Hyperpigmentation can lower your confidence and self-esteem to a large extent. Though there are a lot of over-the-counter ointments and medicated creams available today, most of them contain steroids that cause long-term damage to your skin if used for a prolonged period. The moment you stop applying them, the hyperpigmentation re-surfaces and the whole cycle starts once again.
Are there other natural and safer ways for you to battle the problem? Yes, there are and this post will give you an insight into them today. However, before we get into these safe and natural remedies for hyperpigmentation, let us understand its causes below-
What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a medical term for darker patches of skin. It surfaces due to the excess production of the skin pigment called melanin. It does not refer to a condition but can occur as small patches, cover the whole body or appear as large patches on your skin. The common types of hyperpigmentation are-
- Melasma-This type of hyperpigmentation takes place during pregnancy or when there are major hormonal fluctuations in the body. It often surfaces on the face or your stomach.
- Sunspots– Popularly known as solar lentigines or liver spots. They are caused by excessive exposure to the sun. They often appear in exposed skin areas like your hands or face.
- Hyperpigmentation (due to an injury or skin inflammation) – Injuries and inflammation to the skin causes this type of hyperpigmentation with the most common being acne.
Diagnosis and treatment of hyperpigmentation
It is prudent to visit a qualified dermatologist in order to ascertain the cause/causes of hyperpigmentation. Your medical history will be taken into consideration and some physical tests will be advised to you, if needed. In rare cases, the dermatologist might even ask you to get a skin biopsy done for narrowing down the cause of hyperpigmentation if it appears on your whole body.
Treat hyperpigmentation at home with natural remedies
Given below are some safe natural remedies for hyperpigmentation-
1. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid that helps in the lightening of dark spots on your skin. In order to use this safe natural remedy for hyperpigmentation-
- Combine equal proportions of water and apple cider vinegar in a clean dry container
- Apply the solution to the darkened patches. Leave on for two to three minutes
- Rinse off with lukewarm water
- Repeat twice daily for optimal results.
2. Aloe vera has a potent ingredient called aloin that naturally lightens pigmented areas of the skin. It is 100 percent safe and non-toxic in nature. In order to use aloe vera for hyperpigmentation-
- Take a good amount of aloe vera gel (from the plant, if possible) and apply it on the area. If you do not have a plant, buy a good aloe vera gel product from the market with lesser added ingredients and preservatives.
- Let it sink into your skin overnight
- Wash it off with lukewarm water when you get up in the morning. Use until the darkened spots become lighter.
3. Red onion extract called allium cepa is an effective ingredient against hyperpigmentation.
You will often find this ingredient in scar and skin lightening creams sold in the market. Recent research has discovered that the dried skin of these red onions can lighten skin over time. Look for hyperpigmentation treatment creams that contain allium cepa and apply as directed.
4. The extract of green tea has the ability to lighten dark patches with time. You can buy green tea extract from the market and apply it to the targeted area, as directed. Green tea bags can also be used but there isn’t much evidence of their results.
5. Licorice extract has active ingredients to lighten hyperpigmentation caused by exposure to the sun and melasma. Topical creams with licorice extract are sold over the counter. Check the packaging and apply as directed.
6. Milk is an inexpensive natural remedy for hyperpigmentation with no side effects.
You can use buttermilk, sour milk or even plain milk on the dark areas. Lactic acid in the milk will gradually make these areas lighter. In order to apply milk to the dark areas-
- Take a clean cotton ball. Soak it in milk
- Rub gently over the darkened area twice daily
- Repeat until you see visible results
7. The paste of tomatoes is highly effective against hyperpigmentation.
In a study published by The British Journal of Dermatology in 2011, it was found that the paste of tomatoes, rich in lycopene, reduced the effects of photo-damage on the skin. The participants of this Study consumed 55 grams of tomato paste in olive oil for 12 weeks and discovered visible results.
When it comes to the treatment of hyperpigmentation, always remember it is more of a cosmetic over a medical concern. Talk to your doctor if you suspect your hyperpigmentation is due to an underlying medical condition. Prevent the direct sun from 10am to 3pm, if you can. Make sure you use a good quality sunscreen if you have to venture out during the day with an SPF of at least 30 and UVA and UVB protection to prevent skin tanning, burns and the subsequent darkening of your skin. Use a hat and sunglasses. Wear comfortable clothing and carry an umbrella if the heat of the sun is too hot.
