hyperpigmentation Archives - Skin Disease Remedies

It is not easy at all to have wholly healthy and clean skin. Most of the people around the world are facing some types of skin related issues. There are loads of unhealthy skin conditions you can suffer from very quickly due to different factors like environment, diet, lack of physical exercises, consumption of junk food, pregnancy, medications, etc.

We are going to discuss- How to get rid of melasma without using any harmful or harsh skin product.

Melasma is one of the prevalent skin problems usually occurs in women. Although it can also be seen in men, the condition is more common in women, especially during and after pregnancy. It is also termed as “chloasma,” and when it occurs during pregnancy, it is called as “mask of pregnancy” in general terms.

Melasma causes discoloration patches on different parts of the body. Usually, the melasma patches are darker than your natural skin color and typically occurs on the face. It is very easy to observe similar patches on both sides of the face.

Different parts of the body like forehead, cheeks, chin, bridge of the nose, forearms, and neck can develop melasma, and it tends to increase its presence when the person suffering from melasma is continuously under the sunlight.

The melasma doesn’t cause any physical harm, but it can create a lack of self-confidence and may develop self-consciousness especially due to the way it looks. If you are also annoyed with melasma or want to help someone to get rid of the annoying skin discoloration, you can have a look at this article.

We will try to figure out some causes of melasma. Then we will proceed further to learn about some home remedies for melasma. We will also underline some handy tips to avoid melasma. Let’s talk about the causes of melasma in brief.

Also Read: 12 Essential Oils for Hyperpigmentation

What Causes of Melasma?

The exact cause of melasma is still not apparent, but the tendency or trends of melasma can be taken into account to point out some common causes.

According to the reports, melasma is commonly seen in individuals with dark skin. The sensitivity of estrogen and progesterone are also associated with melasma.

We can say stress, pregnancy, bit control pills, hormone therapy and sunlight exposure can trigger melasma.

20 Home Remedies to Get Rid of Melasma Naturally

When melasma occurs due to pregnancy or birth control pills, usually it disappears on its own. If some other factors are responsible for melasma, it can be a bit tough to get rid of it. Using unknown harsh chemical substances can cause further damage to the skin. So, it is better to adopt some natural ways to get rid of melasma.

This is the most crucial part of our discussion. We are going to discuss so many natural and home remedies that can reduce melasma with ease and that too without causing any health-related problem. You can use these home remedies to get rid of melasma without overthinking about the side effects or something like that.

#1 Apple Cider Vinegar

Benefits: ACV is one of the best home remedies and can cure most of the unhealthy skin conditions. Presence of acetic acid makes ACV a very powerful bleaching agent which can help to remove dark spots from the skin. It can also make your skin radiant and smooth.

Recipe:

Take half cup concentrated ACV and half cup of water.
Mix well and apply on the melasma spots.
Leave it for 10 minutes in open area to let it dry.
Wash off with lukewarm water and pat dry with soft cloth.
You can use ACV like this every day.

Also Read: Is Apple Cider Vinegar Good for Melasma?

#2 Lemon Juice

Benefits: Wonderful astringent properties of lemon juice make it one of the best skin lightener. Powerful acidic nature of lemon juice is capable of removing unhealthy skin layers and eliminating a whole new layer.

Recipe:

There are so many different ways to use lemon juice. We are discussing a very simple one.
Take a fresh medium sized lemon (green lemon is better) and squeeze its juice.
Apply on the affected area(s) and rub gently for a couple of minutes.
You can wash off with lukewarm water after leaving it for 20 minutes.
Repeat the process twice a daily and you will see the difference with 2-3 weeks.

#3 Onion Juice with ACV

Benefits: There are plenty of sulfur-containing compounds in onion which make it one of the best natural remedies for maintaining the tonicity of the skin. It can easily remove the dark patches from skin. Onion juice can also nourish your skin to a decent extent.

Recipe:

Take 3 medium sized onions and chop finely.
Cover them in a soft cotton cloth and beat slightly on a hard surface.
Squeeze the cloth to extract onion juice.
Add equal amount of ACV.
Use a cotton ball to apply on the affected areas.
Keep the mixture on for 20 minutes and then wash off with fresh water.
Apply a scented moisturizer like rose water to get rid of raw smell of onion.
Follow the process twice daily for 3-4 weeks.

#4 Turmeric and Milk

Benefits: Abnormal melanin production is also one of the responsible factors behind melasma. And using turmeric is one of the best options to maintain the melanin production.

Active ingredient of turmeric- curcumin has antioxidant and skin-lightening properties and can be very effective in case of melasma. Skin Glowing properties of milk is undoubtedly going to be helpful to reduce dark spots caused due to melasma.

Recipe:

Add 5 tbsp. turmeric powder to 10 tbsp. milk.
Mix well and prepare a fine paste.
It is better to use whole milk.
Add 1 tbsp. gram flour to maintain the consistency.
Apply evenly on the melasma affected areas.
Leave it for 20 minutes and then rinse off with warm water.
Pat dry with a soft cloth.
Repeat this process daily for excellent results.

