DARK SPOTS OR PIGMENTATION ON FACE AND BODY- CAUSE, REMEDIES TO TREAT DARK SPOTS
Every problem has a root cause, and it's essential to get to the bottom of the condition to treat it. So, let's begin by understanding why your skin develops dark spots.
WHAT CAUSES DARK SPOTS ON THE FACE AND BODY
You may have heard about a natural pigment called melanin that present in the skin. Dark spots are caused when certain parts of the skin produce more melanin than the other ares.
There are several reasons that can cause dark spots. Some of the most common reasons behind dark spots are discussed below:
Sun Exposure:
Skin reacts to sunlight by producing more melanin. Getting too much sun is a common cause of dark spots. Freckles, sun spots, solar lengtigines, or liver spots are the most common type of pigmentation that can be developed due to exposure to the sun.
Diabetes:
Diabetes can also cause certain areas of the skin to produce melanin, leading to dark patches.
Hormonal Changes:
Hormonal changes can be a leading cause of skin pigmentation, especially for women. Melasma is a type of skin pigmentation that appears in the form of dark patches, usually on the cheeks or forehead. This condition is prevalent after pregnancy.
Inflammation:
Dark spots may also occur after skin inflammation or injuries to the skin. These can be caused by acne or eczema.
Side Effects Of Medication:
Certain medications can cause specific side effects, such as skin pigmentation and dark spots. NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs produce the most common reactions.
Irritation Due To Certain Products:
Sometime, the use of certain products like perfumes or certain hair products can cause skin irritation, causing dark spots to appear on the skin.
HOW TO GET RID OF DARK SPOTS
While we all want quick solutions to our skin problems, it's not possible to remove dark spots from the face overnight. There are, however, some things you can do to get rid of them quickly.
HOME REMEDIES TO TREAT DARK SPOTS OR PIGMENTATION
1. Sandalwood
Sandalwood is one of the effective ingredients for removing dark spots on the face. It contains natural oil that can help cleanse dark spots naturally. It can even make your skin look healthy and radiant.
How:
◾Mix 1 tablespoon of sandalwood powder with 1 tablespoon of glycerine and 3 tablespoons of rose water/milk/honey.
◾Then Apply it as a face mask, focusing on the areas with dark spots.
◾Leave it on for 20-30 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water.
◾Repeat twice or thrice times a week.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric is able to remove black spots on your face and nose. It can repair free redical damage and reduce skin pigmentation, also brighten skin tone. It is also effective on spots due to ageing of the skin.
How:
◾Combine 2 teaspoons of turmeric with curd and besan or add 2 teaspoons of turmeric with a little milk and lemon juice and make a thick paste out of it.
◾Apply it on the skin as a face pack.
◾Leave it for few minutes and wash off with lukewarm water.
OR
◾Combine 1 tablespoon of turmeric with 2 tablespoons of rice water and 2 tablespoons of flour.
◾Make a paste and apply on the dark spots.
◾Leave on for 20 minutes and then rinse off with lukewarm water.
◾Finish off with your favourite moisturizer.
3. Papaya
Papaya contains papain, an enzyme that able to eliminate black spots and brighten the skin. The cleansing properties help cleanse the skin from dirt and protect the skin from damage caused by exposure to sunlight.
How:
◾Grate the green papaya and add lime juice to it.
◾Apply this mixture to the black spots on the face.
◾Leave for 15 minutes then wash off with lukewarm water.
◾Repeat twice a week.
◾You can also use papaya skin as an excellent scrub for the treatment of knees and elbows.
4. Buttermilk
Buttermilk can be very refreshing to drink especially in the summer. But, it can also be used to treat dark spots.
How:
◾Apply buttermilk on the dark spots using a cotton ball.
◾Leave for 20 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm.
◾If you have oily or acne-prone skin, add a little bit of lemon juice to the buttermilk.
5. Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is rich in lycopene that protects the skin from sun damage.
How:
◾Apply tomato juice on the skin for 20 minutes and then wash off with lukewarm water.
6. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is a miracle ingredient for all your skin problems.
How:
◾Apply aloe vera juice or natural aloe vera gel directly to the dark spots.
◾Keep for 30 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.
◾Do it every morning and evening.
◾You can also leave it on your face overnight.
7. Lemon
Lemon is rich in vitamin C being the most common natural ingredient used for dark spots.
How:
◾Squeeze the lemon into a bowl and add equal parts of water or rose water, as applying without diluting might result in irritation.
◾Use a cotton ball to apply the mixture directly to the dark spots.
