Pigmentation is a skin condition in which our body produces too much melanin in certain areas of skin. Primarily, it affects our skin color and makes it darker. The good news is that several home remedies for pigmentation on face are easily available in our kitchen. Mostly, pigmentation is not a serious concern and very rarely indicates any medical condition. Even skincare experts say that natural skincare regimen is a way to an even skin tone and healthy skin.
Types of pigmentationMelasma
This type of pigmentation causes brown or gray patches on the skin. It occurs in deeper layers of the dermis. It is caused by hormonal imbalances and more common in women. Certain factors like exposure to UV radiations, use of some medications, pregnancy, and stress are likely to worsen this condition.
Solar lentigines
Solar lentigines are also called age spots and liver spots and mostly occur in people above 40. It is the most common type of hyperpigmentation where light brown to black color patches appear on the skin. To know more read here
Freckles
Freckles are the most common type of pigmentation. These are developed after repeated exposure to sunlight and usually, they appear in people who have a fair complexion. Freckles become prominent during the sunny months and fade away in the winter season.
Post acne pigmentation
Post acne pigmentation is the discoloration of the skin that follows acne, burns or any other inflammatory wound. Usually, this skin condition gets resolved with time or with the use of simple kitchen ingredients.
Pigmentation is a common skin condition and is harmless in most of cases. However, nobody ever wants any type of scars or spots on any part of their body, especially on their face. There is a wide range of effective home remedies for pigmentation on face, which provides the best possible solution for this skin problem.
Top 5 Natural Remedies for Pigmentation at Home
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera contains a compound called Aloesin i.e. known to inhibit the melanin production in the body. In addition, it promotes skin repairing and new cell regeneration which helps to clear dark spots and lightens the pigmentation. Use of this home remedy is a very good way to remove pigmentation.
Directions to use
- Take 2 tablespoons fresh aloe vera gel in a container.
- Mix ½ tablespoon of raw honey in it.
- Leave this combination for 8-10 minutes, and then apply over the affected area.
- Let it dry for 20-25 minutes.
- Rinse off your face with cold water.
- Another option is to apply Aloe Vera directly on the face before going to bed. Next morning rinse the gel off.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Being packed with acetic acid, apple cider vinegar helps to reduce the melanin deposits and ultimately fades pigmentation. Its astringent properties help in exfoliating skin and finally give the spots free appearance.
Directions to use
- Mix the equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and water in a container.
- Take a cotton swab and dip into this mixture and apply it on the affected skin area.
- Leave it for 3-4 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water.
- For desired results do it twice daily.
3. Red Onion Extract
Red Onion is enriched in acidic properties which work effectively to lighten pigmentation. Research studies say that onion extract contains certain bioactive compounds that help in treating the pigmentation. Follow the below-given procedure for red onion extract home remedy for pigmentation.
Directions to use
- Take a red onion and wash it properly.
- Grate the onion and strain the juice.
- With the help of a cotton ball apply this juice on the affected area of skin.
- Leave it for 5-10 minutes and then rinse the face with normal water.
- Another option is to rub the slices of onion on the affected area of skin for 5 minutes, then wash the face.
Lemon juice and honey act a wonderful combination for improving the skin tone. Lemon has Vitamin C which is a powerful bleaching agent. Furthermore, vitamin C in lemon brings many other remarkable benefits to the skin such as boosting the collagen production, improving the skin elasticity, and removing the dead skin cells. Therefore, the use of lemon and honey is a very effective way to remove pigmentation.
To know more about the benefits of Vitamin C for skin read here
Directions to use
- Take 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon and mix it with a ½ tablespoon of honey.
- Mix it well, then dab a cotton ball in the lemon juice and pat it on your scar.
- Let it be for 15 minutes.
- Wash off face with cold water.
5. Olive Oil
Olive oil has a protective effect on the skin from the sun when it comes to treating pigmentation. It also helps to reduce the redness and age spots. Water-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) found in Olive oil make it an effective home remedy for pigmentation. Additionally, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties make it a more preferred option for treating acne scars.
Directions to use
- Take one tablespoon of olive oil and puncture one capsule of Vitamin E in it.
- Mix it properly.
- With the help of cotton ball apply this mixture on all affected areas.
- Leave it for overnight, next morning wash it off with normal water.
6. Raw potatoes
Raw potatoes home remedy for pigmentation is considered very effective. It contains an enzyme called Catecholase which hinders too much melanin production. Application of potato helps in the reduction of pigmentation and lightening of dark spots.
Directions to use
- Take a potato and wash it properly and make the small slices.
- Apply these slices in a circular motion on the affected area for at least 5 minutes.
- Leave it for another five minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water.
7. Tomatoes
From the category of citrus fruits, tomatoes are another powerful way to remove pigmentation. It is a rich source of the antioxidant lycopene, vitamin A, and other essential nutrients that work well to improve your skin tone.
Directions to use
- Take a tomato and put in a blender to make juice.
- Dip the cotton pad in the juice and dab it on the face.
- Leave it for 10-15 minutes, and then wash it off with normal water.
8. Sandalwood
Sandalwood is famous for ages for its skin lightening properties and is one of the Most Effective home remedies for pigmentation on face. It has a soothing impact on skin which helps to get rid of unnecessary marks and blemishes.
Directions to use
- Mix the sandalwood powder with rose water to a make a paste.
- Wash your face properly, and then apply this paste on the affected area.
- Leave it for 20-25 minutes.
- Rinse it off with normal water.
OTHER WAYS TO REMOVE PIGMENTATION
1. Avoid sun exposure
Always use a broad spectrum sunscreen that shields you from both UVA and UVB rays. Using sunscreen helps to stops pigmentation from becoming darker.
2. Opt for a healthy life style and eating pattern
An unhealthy diet brings baggage full of many skin problems such as pigmentation, dryness, sagging and pre- mature ageing. That’s why it is important to go for a diet that is enriched with antioxidants, green leafy vegetables, vitamin C, and phytonutrients.
3. Exfoliate your skin with natural
Make skin cleansing as an integral part of your routine. Use gentle natural skin cleansers to remove the damaged skin cells and also avoid scratching or picking the skin.
4. Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity offers many skin health benefits from detoxification of body to halting the aging process. Daily exercise donates a great amount of oxygen to your body which ultimately helps in skin repair and nourishment. At least spare 30 minutes from your schedule for work out.
5. Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water not only gives healthy skin but also serves as the best home remedy for pigmentation. The dehydrated skin is at more risk for pigmentation hence it is recommended to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily.