Also read: How to Use Turmeric for Melasma?

#5 Oatmeal

Benefits: Oatmeal is one of the most powerful natural exfoliating agent and can remove dark spots very easily. It can also dissolve dead skin cells under the skin layers and will give you clean, brighter and glowing skin.

Recipe:

Take 2 tbsp. oatmeal, 2 tbsp. milk and 1 tbsp. honey.
Mix all the ingredients properly to make a fine paste.
Apply on the skin affected with melasma.
Keep the mixture on for 20 minutes.
Wash off with fresh water and pat dry.
Keep doing this three times a week for 5-6 weeks.

#6 Aloe Vera Gel

Benefits: When we talk about skin, how can we forget Aloe Vera Gel? It is one of the best natural remedies for most of the skin conditions. There are plenty of mucilaginous polysaccharides in Aloe Vera gel and is capable of alleviating hyperpigmentation and restoring your natural and original skin color.

Recipe:

Take a fresh aloe vera leaf and cut it to open.
Extract the fresh gel into a small bowl.
Gently message on the affected area for a couple of minutes.
Leave it on the skin for half an hour and then wash off with lukewarm water.
Follow the process for twice or at least once in a day for 5 weeks.

#7 Horseradish

Benefits: Horseradish is not only beneficial for reducing excessive body weight, it is also very good at curing plenty of different skin problems. It has the capacity to reduce all types of skin discolorations, scars, and blemishes. It is also one of the most effective home remedies for melasma.

Recipe:

Take a dried horseradish and break into small pieces.
Convert these pieces into fine powder.
Add 2 tbsp. horseradish powder and 1 cup of sour curd together.
Mix well to make a fine paste.
Apply on the melasma affected skin and leave for half an hour.
Wash off with lukewarm water.
Repeat this process once or twice a week.

Also Read: How to Use Olive Oil for Melasma?

#8 Papaya

Benefits: Papaya is one of the best fruits for maintaining overall health. It is also very good for skin. Both raw and ripe papaya is used in different skin products especially fruit facial masks. Active enzyme papain of papaya is a wonderful exfoliant and is capable of removing dead cells from skin layers and maintaining the natural skin color.

Recipe:

Mash a few pieces of papaya and prepare a fine paste with slightly thick consistency.
Add 2 tbsp. honey to it and mix well.
Apply the paste on affected area and leave for 20-30 minutes.
Wash off with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Follow the process once in a week for 2 months and see the magic.

#9 Guava

Benefits: Guava is not only a delicious fruit. It is a wonderful natural remedy as well. Lycopene compound of guava is very good for melasma and is capable of reducing hyperpigmentation as well as blemishes. It can also exfoliate your skin and can remove the dead skin cells as well.

Recipe:

Cut 1 medium sized guava into small pieces.
Mash properly to prepare a fine paste.
Add a little amount of milk or glycerin.
Mix well and apply on the affected areas.
Wash off with fresh water after half an hour and pat dry.
It is better to repeat this process on the daily basis.

#10 Banana

Benefits: In addition to being a yummy and tasty fruit, banana is very good at promoting glowing skin. It contains moisture, vitamin E and C as well as potassium in large amounts. Due to its effective glowing capacity, it can reduce melasma in very quick time.

Recipe:

Mash one banana and make a fine paste.
Add a 1 tbsp. honey and mix well.
Apply on the affected area(s) and leave for 15 minutes.
Wash off with cold water and pat dry.
Repeat the process once in a day for 2 months.

#11 Ginseng

Benefits: Ginseng is very beneficial for skin in plenty of ways. Whether you are using its root or leaves, both are full of health related benefits. Due to the ant-inflammatory, anti-ageing and energy supporting properties of ginseng leaves, it can be a great idea to use ginseng for melasma.

Recipe:

Take a handful of fresh ginseng leaves and add in a glass of water.
Pour the water into a kettle or pan and boil it properly.
Keep aside for a while until water gets slightly colder.
Take out the leaves and mash to make fine paste.
Apply the paste on the affected areas and leave for 1 hour.
Wash off with the remained ginseng water.
Follow this process twice or thrice a week for 2 months.

#12 Grape Seed Extract

Benefits: Extract of grape seed is used in a lot of different skin and cosmetic related products thanks to its powerful anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties. Very strong detoxifying capacity of grape seed extract makes it one of the most potent home remedies for melasma.

Recipe:

Take a handful dry grape seed and make fine powder.
Add 2 tbsp. glycerin and 2 tbsp. honey.
Mix well to prepare fine paste.
Apply on the melasma affected skin and leave for 1 hour.
Wash off with fresh water and pat dry.
Repeat the process thrice in a week for 7-8 weeks.

