Tanning of the skin occurs due to the action of different kind of cosmic rays. Most commonly, the culprit is UV ray (both A & B). It reacts with the Melanocyte glands present in the skin causing release of Melanin. This gives the skin a dark appearance.

Those having a job that demands moving under the sun, are more prone to get dark. You can follow these simple homemade techniques to reduce the tanning-

Use facial scrub twice a week. You can go for a costly scrub from the market. Alternatively, you may make it in your house. Make a mixture of curd (yogurt) with rice flour. Apply it over the tanned area with light touched circular movements. Keep it for five minutes. Thoroughly wash with cold water.
A mixture of 1 tsp honey with 1 tsp lime juice is equally effective. Apply over the face and keep it for 20 minutes daily. Wash thoroughly.

Make a pulp mixture of ripened papaya and tomato, 1 tsp honey, 1 tsp curd, 4 tsp oatmeal powder. Apply over the tanned area. Let it dry for half an hour. Wash with cold water.