tone?

Gentle exfoliation and certain approved dark spot-lightening products can help reduce the appearance of a tan. A range of home remedies can help even out a self-tan at home. Exfoliating before applying tan may help reduce unevenness or streaking.

How do I get back my original skin color?

How to fix splotchy tan?

How to lighten skin after sun tan?

How to get rid of an uneven tan?

How do I fix my uneven skin tone?

Exfoliation is key to achieving a smooth and radiant skin tone. By gently removing dead skin cells, you encourage new cell growth and reveal a fresher, more even complexion underneath. Regular exfoliation with a gentle exfoliator can also prevent clogged pores and improve the absorption of skincare products.

How to get glass skin?

How can I even out my sun skin tone?

How long does it take for an uneven tan to fade?

A tan from being outside will last an average of 7–10 days. The sun's UV rays stimulate melanin production in the cells of the outer skin layer, so once these cells are shed, you are left with your original skin tone.

Which part of my body shows my real color?

Look into a mirror in natural light. Artificial lighting can alter the appearance of your natural skin colour. Notice the colour of the skin along your jawline or behind your ear. These areas typically tend to show your skin tone in its purest form, without any redness or discolouration that could get in the way.

How do I get my skin color back after a sun tan?

Yes, there are over-the-counter treatments that are meant to erase sun tan. Creams, lotions, serums, and masks containing liquorice extract, vitamin C, kojic acid, glycolic acid, or vitamin C to help lighten and reduce pigmentation.

How to fix discolored skin from sunburn?

Lightening agents: Whitening or lightening agents, such as hydroquinone, can lighten blemishes, sunspots and uneven pigmentation. Laser skin resurfacing: Lasers remove the damaged top layer of skin and increase collagen production, which makes the skin's surface smoother and provides a more even appearance.

How fast does tanning age your skin?

Indoor tanning speeds up skin aging

Indoor tanning is known to cause wrinkles, brown spots and thick leathery skin. Indoor tanning ages your skin 3 times faster than sunlight: indoor tanning can emit up to 15 times more UV radiation than sunlight.

How do I bring back my original skin color?

However, you can improve your natural complexion and skin tone by following these tips: Consistently use sunscreen to prevent tanning and damage. Consume foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Regular cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing can improve skin texture and brightness.

How do you reverse sun discoloration?

How long does it take for sun tanned skin to go back to normal?

A natural tan will usually last for around 7-10 days, although this can vary for each different skin type and colour. However, any exposure to sun during that 7-10 day period could mean that your tan will hang around for longer, so the length of time it lasts really does depend on the individual.