#13 Apricot

Benefits: Apricot is a delicious fruit containing plenty of health-related benefits. It is also used in different types of skin and cosmetic products and is a wonderful scrub. Apricot is full of vitamin A, C, and E, and fatty acids. It can nourish your skin to a decent extent, reduce inflammation and can lighten the skin in case of melasma.

Recipe:

Cut 2 apricots and remove the seed.
Cut again into small pieces and smash properly.
Smash until it becomes a fine paste.
Add a little amount of milk and mix well.
Apply the mixture on the skin affected with melasma.
Wash off after half an hour and pat dry.
Repeat the process twice a week for 6 weeks.

#14 Sandalwood

Benefits: Using sandalwood powder and sandalwood oil is very beneficial for skin. There are numerous skin benefits of sandalwood. Essential oil present in sandalwood can enhance skin complexion, remove blemishes and is one of the best home remedies for melasma pigmentation.

Recipe:

Mix 2 tbsp. sandalwood powder, 1 tbsp. turmeric powder and 10 tbsp. whole milk.
Add some drops of lemon juice and mix well to make fine paste.
Apply the paste evenly on the melasma spots and rub in circular motion.
Wash off with lukewarm water containing little amount of rose water.
Pat dry with soft cloth.
Repeat the process 4 times a week for 4 weeks.

#15 Cucumber

Benefits:If you want to remove pigmentation, nothing can be as effective as cucumber. There is plenty of water in raw cucumber which makes it one of the best natural remedies for keeping your skin hydrated. Ascorbic acid is the active ingredient of cucumber and is proved very handy to treat most of the skin problems including acne, blemishes, and melasma.

Recipe:

Take a small sized or half large sized cucumber and cut into thin slices.
Cover in a soft cotton cloth and crush properly.
Squeeze the cloth to get the cucumber juice.
Keep aside the squeezed cucumber pieces.
Add 2 tbsp. rose water to cucumber juice and mix well.
Apply on the affected area using a cotton ball.
Wash off after half an hour and pat dry.
Repeat the process on alternate days for 2 months.
Dry the squeezed cucumber pieces under sunlight and use it as scrubber.

#16 Almond

Benefits: All of you are very well aware about the benefits of almonds. Almonds and almond oil are very good in most of the skin conditions. High protein content of almonds can lighten the skin. Vitamin E of almond is very effective to reduce the discoloration of skin. Using almonds for melasma is undoubtedly one of the best options.

Recipe:

Grind 10-12 almonds to make a fine powder.
Add 2-3 tbsp. honey and mix until you get a fine paste.
Smear the paste on melasma and rub for 5 minutes.
Leave it on for half an hour and then wash off with lukewarm water.
Repeat the process thrice in a week for 2 to 2 ½ months.

#17 Gotu Kola

Benefits: If you can get the Chinese herb Gotu Kola with ease, it might be the blessing for you. Gotu Kola is used in China and its neighbor countries for ages in different skin-care products. It is a powerful natural remedy for most of the skin problems like dark pigmentation, scars, spots, blemishes. You can use it to remove melasma spots on face.

Recipe:

Take a handful of dried Gotu Kola leaves and make a fine powder.
Add equal amount of glycerin and rose water and prepare a thick paste.
Apply the paste on affected areas and leave for 1 hour.
Wash off with fresh water and pat dry.
Keep applying this wonderful paste regularly to get rid of melasma forever.

#18 Yogurt

Benefits: Active ingredient of Yogurt, Lactic acid is very effective in conditioning the skin. It can make your skin soft and supple. Applying yogurt on the skin affected with melasma is one of the very good options.

Recipe:

Add a pinch of turmeric to two tbsp. yogurt.
Mix well and apply on the skin affected with melasma.
Leave for about 30 minutes and then wash off with fresh water.
Keep doing this twice a day for 3-4 weeks.

#19 Soy Milk

Benefits: Most of the topical creams used to treat melasma contain soy milk thanks to its ability to inhibit hyperpigmentation. Different constituents of soy milk are capable of lightening the skin and hence can be very effective for melasma.

Recipe:

Take a cotton pad and soak it in soy milk.
Dab gently on your face and leave it for an hour.
Wash off with lukewarm water and pat dry.
Repeat the process two times a day for a few weeks.

#20 Tomato

Benefits: Tomatoes contain large amount of lycopene- an antioxidant known for providing protection from sunlight. Tomatoes are very good for skin health and are known for producing great results in case of melasma as well.

To get rid of melasma forever, apply this natural ingredient regularly.

Recipe:

Cut two tomatoes into small pieces.
Gently smash to make a slightly thick paste.
Add 2-3 drops of lemon and mix well.
Apply on the melasma affected skin and leave for 20 minutes.
Wash off with fresh water and pat dry.
You can repeat the process twice a day for 3-4 weeks.

How to Prevent Melasma?

