Pigmentation of epithelial cells is an evolutionary tract that serves to defend the body from the sun's rays. Throughout history, however, paleness has been considered by many cultures to be a symbol of status and wealth, and it is only recently that tanning has gained popularity. Those who want to be a little paler can lighten their skin in a number of ways and should take some precautions, such as avoiding the sun and caring for their skin properly.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Getting out of the sun
Step 1. Avoid exposure to UV rays
People who live near the equator are subject to more ultraviolet radiation, which stimulates epithelial cells to produce more melanin. Excess melanin is reflected in the darkening of the skin, which protects it from UV rays. Staying out of sunlight, therefore, is the most efficient way to achieve pale skin.
- Avoid the sun whenever possible, especially between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm, when sunlight is strongest.
- Always have an umbrella with you - in addition to protecting yourself from the sun, you will always be prepared for the rain. The common black umbrella blocks at least 90% of UV rays.
- Be aware that sunlight and ultraviolet rays are reflected off concrete walls, sand, snow and other surfaces - so protect yourself from indirect light as well as you protect yourself from direct light.
Step 2. Use sunscreen
Choose a brand with a broad spectrum (ie one that blocks UVA and UVB rays) and with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) between 30 and 50. It is not necessary to look for sunscreens with an SPF greater than 50, as the difference on the effectiveness of the product is negligible.
During the winter, even though the climate is cooler and the sun is farther away from the Earth, we are also exposed to UV rays. That's why it's important to use sunscreen every day of the year, especially if you like to play winter sports at high altitudes
Step 3. Wear clothing that protects you from the sun
The light clothes we wear in summer (made from cotton, for example) do not block sunlight satisfactorily. Look for clothes with a high degree of UPF (UV protection factor). Give preference to pieces with long sleeves, high collars and that cover the legs. Long-brimmed hats, as well as sunglasses and gloves, are also good options.
Although the sun stimulates the production of vitamin D, most people don't need more than 20 minutes of direct exposure to sunlight daily
Part 2 of 4: Taking care of your skin and body
Step 1. Follow a healthy diet
Eating lots of fruits, fresh vegetables and whole foods can work miracles for your skin. A healthy body creates healthy skin, and healthy skin is less prone to blemishes, imperfections, uneven coloration, dryness, redness, etc.
- Consume fruits and vegetables of all colors to obtain a satisfactory amount of vitamins and minerals.
- Add more foods rich in vitamin C to your menu. In addition to helping to lighten the skin, this substance contributes to the production of collagen, also increasing its elasticity.
- Also consume antioxidant-rich foods and beverages, which alleviate signs of aging, including wrinkles, blemishes, and skin discoloration.
Step 2. Hydrate yourself
Although too much water is harmful, our bodies and our skins need adequate hydration to be healthy. Drink water whenever you feel thirsty, especially during sports. Moisturizing the skin prevents it from drying out and peeling, in addition to giving it more shine.
Step 3. Exercise regularly
Cardiovascular exercise benefits your heart and lungs and stimulates circulation - two things that help keep your skin healthy. In addition, physical activities reduce nervousness, making it difficult for acne, eczema and skin redness to appear.
Those who suffer from illnesses such as rosacea, psoriasis and eczema should exercise in a cold environment to avoid flare-ups, in addition to moistening the skin before and after exercise
Step 4. Keep your skin clean and hydrated
To take care of your skin properly, wash your body every day with products that are not too aggressive, exfoliate once or twice a week and use moisturizer daily. Since dust buildup decreases the skin's clarity, a proper hygiene routine will help you look cleaner and clearer.
Step 5. Massage your skin
Like physical exercise, massage stimulates blood circulation, which contributes to healthy, radiant skin. Take a few minutes before bed to massage with aloe cream or some lotion. I spread the product until it is well absorbed.
Part 3 of 4: Lightening the skin
Step 1. Get rid of the tan
When exposed to the sun frequently, the skin produces more melanin, which makes it a little darker. Therefore, an effective way to look pale is to reduce your tan-a process that occurs naturally when the body sheds the surface cells of the epidermis. In other words, you cannot "de-tanning" the skin, but you can speed up cell elimination with the help of gentle exfoliations.
Step 2. Use foods that help to lighten your skin
Several foods have a lightening action. Use them as creams and exfoliants to remove dead layers of skin. Before bed, apply a thin layer of natural yogurt to the skin; rinse with warm water after 10 minutes. Another solution is to make an oat mask, tomato juice and yogurt (1 tablespoon of each ingredient); apply the mixture to the face and rinse after 30 minutes.
Step 3. Use Vitamin C as a treatment
Foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruit juice, can be applied directly to the skin, as they promote exfoliation and lightening of dark spots. However, you should not use citric acid on your face or use the products mentioned above more than once a week. Apply the juice to the skin with the aid of a cotton ball; rinse after 10 to 20 minutes.
Step 4. Make a homemade mask with turmeric or chickpea flour
Make a paste of turmeric and rose water or chickpea flour and cucumber juice and apply it to your face. Rinse after 30 minutes or when the paste dries.
Step 5. Soak the skin in rice water (ie the water the rice soaks in) or rub raw potatoes into it for a lightening effect
Rinse with warm water after 30 minutes.
Step 6. Try an industrialized whitening cream
These creams are sold in the beauty and cosmetics sections of large department stores and reduce the concentration of melanin in the skin. Consult a physician before using such products; follow the usage and safety instructions provided by the product or the package insert.
- Many whitening creams have hydroquinone as the active ingredient. Keep in mind, however, that some countries have banned this substance for safety reasons. In Brazil, for example, only 2% of the ingredient is allowed per commercial drug. In case of manipulation, the tolerance is 4%.
- Avoid any mercury-based products. Even though their sale is banned in most countries, they can be found on the internet.
Part 4 of 4: Wearing the Right Clothes and Makeup
Step 1. Use foundation and corrector with prudence
Such cosmetics can be used to make the skin pale, but shades far removed from its natural color will look unnatural. Instead, choose a shade that matches (maybe one above) your skin. Use foundation and concealer only to hide small imperfections and to make makeup application easier.
Apply BB cream (also known as beauty balm) to the face to smooth the skin and cover blemishes and imperfections
Step 2. Use eye makeup, lipsticks and dark nail polish
Dark colors in eyes, lips and nails are accentuated by the skin, making it appear lighter. Colors that have this effect include black, brown, dark purples, reds, blues, and even cobalt and indigo.
Step 3. Think about the possibility of dyeing your hair
As well as makeup and other details, darker hair contrasts with the skin on the face and neck, making it appear paler. People who are allergic, sensitive or who would like to avoid harsh chemical treatments can use henna-based dye.
Step 4. Wear dark clothes
Pastel or light clothing can make pale people look dull, embarrassing - dark clothing, in turn, is more interesting and enhances the paleness of the skin.
Tips
- Shaving frequently helps the skin to become clearer, as the hairs darken the face when they start to grow.
- If you don't get a lot of sun or use sun block frequently, take a vitamin D supplement.