Last Updated on January 8, 2024 by Aditi Gangal
Quick Take
A social media post claims that rubbing onion and toothpaste on the skin can remove tanning. The claim also suggest mixing soda and rose water to make the concoction. We fact-checked and found this claim to be False.
The Claim
A YouTube video shows that rubbing onion and toothpaste can remove tanning and clean the skin. The video gathered around 17k views till we last checked.
We have attached a screenshot of the post below:
Fact Check
Which factors determine human skin colour?
Human skin is available in a variety of tones and colours. Numerous factors influence skin colour, but genetics is the primary reason. The enzyme tyrosinase is responsible for the genetic mechanism that controls human skin colour.
Melanin is the determinant of skin colour which our skin produces through cells called melanocytes. Melanin controls the genes that determine skin colour by quantity and quality. This genetic mechanism is set in place by facultative melanogenesis and tanning reactions.
Moreover, vitamin D, like melanin, also regulates cellular proliferation and differentiation in various tissues. So, it may also influence skin colour.
What is tanning?
Tanning is the process by which the skin becomes darker in color due to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The primary source of UV radiation is sunlight, but artificial sources like tanning beds also emit these rays. When the skin is exposed to UV radiation, the body’s melanocytes (cells that produce melanin) increase melanin production. These cells does it as a defense mechanism to protect the skin from further damage caused by UV rays.
Melanin is the pigment responsible for the color of the skin, hair, and eyes. It acts as a natural sunscreen by absorbing and dispersing UV radiation. Melanin reduces the amount that penetrates deeper layers of the skin. The increased production of melanin leads to the skin darkening or tanning.
How tanning is removed?
Some methods that can help remove tanning are:
- Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, which can help lighten a tan. Exfoliating with scrubs, loofahs, or exfoliating gloves can gradually fade the tan by shedding of the outermost layer of skin.
- Skin-lightening products: Various creams, lotions, and serums containing ingredients that can help in reducing the appearance of tanning over time. These products may help speed up the skin’s natural exfoliation process and inhibit melanin production.
- Bleaching agents: Some individuals might resort to bleaching agents, which can help lighten the skin. However, people should use them cautiously and under professional guidance. They can potentially cause skin irritation and other side effects if not used properly.
- Chemical peels: Dermatologists may perform chemical peels. The process involves applying a chemical solution to the skin to exfoliate and peel off the outer layer. This can help reduce the appearance of tanning and promote the growth of new, lighter skin.
- Laser treatments: Certain laser therapies or intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments can target areas of hyperpigmentation caused by tanning. These procedures work by breaking down melanin pigments in the skin, leading to a reduction in tan appearance.
Can the mixture of onion and toothpaste remove tanning from skin?
No. There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that onion and toothpaste can remove skin tanning. Toothpaste is specifically for dental care and should not be used on the skin. Toothpaste may contain ingredients that can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Onions, on the other hand, contain antioxidants that may have some benefits for the skin. But the effects of onion to cause skin whitening is not yet known.
In general, tan removal may cause skin whitening but the intention behind tanning removal and skin whitening may differ. Methods such as exfoliation, use of skin-lightening ingredients, or certain treatments like chemical peels or laser therapies, can cause a lighter skin tone. These methods might have overlapping effects in reducing pigmentation and achieving a lighter complexion.
While some home remedies might have anecdotal support, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that onion or toothpaste can effectively remove tanning.
Dr. Joyeeta Chowdhury, MD (Dermatology) says, “Toothpaste contains non-ionic detergent SLS/polyethylene glycol. triclosan/copolymer. People shpuld not put these substances on the skin especially facial skin for a long time.”
In fact, both onion and toothpaste can be irritating to the skin, and applying them together could cause further irritation. Additionally, the sulphur in onion can interact with the ingredients in toothpaste, which could create a chemical reaction that could damage the skin.
Dr. Iram Qazi, MD (Dermatology) says, “Toothpaste may contain ingredients that may whiten teeth but not skin. Applying toothpaste can cause skin irritation, burning, and redness as its ingredients are too strong for the skin. I will not advise using toothpaste for any skin-related problems.”
Likewise to understand the impact of rose water on skin, we referred to Dr. Soumya Sachdeva, Consultant Dermatologist. She suggests, “Rose water has anti-inflammatory properties which can soothe the skin and decrease redness of the skin. Thus, it may be beneficial in treating acne, however, not all skin types may tolerate the application of rose water on the face, due to the development of contact dermatitis.
Moreover, Dr. Swati Watwani, Medical Director, Co-Founder & Chief Consultant – Persianlily – Skin/ Hair/ Aesthetics/ Ayurveda Clinic, does not recommend using baking soda on the skin. She informs that baking soda has a highly alkaline PH and can cause a lot of disruption to the health of your natural skin barrier, it can also negatively influence the functions of enzymes in the skin and really lead to problems such as irritation, water loss from the skin, impaired barrier function. The skin has acidic PH also baking soda being highly abrasive can cause lots of non-specific mechanical exfoliation drying out the skin and make it more sensitive further by inducing rashes & aggravating hyperpigmentation.
Dr. Neha Khurana, MD (Dermatology) agrees, She says, “I do not recommend such a do-it-yourself type of skin treatment. One needs to understand that our skin’s pH is on the acidic end, thus using an agent with a basic pH can alter skin’s pH balance affecting skin’s moisture barrier, causing irritation, dryness, and peeling to skin. Moreover, toothpaste can also cause allergic contact dermatitis.”
Lastly, Dr. Jyoti Agarkar, MD (Dermatology) sums it up by stating, “God has given us a very beautiful body and skin, and we should cherish it instead of trying to change its colour. I always prescribe my patients a healthy diet, regular exercise, enough sleep, and a good amount of water consumption. This helps in bringing out a natural glow that cannot be matched by any artificially induced whitening products. Also, when you are choosing any skincare products, choose according to your skin type.”
There are several myths that exist about whitening the skin. THIP Media has previously fact-checked such claims. it includes a mixture of sugar and lemon juice can whiten the skin, and a mixture of tomato and baking soda can whiten skin, etc.
It is important to use products that dermatologists recommed. Additionally, always consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist before trying any new skincare treatment, especially if someone has sensitive or problematic skin.
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