Wear sunscreen every time you step out of your home.
Drink enough water and other liquids to stay hydrated for whole day.
Take care of your skin and use very mild and gentle skincare products.
Try to avoid waxing as it causes inflammation and can aggravate melasma.
Have a balanced and nutritious diet consisting all types of vegetables and fruits.
Keep avoiding junk food as much as possible.
Try to maintain your mental stress as it is one of the primary causes behind most of the unhealthy conditions.
Keep your body fit and fine by doing physical exercise on daily basis.
Try to avoid strong medications like hydrocodone, buprenorphine, morphine etc. as much as possible.
Always try to take bath at least once in two days.
Wear soft and mild clothes as harsh clothes are also responsible for skin irritations and other skin problems.

If you ever used home remedies for melasma pigmentation removal, then share your views in comments.

Skin Whitening

How to Use Olive Oil for Skin Whitening – (Is it Good?) 9 DIY Methods

ByMoin Nex

It’s not another vegetable oil that can be used for culinary purpose. Olive oil benefits have been documented in religious books like The Holy Qur’an and in many ancient books. Here you’ll learn how to use olive oil for skin whitening and get rid of hyperpigmentation.

Since centuries this oil has been used to treat various health issues and skin ailments.

Mediterranean women use this oil as a moisturizing and cleansing agent. Exceptional vitamins and fatty acids packed in olive oil make it an ideal remedy for sensitive skin people.

Topical application of this oil will help to rejuvenate your skin, improve skin complexion, get rid of dark spots, and fade wrinkles.

Also read: 10 Home Remedies to Get Rid of Foreheads Wrinkles without Botox

If you want to use olive oil for skin complexion, then you must remember that it’s not an instant process and regular application is important to see positive results.

Benefits of Olive Oil for Glowing Skin (Why Olive Oil?)

High concentration of monounsaturated fatty acids in olive oil makes it the healthiest diet for Mediterranean people. Studies show that people who consume this oil have a lower risk of cardiovascular problems.

Along with its impeccable health benefits, olive oil can be used topically for face fairness, to make your skin supple and soft.

Is olive oil good for skin whitening?

Exfoliate your skin

When the increasing pollutants get accumulated over your skin, along with harmful UV rays they lead to dark skin. Nutrients in olive oil help to cleanse these piled impurities.

Polyphenols, flavonoids and vitamin E residing in this innate oil promotes cell regeneration, cleanse dead cells and lightens your skin.

Olive oil to get rid of hyperpigmentation

External and internal factors influence the excess production of melanin resulting in brown spots or dark complexion. Apart from this, skin ailments also leave scars that ruin your aesthetic appearance.

Vitamins and minerals packed in this innate oil can effectively help to improve your skin complexion.

Moisturize your skin

External and internal factors stripe natural oils from the skin, hydrating agents in olive oil penetrate deep into the skin and moisturize it from the outside.

Regular application of this oil will make your skin smooth and supple.

Antioxidants

Vitamin E and K in olive oil exhibit antioxidant activity, which fights free radicals and enhances cell regeneration. Free radicals damage skin cells and elasticity, resulting in fine lines or wrinkles. (1)

Anti-inflammatory agents

Most nutrients in this golden color oil show anti-inflammatory property, which reduces acne inflammation.

Dark Circles

Skin lightening properties housed in olive oil and lemon will improve your skin complexion.

Assorted nutrients in the oil help to promote elastin and collagen production.

Olive oil application will rejuvenate skin and reduce dark circles.

Treats Blackheads and Whiteheads

The nutritional ability of olive oil helps to cleanse blocked pores and remove blackheads. Regular massage will remove excess sebum accumulated on your skin and wipe blackheads.

Protects your skin from UV rays

Vitamin A and E residing in this oil protects from harmful UV rays and pollutants, which may damage your skin.

Repeated exposure to sunlight may lead to excess production of melanin and dark complexion. Vitamins residing in olive oil help to guard your fair skin.

Assorted nutrients in olive oil can improve your skin tone and its elasticity.

Unlike store available skin lightening products, olive oil is free from harmful chemicals that irritate your skin.

You can use olive oil for face whitening, because of A and E vitamins. They exhibit antioxidant property and improve cell generation.

To reap all exceptional nutrients, experts recommend using extra virgin olive oil for skin lightening and to make it supple. Because refined olive oil has chemical ingredients packed in it.

How to Use Olive Oil for Skin Whitening?

Get an extra virgin olive oil from local drug store and topically massage over prewashed face. Best time to apply this oil is before going to bed. So the nutrients will have enough time to react to skin ailments.

You can use a cotton swab to apply it to acne lesions as a spot treatment. Don’t expect instant results, natural remedies require continuous use. To make this natural oil more effective or suitable for your skin type, you’re free to mix any innate ingredient to it. (Until you’re not allergic to it)

Let’s check out few different olive oil face mask recipes.

