THE Indian penchant for fair complexion dates back to antiquity. Most matrimonial ads even today unabashedly seek a "fair and beautiful bride." While dusky models like Naomi Campbell maybe ooh-ahhed at on the ramp, we still sneak in fairness products on our dressing tables. And cosmetic companies are quick to cash in on this weakness. They are rapidly introducing creams that promise fairness. It is estimated that whitening products worth $70 billion are sold in Asia alone.

But as per the international fashion fraternity, dusky skin has never had it so good! While peaches and cream complexion probably will never get outdated, fashioners are giving models a tanned look on the international ramp. The Golden Glamazon, as the new tanned look is called, believes in an all-over tan, from top to toe. So those with a naturally dark skin have little reason to fret about. Dark complexions are either reddish or yellowish in tone. The right make-up base to even out the skin tone is mandatory. Whether dark or fair, the most disparaging effect on the skin is that of the sun. And it is wrongly believed that sun screens prevent darkening and must be applied while going outdoors. Reflected light, which can reach you even when you are inside your home or office, can also cause early wrinkling of the skin. Daily sun protection is a must.

The best way to achieve year-round sun protection is to apply a sunscreen containing moisturiser every morning on the face, ears, neck, and upper chest. The new sunscreen-cum-moisturisers which contain zinc oxide provide excellent protection against the harmful rays of the sun. Zinc oxide is hyper allergenic, rendering it safe for use in acne prone or sensitive skin. Cosmetic giants, however, are doling out millions of bucks to try out ingredients that block darkening. Major ingredients that act on the colour of the skin are hydroquinone, alpha hydroxy acids, etc. Natural ingredients like green tea, claim cosmetologists, also lighten the skin to a certain extent. Hydroquinone, however, is a strong ingredient and dermatologists advise discontinuance after three month of its regular use.

Researchers in most of Asia, Europe and parts of Africa forbid the addition of hydroquinone in skin care preparations. This is due to a progressive darkening of the skin that occurred among users in South Africa. Let’s face it! No cream can make you fairer than the skin colour you were born with. All that you should aim for is a supple skin that draws out the best of your features.

Concealer: Use a concealer to hide spots and blemishes before applying the foundation. Choose a foundation to match your skin tone and keep the application of powder to a minimum as dark complexion looks greyish with too much of powder.

Blusher: Choose a non-greasy blusher in warm colours such as brick red and rich plum Highlighter: It can be very effective on dark skins when used on the bridge of the nose, above the cheek bones and on the brow bones. Both gold and silver look good. Eye shadow: Gold, copper or bronze looks great, especially with heavily kohled eyes. However, keep this look for evenings only.

Lipsticks: All shades of brown, brick red, rich plum go well with dusky complexions.

• Mix 1 tsp of milk powder, 1 tsp of honey, 1 tsp of lemon juice, 1/2 tsp of almond oil. Apply on face and wash off after 10-15 min. This pack helps bring shine to the skin and also removes the tan.

• Mix oatmeal with curd and tomato juice and apply on the face. Keep it on for 20 minutes and then wash it off with cold water. It helps remove the tan and lightens the skin.

• Place sliced raw potato on the face. It helps reduce blemishes and other marks.

• Applying turmeric powder along with lime juice removes the tan. Lime juice is a natural bleach.

• Dried orange peels mixed with curd also help reduce blemishes and scars. Wash off this mixture with cold water after 15 minutes.