Dark patches or hyperpigmentation occurs when your skin overproduces melanin. This forms spots or patches on your skin that are darker than the surrounding areas. These spots usually appear on your face, legs, and arms. They can also appear as a result of excessive exposure to sunlight. They are usually harmless, but in some cases, they may be a sign of an underlying skin condition. Many times females use concealers, bb creams and other chemical remedies which can temporarily solve their problem but they forget to focus on the root of the problem as well as on the after-effects of using them. A person should feel comfortable with his skin.
To provide a natural solution to this problem of pigmentation and dark-spots, we have listed ten amazing home remedies which are effective and if used regularly can do wonders by curing the problem of pigmentation and dark patches naturally.
Causes
Dark spots may occur on black skin when the skin overproduces melanin. Melanin is the substance that gives skin its color.
Factors that can trigger excess melanin production include sun exposure and hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy.
Dark spots can also occur as a result of inflammation or trauma to the skin, such as from:
- acne
- bug bites
- burns
- cuts
- psoriasis and other skin conditions
- a reaction to skin care products
Even everyday skin care practices can contribute to the development of dark spots. Using harsh scrubs, waxing, and shaving can all cause minor skin trauma that leads to skin changes.
1. Hydroquinone:
Hydroquinone, also known as dihydroxy benzene, is a hydroxyl phenolic compound. Hydroquinone functions by lightening the skin. It is available in the form of a cream, lotion, gel or liquid. Hydroquinone is found in over-the-counter formulas, but higher strength versions can only be obtained through a prescription. Hydroquinone preparations are commonly used at concentrations varying from two to three percent and can be applied once daily. It inhibits the activity of Tyrosinase, a biological catalyst that triggers melanin production in melanocytes.
2. Drinking plenty water:
Drinking plenty of water can do wonders to your skin. It helps in cleansing the body by eliminating all the toxins. Drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water per day will be the best and the most natural way of developing a clear, smooth and glowing skin. Water helps in flushing out all the toxins and waste from your body. However, try to avoid the consumption of alcohol, carbonated and sugary drinks. Include fruits and vegetables which are high in water content in your diet. Also, wash your face at least two times a day to remove dust and dirt from your face to improve the appearance of your skin.
3. Lemon and yogurt masks:
We all know that lemons have a number of benefits. It can be used to get rid of dark spots. The vitamin C and the citric acid present in lemons make it a perfect bleaching agent which can help in lightening the dark spots. This is the most trusted and an age old practice which has shown unfailing results.
The bleaching property of lemon and the cleaning property of yogurt is a great combination to lighten the dark spots and to bring a glow on the face. Sugar has exfoliating properties and can be used as a scrub to remove the dead skin on the face. This gives a refreshed look.
4. Vitamin C:
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant. When it comes to skin care, research suggests that it can protect against sun damage, increase collagen levels, and reduce the formation of melanin to stop hyperpigmentation. However, it is unclear how effective it can be due to the poor ability of current preparations to penetrate the skin.
5. Green tea:
Green tea has long been studied for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Green tea extracts comprise multiple polyphenolic antioxidants helpful in inhibiting UV-induced melisma.
6. Turmeric:
The active ingredient of turmeric is curcumin, a yellow pigment. Curcumin stimulates apoptosis (cell death occurs as a normal and controlled part of an organism’s growth or development) in human melanoma cells.
7. Soy:
Soybean, a legume, consists of many biologically active substances like is flavones and serine protease inhibitors. It stops the transfer of mmelanosomes.
8. Tomatoes:
Tomatoes can be used as a very good skin toner. It brings a natural glow on your face. Tomatoes are not only good when directly applied on the skin but also do wonders when you have it raw. Apply tomato paste on your face like a face pack and leave it for about 10 minutes. You can rinse it with cold water. This makes your skin soft, smooth and glowing.
9. Aloe vera:
Aloe vera is a plant which has many beneficial properties and is one of the best and natural things to improve the quality of the skin. It contains ninety percent of the amino acids found in the body and also has vitamins A, B, C and E in it.
Aloe vera plant possesses anti-aging and skin nourishing properties. It helps in removing dark spots and also reduces discoloration on the skin. It is used as a pain relief and also has antiseptic properties. It even works as an excellent moisturizer and therefore can make your skin smooth and soft.
10. Papaya:
Papaya has enzymes and mineral elements which are the natural ingredients in removing dark spots. Apply a paste of ripe papaya on your skin and leave it to dry. Rinse with clean water after 20 minutes. You can repeat this method everyday for a week and it will help in bringing a glow to your face.
Dark spots are a common problem for those with black skin. They are harmless, but some people may wish to treat them for cosmetic reasons.