Also read: Olive oil for stretch marks

#1 Olive Oil for Fair Skin

Everyone desires to have a glowing skin. To obtain this, most people run after cosmetic creams that are included with chemical ingredients. You can use olive oil for glowing skin, but to make it more effective, beauty experts recommend blending it with other home available ingredients.

Blend 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil with 1 tablespoon of raw honey and egg yolk.
Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
Wash your face with water and pat dry.
Evenly apply this face mask on the face and leave it to dry naturally for 15-20 minutes.
Rinse it off with lukewarm water.

#2 Olive Oil for Glowing Skin

Ingredients you need are honey, sugar, lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil.

To get a natural glow, you need to first wipe impurities accumulated over the skin. This olive oil face mask can help you exfoliate dead cells and dirt off the face.

Initially, wash your face with water and pat dry.
Mix olive oil, honey, and sugar in a clean bowl. Optionally add 1-2 drops of lemon juice.
Now, apply the face mask over the skin and smoothly start massaging in circular motion. After 15-20 minutes, rinse it off.

Lemon juice may irritate your sensitive skin, so limit its use or apply olive oil after this face mask treatment.

Also read: Sesame oil for skin whitening

#3 Lemon and Olive Oil for Skin Lightening

Acidic nature of lemon juice helps to remove impurities and lighten dark spots over the skin. Olive oil has hydrating properties that can moisturize and make your skin bright. Regular use of this face mask will fade dark spots and acne scars.

Initially, cook 1/2 cup of oatmeal and cool it. Now mix 1 tbsp of olive oil, few drops of lemon juice and 1 egg white to it.
Apply this face mask over prewashed face and leave it for 15 minutes.
Rinse it off and apply natural moisturizer like jojoba oil or coconut oil.

#4 Olive Oil for Hyperpigmentation

There are various factors that cause hyperpigmentation. External factors include excess exposure to UV rays, impurities and longer exposure to the computer screen.

Blend 1 tablespoon of oat flakes, 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon of raw milk.
Apply the obtained smooth paste over the prewashed face.
Leave it for 20 minutes, so that nutrients in the face mask penetrate deep into the skin.
Apart from this, include nutrient-rich diet and wear sunscreen cream while going out.

#5 Olive Oil and Cucumber

Like other natural home ingredients, cucumber is also packed with essential vitamins that your skin needs.

Cucumber is also packed with skin lightening abilities that can improve your skin complexion and lighten the appearance of scars.

Take 1 tsp of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of milk and 1 fresh cucumber.
Mash or grind cucumber slices into a smooth
Add olive oil and milk to the paste.
Mix thoroughly and apply it on the prewashed
Allow it to be on your skin from 15-20 minutes and then rinse it off with water.

#6 Oats, Milk and Olive Oil for Glowing Skin

Oats are prominent for exfoliating and cleansing your skin. Packed with exceptional vitamins and minerals, oats are beneficial for cosmetic purposes.

Lactic acid residing in milk is also renowned for its magical ability of whitening your skin.

Mix 1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil with 1 tbsp of oats and 1 tbsp of milk.
Wash your face and pat dry with soft cloth.
Apply the mixed paste on your face and allow it to dry naturally for 15 minutes.
Rinse it off with water.

Repeat this simple process twice per week.

#7 Glycerin and Olive Oil to Whiten Skin

Glycerin is a colorless and tasteless liquid that is packed with healing properties. Mixing it with olive oil will help to relive inflammation.

In this recipe, you can also add lemon juice. Bleaching property of lemon lightens the appearance of dark or brown spots.

Mix ½ tbsp of olive oil with ½ tbsp of glycerin.
Also, add 2-3 drops of lemon juice to the solution.
Apply this mask to prewashed face and leave it to dry naturally.
Rinse it off with water after 20 minutes.

#8 Olive Oil and Castor Oil for Skin Lightening

Omega-3 fatty acids residing in castor oil improves the elasticity of your skin and reduces pigmentation.

Ricinoleic acid is the main component in this viscous oil that helps to lighten your skin and make it look radiant.

Mix 1 teaspoon olive oil with 1 tsp of castor oil.
Optionally add few drops of lavender oil to above oil.
Apply this oil on your prewashed using a cotton ball or clean fingers.
Massage gently for 2 minutes.
Allow it to dry naturally for 20 minutes.

#9 Apple Cider Vinegar and Olive Oil

Glycol housed in ACV cleanse your skin and alpha hydroxy acids help to shed dead skin cells.

Assorted vitamins in vinegar help to lighten the appearance of your skin and make it radiant. Did you ever use apple cider vinegar for skin whitening? Check the below recipe.

Dilute ¼ cup of ACV with ¼ cup of water.
Also, add ½ cup of olive oil to it.
Stir well and apply the lotion on your face.
Allow to dry for 20-30 minutes and then rinse it off with water.
Store for future use.

How to Use Olive Oil for Face at Night?

All the DIY recipes listed above can be used at night.

Else, you can prepare your own night face mask cream with apple cider vinegar.

