Remove suntan which I have for the past 3 years

[SkinProblem11]

I use to have a fair light skin color but now my skin color like dark brown. It like the skin color of the people in the Middle East or Southeast Asia. I wouldn't mind keeping the suntan but the tan is only on my face, neck, and arms (farmer tan). I was just wondering what I can do to get rid of the tan. I had already started to use sunblock to prevent any more tan but my skin seems to be getting darker.

[buni1961]

hello-

I read this post with interest.  I am 47, have been an outdoor swimmer in the summer for many, many years.  After age 30 - 35 I have consistently used 30 - 45 SPF but have ended up with a "base" tan that I'm afraid I'm stuck with....

Is it possible that my skin has permanently become tanned?  I am Irish so I'm normally pale with freckles.  If I permanently avoid the sun (which I now plan to do) will it eventually fade?  do some people stay tanned even if they avoid the sun?  My tan is on my face, neck, chest, back and arms.  My forearms seem to be the most tanned area and this worries me....I'm afraid I have permanent sun damage.

I am also going to consult a cosmetic dermatologist but the laser treatments etc. scare me and the cost is prohibitive.

thanks for your time.

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

'The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends treating mild sunburn with cool baths, over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams, and aspirin to ease pain and swelling.

Severe sunburn should be treated as a medical emergency and examined by a doctor right away. Severe sunburn is often characterized by a large area of red, blistered skin with a headache, fever, or chills. '

A dermatologist or plastic surgeon can develop a treatment plan based on your needs. Treatments can include chemical peels, dermabrasion, and skin fillers.

The effects of the UV radiation from the sun or the UV radiation of tanning beds are the same. '

You could read more about this at -

http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/tanning/risks.html

and

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tanning

It would be advisable to consult your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends the use of sunscreens, wearing sun protective clothing and avoiding the sun altogether.

Let us know if you need any other information.

Regards.