◾If your face has any cuts, dry skin patches or bruises, make sure you avoid them while applying lemon on your skin.
8. Red Onion Juice
Onion is rich in vitamin C which helps to treat dark spots, pigmentation mark, dark patches.
◾Make red onion juice by using juicer, blender or grated.
◾Dip a cotton ball in juice and apply directly to the dark spots.
◾Let it dry naturally then wash with lukewarm water.
OR
◾Combine 1 tablespoon of onion juice and 2 tablespoon of honey and apply on face.
◾Leave it for 20 mins then rinse off with lukewarm water.
◾If you have oily skin, add a few drops of vinegar to the solution.
9. Almond
Almonds are rich in vitamin E, antioxidants and healthy fats. Help to keep the skin clean and smooth. It also helps to brighten the skin while eliminating black spots.
How:
◾Soak 8-10 almonds in milk, leave them overnight.
◾Next day peel the skin and grind the almonds.
◾Add 1 teaspoon of sandalwood and 1 teaspoon of honey to it. Mix all the ingredients to make a mask paste.
◾Apply the paste on face and leave it for 30 minutes. Then rinse off with water.
◾Use this face mask once or twice a week.
OR
◾You can also use almond oil as facial massage to reduce the intensity of skin damage due to exposure to sunlight, improve skin tone and fade dark spots.
◾Massage twice a day.
10. Masoor Dal (Red Lentils)
Masoor dal face mask are a popular depigmentation treatment.
How:
◾Soak 50 grams of masoor dal overnight in a bowl.
◾Make fine paste using a blender.
◾Apply the paste on your face and keep it for 20 minutes then rinse off with cold water.
10. Green Tea Extract
Green tea has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
How:
◾Steep a green tea bag in boiled water for few minutes.
◾Remove it and rub it over the dark patches of your skin.
◾Placing green tea bags under your eyes can also remove dark circles.
11. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and antifugal substance helps in keeping your skin pores bacteria, oil and dust free.
How:
◾Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl.
◾Dip a cotton ball and apply directly on the dark spots.
◾Let it dry naturally then rinse off with lukewarm water.
◾If the mixture stink add more water to it.
12. Oat (Oatmeal)
Oatmeal powder is good for exfoliation. It contains saponins that act as natural cleanser. Oatmeal even softens, improves and rejuvenates the skin. It also able to cure skin damaged due to sunburn.
How:
◾Mash finely a cup of oatmeal and add 3-4 tablespoons of lemon juice to make a mask paste.
◾Apply paste on your skin and let it dry.
◾After the mask has dried, wash off with warm water.
◾If you find difficulty in cleansing the mask, use a clean cloth soaked in warm water to clean the mask from face.
◾Repeat once or twice a week.
Note:
It is vital that you take a conservative approach with these homemade remedies. Apply a small amount to your face and leave it on for a short amount of time, then go for larger amounts and longer times until your skin can handle it. If you feel any discomfort, stinging, or a burning sensation rinse off the mixture immediately with lukewarm water. While you are using these natural remedies to diminish dark spots do your very best to limit your sun exposure.
AYURVEDIC SKIN TREATMENT TO TREAT DARK SPOTS OR PIGMENTATION
There are traditional Ayurvedic ingredients as well that use the energy of herbs and oils to treat dark spots. Below are a few Ayurvedic treatments that you can regularly use if you are suffering from dark spots.
1. Kumkumadi Tailam
The legendary Kumkumadi oil is prescribed for dull, pigmented, damaged, and aging skin. "Kumkuma" refers to saffron which is the key ingredient of kumkumadi oil. In the ayruvedic texts, kumkumadi is referred to as "miracle oil" as it is meant to heal the skin from inside out.
How:
◾After cleansing, dampen your skin with Pure Rose water.
◾Take 3-4 drops of Kumkumadi oil on your palm, apply over the face with fingertips and gently massage onto the skin until fully absorbed.
◾Allow it to work overnight for the best results.
◾For nightly use only and should not be applied during the daytime.
2. Nalpamaradi Thailam
A powerful skin brightening and de-tanning treatment, it is a mix of Sesame oil, Vetiver, Turmeric, Gooseberry, and Indian Madder. The potent Turmeric present in the oil has antioxidant properties that repair pigmentation, uneven skin tone and marks.
How:
◾Gently massage it into the skin, ensuring the affected body parts are covered.
◾Leave it on for 30 minutes.
◾Then cleanse with a mild cleanser. ◾This oil may stain yellow due to ingredients such as turmeric; hence suitable precautions must be taken while using it.