Mix ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil with ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar.
Dilute the solution with ¼ cup of distilled water.
Apply this natural face mask over the prewashed face with cotton ball.
Leave it dry naturally throughout the night.

Alternatively, dip a cotton ball in extra virgin olive oil and wipe it over dark areas of your face for skin whitening. You can also use this method to remove makeup.

Note: Patch test before applying olive oil to avoid an allergic reaction.

Where Can I Buy Olive Oil for Skin Whitening?

To reap all benefits listed above, beauty experts recommend extra virgin olive oil.

Check your local drug store or Buy it from Amazon.

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Skin Whitening

How to Use Aloe Vera for Hyperpigmentation – 7 DIY Recipes

ByMoin Nex

Melanin is a pigment, which is responsible for your skin color. Due to some external and internal factors melanin production increases resulting in dark spots. Here you’ll learn about benefits of aloe vera for hyperpigmentation.

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Melanocytes are responsible for producing melanin, which absorbs sunlight and protects your skin from harmful UV rays.

Damage to cells that produce melanin may result in excess or little melanin, which then paves the way for dark and white patches respectively. (1)

As mentioned above, sunlight, allergic reaction, certain medications, genetic, hormonal changes and skin ailments are held responsible for skin discoloration.

Pigmentation falls into three categories as mentioned below.

Brown spots (caused due to excess sunlight)
Melasma
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Is Aloe Vera Good for Hyperpigmentation?

According to researchers aloe vera is packed with an enzyme that can treat dark spots and make your skin glow.

Excellent thing is, it’s damn easy to prepare aloe vera for hyperpigmentation. All you must do is peel its leaf and start rubbing over affected areas.

Prior to that let’s check its nutrients.

Study states that topical application of aloe gel can protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Sticky nature of this home available gel will help to remove impurities and dead cells piled over the skin.
Gibberellins housed in aloe gel exhibits antibacterial and healing abilities, which help to fade the appearance of scars caused due to acne or eczema.
It’s rejuvenating property improves your skin texture.
Astringent agents housed in aloe vera cleanse your skin and shrink skin pores.
Glucomannan and gibberellins hormones present in aloe vera gel exhibit anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Also, they promote collagen production.
Its ability to absorb excess sebum over the skin helps to prevent clogging of skin pores.
Glycol-protein reduces inflammation associated skin ailments.
Antioxidant agents present in the gel help to reduce wrinkles, fine lines and restrain free radicals.
Apart from that it also improves blood circulation and stimulates cell regeneration.
Study also states that aloe vera gel binds moisture on the skin and nutrients in it promotes elastin production.

How to Use Aloe Vera for Hyperpigmentation?

To reap the nutritional benefits of aloe, cosmetic industries started manufacturing aloe vera gel; we don’t recommend these products because of the refined process they use. Take fresh aloe leaf and start topically rubbing over your skin. You can also make aloe vera face mask to apply on face.

Below mentioned are different recipes, go with the one that goes well with your skin.

#1 Aloe Vera and Seaweed

Packed with anti-inflammatory, moisturizing and cleansing abilities, seaweed is gaining some serious kudos in the cosmetic world.

B-complex vitamins residing in this marine extract can lighten the appearance of dark spots and improve your skin complexion.

Extract the seaweed juice from a small portion of fatty stems.
Mix 1 tablespoon of seaweed with 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel and ½ tablespoon of raw honey.
Mix thoroughly and apply the mask on pre-washed
Leave it to dry naturally for 20 minutes and then rinse it off with water.

#2 Honey and Aloe Vera Gel for Hyperpigmentation

Manuka honey is prominent for hydrating, cleansing, anti-inflammatory and healing abilities.

Peel the thick green skin of aloe vera leaf from all sides to obtain gel like substance.
Now wash your face or skin and smoothly rub aloe gel over pigmented skin at night and rinse it off with water in the morning.
Alternatively, mix 2 tbsp of blended aloe gel with 2 tbsp of manuka honey and apply over affected area. Repeat this process regularly.

#3 Aloe Vera and Apple Cider Vinegar

Alpha-hydroxy acids present in ACV helps in skin rejuvenating, exfoliation and to treat skin ailments. Glycol present in ACV can cleanse your skin and improve your skin texture.

Dilute 1 tablespoon of ACV with water.
Also, add 1 tablespoon of aloe gel and mix thoroughly.
Wash your face and pat dry using a soft cloth.
Apply the mask on your skin and rinse it off after 20 minutes.

#4 Aloe Vera Toner

This DIY recipe helps to cleanse dead cells, protect your skin from UV rays and also prevent pigmentation.

Prepare 1 cup of green tea by boiling water and by adding 2 tea bags.
Add 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel to prepared green tea and mix thoroughly.
Apply this toner on your face using a cotton ball.
Repeat this simple process regularly till you see positive results.
Optionally, you can also add rose water and lemon juice to above toner.

