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What is the best tan removal treatment available?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 23-year-old man and I have been dealing with a tan for the past eight years. The tan covers my entire face, but when I grow a beard for a month and then shave it off, my skin returns to its original color. I am wondering if my tan is deep, stubborn, or easily removable. Experts suggest applying sunscreen every two hours. Additionally, I am considering using a Vitamin C serum during the day. Should I wash my face with water before reapplying sunscreen? Is it advisable to wash my face at all? Will washing off the sunscreen before reapplication diminish the effectiveness of the Vitamin C serum? I am looking for the best remedy to remove my tan.

Kindly provide your suggestion on my issue.

Answered by Dr. Syed Shakeel Akthar

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Syed Shakeel Akthar is a skilled Dermatologist and Venereologist with expertise in treating skin, hair, and nail disorders, as well as sexually transmitted infections. He specializes in acne, eczema, psoriasis, pigmentation issues, and skin infections. Known for his thorough diagnosis and patient-focused care, Dr. Syed Shakeel is dedicated to providing effective, personalized treatments using the latest dermatological techniques and evidence-based practices.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

Firstly, I would like to inform you that tanning occurs as a result of sun exposure. When you grow a beard, the hair acts as a protective barrier for the skin underneath, making it appear fairer when you shave. The tan you have is not deep or stubborn. I suggest you apply Vitamin C in the evening and at night and use sunscreen only when you are exposed to the sun. There is no need to use sunscreen when you are indoors. If you apply any medication, leave it on for two to three hours before washing it off. I hope this has helped you. Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you for consulting me.

You can always reach me at icliniq.com.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 21, 2019
Reviewed At December 4, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Syed Shakeel Akthar is a skilled Dermatologist and Venereologist with expertise in treating skin, hair, and nail disorders, as well as sexually transmitted infections. He specializes in acne, eczema, psoriasis, pigmentation issues, and skin infections. Known for his thorough diagnosis and patient-focused care, Dr. Syed Shakeel is dedicated to providing effective, personalized treatments using the latest dermatological techniques and evidence-based practices.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Syed Shakeel Akthar is a skilled Dermatologist and Venereologist with expertise in treating skin, hair, and nail disorders, as well as sexually transmitted infections. He specializes in acne, eczema, psoriasis, pigmentation issues, and skin infections. Known for his thorough diagnosis and patient-focused care, Dr. Syed Shakeel is dedicated to providing effective, personalized treatments using the latest dermatological techniques and evidence-based practices.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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