#5 Aloe Vera Gel and Tea Tree Oil

Nutrients in tea tree essential oil help to lighten the appearance of dark spots, acne scars and improve complexion.

Add few drops of tea tree EO with 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel.
Mix thoroughly and apply it over pre-washed
Rinse it off after 15-20 minutes with water.

Note: If you’re allergic to any of these ingredients then avoid mixing and just use aloe vera gel.

#6 Aloe Vera and Turmeric for Skin Hyperpigmentation

Prominent for its skin whitening properties, turmeric powder is packed with assorted nutrients. It exhibits antibacterial, antiseptic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Mix 2 teaspoon of aloe vera gel with 1 teaspoon of gram flour and ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder.
Mix thoroughly and apply it on pre-washed
Rinse it off with water after 15-20 minutes.

#7 Consumption of Aloe Vera Gel

Vitamins and minerals packed in aloe vera gel can benefit your overall health and skin. Mix this sticky gel with orange juice and drink it twice in a week.

Vitamin A, E, B, zinc, niacin and other nutrients in it help to thwart radicals and toxins inside your body that may damage your cell membrane.

Aloe Vera for Skin Whitening – Does it Work?

First, what is skin whitening?

It’s a simple process to remove higher concentration of melanin and provide even skin complexion, also known as skin lightening or skin bleaching. Most people turn to chemical ingredients when they hear about this process. Yes, there are many pricey products, which has no or minimum side-effects with an excellent effect over the skin. But, if you’re like those who’d like to pamper your skin and use natural remedies, then aloe vera stands first in the aisle.

Secret nutritional profile of aloe vera includes Lignin that hydrates your skin, anthraquinone, and amino acids, which helps to shed dead cells and enhances regeneration of new cells. It easily gets absorbed by your skin as soon as you apply it. (2)

It’s anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties keeps skin allergies at bay. Antioxidant agents housed in aloe gel tightens the skin, thwarts free radicals and reduces premature aging signs.

How to Use Aloe Vera for Skin Whitening?

Topically apply aloe vera face mask regularly.
Alternatively, you can directly peel the fresh aloe leaf and smoothly rub over face or skin.
Other natural ingredients like cucumber or honey can be added to blended aloe gel.
Many people are not aware of this but you can consume aloe vera gel, directly swallow the gel or blend it with any citrus fruit juice. This way it’s beneficial for both health and skin.

Conclusion

Assorted properties in aloe vera gel can treat chronic skin diseases. Antioxidant and anti bacterial agents packed in aloe gel are enough to make your skin radiant and supple. Directly apply the fresh gel over affected area or make your own face mask. Regular application is important for fast recovery.

Did you ever use aloe vera gel for hyperpigmentation? Share your experience with us.

Face Masks

Turmeric Face Pack for Glowing Skin

ByMoin Nex

turmeric and honey face pack for glowing skin

Asians have been using turmeric for face from centuries. It has got some special importance in marriage ceremonies. Renowned for its exceptional anti-inflammatory properties, as an India first thing strikes me when I get injured is turmeric powder.

Women, here in India are known to use turmeric face pack/mask for glowing skin. Mostly Hindus use it as a ritual. Now after scientific research, it has been proved that out grannies who were extolling benefits of turmeric face mask aren’t telling tails.

[Jump to: Face Mask Recipes]

Benefits of Turmeric Face Mask (Nutritional Profile)

From hundreds of years Indians used turmeric as a spice and medical herb. Anyhow, westerns aren’t aware of its benefits.

Research concludes that turmeric contains a compound known as curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory effect and is antioxidant agent.
Acne or pimples are mainly caused due to inflammation. (1) Anti-inflammatory properties in turmeric face pack help to reduce pimples and also fade acne scars. Anti-inflammatory affect of curcumin is as strong as drugs.
Antioxidant agents in this powder, not only thwarts free radicals but increases or boosts antioxidant capability of your body. (You can swallow it, like Thandie Newton)
Assorted properties in turmeric powder removes dark spots and treats hyperpigmentation.
As mentioned, historically it has been used to treat minor cuts and injuries because of its antiseptic and antibiotic properties. (2)

DIY Turmeric Face Mask Recipes

Powder raw turmeric (or get turmeric powder) and pour rosewater to it. After mixing it thoroughly topically apply over the face, avoid eye area. Then wipe it off with warm cloth. Anyhow, you can try adding different natural remedies to it.

1. Turmeric with Honey for Face

turmeric and honey face mask

Things you’ll need

Turmeric powder -1 tbsp
Raw honey – 1 tbsp
Milk – 1 tbsp

Mix all ingredients in required quantity. Milk is used to make the paste; you can add flour to make it thick, in case if you poured excess milk.

Prepare your face

Turmeric stains, so wear loose clothes or T-shirt that you’re not too attached to. Wash your face or cleanse it, remove the make-up.
Also band your hair and pat dry your face with soft cloth.

Turmeric face mask application

Apply the face mask evenly over face, avoid eye area but if you’ve dark circles, then apply it under eyes.
Leave it for about 15-20 minutes, so curcumin start affecting your face.
When the face pack is dry, wipe it off using unused warm cloth.
Don’t worry if you see stain over face, it fades in few hours.
After face mask application, topically apply any natural moisturizer.

Also read: Honey and Lemon Face Mask

2. Neem and Turmeric Face Pack

Neem is a tree and its bark, leaves and seeds are used to make medicine. (3) Regularly using neem water over acne blemishes will treat them and also fade scars. Properties in neem help to treat hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, dark circles and psoriasis.

Things you’ll need

Neem leaves paste – 1 tbsp
Turmeric powder -1 tbsp
Honey – 1 tbsp
Sandalwood powder -1 tbsp (for acne scars)
Neem water

Procedure

Initially mix sandalwood powder and turmeric powder in a bowl. Then add neem paste and honey. To make smooth paste, you can add neem water. Apply it on prewashed face and wipe it with warm cloth after 15-20 minutes.

3. Turmeric and Sandalwood Face Pack for Acne Scars

Assorted properties like antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent and healing agents are housed in sandalwood powder. It’s claimed to treat acne and fade acne scars.

Things you’ll need

Sandalwood powder – 1 tbsp
Turmeric powder – 3 pinches
Milk – 1-2 tbsp

Procedure

Just like above mentioned turmeric face masks, mix all ingredients and apply it over prewashed face. Apply it when the skin is still damp. Rinse it off with water or wipe it with cloth, then apply moisturizing cream.

4. Turmeric and Milk

Things you’ll need

Milk powder – 1 tbsp
Turmeric powder – 1 tbsp
Rose water – required amount
Yogurt or oats – 2 tbsp

Procedure

Mix oats with milk powder in a bowl, then add turmeric powder. Pour rosewater in required amount. After mixing it thoroughly topically apply over face. Alternatively, you can add sandalwood powder. Rinse it off after 15 minutes. If you’ve dry skin, then use jojoba oil post application.

5. Turmeric and Olive oil Mask for Skin Whitening

turmeric and olive oil face pack — flickr.com/maya83

Things you’ll need

Turmeric powder – 1 tbsp
Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Flour – 2 tbsp

Procedure

If you’ve oily skin then replace olive oil with yogurt.
Mix listed ingredients in required amount and apply the face mask topically over cleansed face.
Leave it for about 15 minutes, and then rinse it off with water.
After washing, when the skin is still damp apply moisturizer.

6. Turmeric Face Pack for Fairness

Things you’ll need

Turmeric powder – 1/4 tbsp
Gram flour – 4 tbsp
Milk

Procedure

Gram flour or besan is used to remove oiliness and to fight dark spots. Here in this face pack it’s used for skin lightening. Take gram flour and mix it with turmeric powder in a bowl. To make sticky thick paste, add milk. When you obtained fine paste apply it over your face.

Rinse it off after 15 minutes. Regular application is recommended to obtain fairness.

7. Turmeric and Yogurt

Known as a delicious and healthy food, yogurt can be added to your skin care regimen. Renowned for its moisturizing agents, yogurt can effectively hydrate and refrain itching. Antibacterial and anti-fungal properties residing in yogurt will help you thwart infectious bacteria like P.acnes.

Add some olive oil to yogurt and it turns out into an anti-aging face mask. Apart from enhancing healthy skin, yogurt can be used to fasten the healing of minor burns.

Along with turmeric, which is packed with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, yogurt face mask/pack will effectively treat acne; fade wrinkles and helps in skin whitening.

Take 1/2 tbsp of turmeric powder in a clean bowl and add 2-3 tbsp of yogurt.
Mix the ingredients well using spoon.
Before applying this mask wash your face and pat dry.
Now, topically apply the mixed turmeric and yogurt face mask over the face.
After 15 minutes rinse it off.

Also read: Turmeric for Stretch Marks

Bonus: Manuka Honey and Turmeric Face Mask for Acne and Acne Scars

Unlike normal honey, manuka honey is packed with exceptional properties. Yes it’s expensive compared to other types of honey, but you’ll get for what you paid. Well known for treat acne and acne scars.

Things you’ll need

Turmeric powder – 1/4 tbsp
Manuka honey – 1 tbsp

Procedure

You’re free to add other innate ingredients to this face mask. Mix it thoroughly and keep aside. Now, prepare your face by cleansing it with warm water or exposure to steam and pat dry with soft cloth. Then evenly apply manuka honey and turmeric face pack over skin. Don’t press pimples, smoothly massage over the skin.

Leave it for about 20 minutes and wash it off. If you see stains over face, take warm cloth and remove stains. Follow with moisturizer.

As you can see there are various combinations you can use in turmeric face pack/mask. Share your favorite ingredients in comments.