3. Jwalini Oil
It contains herbs that are processed in pure coconut milk and sesame oil, an ideal treatment for clear skin. It is an excellent after-sun remedy that treats tan and hyperpigmentation. You can apply it all over your body. It’s suitable for all skin types but not ideal for those with acne-prone skin.
How:
◾Take an appropriate amount onto palms and massage gently into skin until well-absorbed.
◾Leave on for 30 minutes and wash off with a mild cleanser.
DEVELOP HEALTHY SKINCARE HABITS
As with any other problem, even with dark spots, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Here are some tips to prevent the appearance of dark spots on the skin:
◾Use sunscreen at all times. Good sun screening habits can prevent the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation. Make sure to wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 20. Reapply sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours.
◾Eat healthily! A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle can promote healthy skin and prevent the appearance of dark spots and other skin conditions. Eat fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamins and Minerals.
◾Taking nutritional supplements can be an excellent way to substitute for the deficiencies in your diet. Vitamin C supplements and other antioxidants can be bought over the counter.
◾Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses while under the sun to protect your skin further from sun damage.
Additional Tips:
1. If new spots appear on the skin, you may need to have your skin checked by a doctor, to ensure that it is not due to a more serious health condition.
2. Don't use too many makeup products that are loaded with chemicals.
3. Always clean the makeup of your face before going to bed.
4. Protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays by using a sunscreen.
5. Do not peel the skin if there are open sores on your skin.
6. Apply a good moisturizer regularly to prevent your skin from drying out.
7. Do a healthy diet that meets the needs of vitamins and minerals important for maintaining healthy skin.
8. Drink enough water every day, so that your body stays hydrated and as a bonus you will have soft and healthy skin.
CONCLUSION
In most cases, dark spots on the skin are not a cause of concern, except for cosmetic reasons. However, it is advised to see a doctor if any of the dark patches on the skin either itches, bleeds, tingles, or changes in colour or size as these may be indicators of skin cancer. It is also important to understand that all of the solutions mentioned above might not suit everyone. It is advisable to do a patch test first before applying anything to the face.
Thanks for taking time to visit my blog! Your comments are valuable and I always make sure to reply back. If you like my post please subscribe to my blog.
Follow me on: Facebook, Instagram
Join me on: Indian Beauty Angel
Diabetes:
Diabetes can also cause certain areas of the skin to produce melanin, leading to dark patches.
Hormonal Changes:
Hormonal changes can be a leading cause of skin pigmentation, especially for women. Melasma is a type of skin pigmentation that appears in the form of dark patches, usually on the cheeks or forehead. This condition is prevalent after pregnancy.
Inflammation:
Dark spots may also occur after skin inflammation or injuries to the skin. These can be caused by acne or eczema.
Side Effects Of Medication:
Certain medications can cause specific side effects, such as skin pigmentation and dark spots. NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs produce the most common reactions.
Irritation Due To Certain Products:
Sometime, the use of certain products like perfumes or certain hair products can cause skin irritation, causing dark spots to appear on the skin.
HOW TO GET RID OF DARK SPOTS
While we all want quick solutions to our skin problems, it's not possible to remove dark spots from the face overnight. There are, however, some things you can do to get rid of them quickly.
HOME REMEDIES TO TREAT DARK SPOTS OR PIGMENTATION
1. Sandalwood
Sandalwood is one of the effective ingredients for removing dark spots on the face. It contains natural oil that can help cleanse dark spots naturally. It can even make your skin look healthy and radiant.
How:
◾Mix 1 tablespoon of sandalwood powder with 1 tablespoon of glycerine and 3 tablespoons of rose water/milk/honey.
◾Then Apply it as a face mask, focusing on the areas with dark spots.
◾Leave it on for 20-30 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water.
◾Repeat twice or thrice times a week.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric is able to remove black spots on your face and nose. It can repair free redical damage and reduce skin pigmentation, also brighten skin tone. It is also effective on spots due to ageing of the skin.
How:
◾Combine 2 teaspoons of turmeric with curd and besan or add 2 teaspoons of turmeric with a little milk and lemon juice and make a thick paste out of it.
◾Apply it on the skin as a face pack.
◾Leave it for few minutes and wash off with lukewarm water.
OR
◾Combine 1 tablespoon of turmeric with 2 tablespoons of rice water and 2 tablespoons of flour.
◾Make a paste and apply on the dark spots.
◾Leave on for 20 minutes and then rinse off with lukewarm water.
◾Finish off with your favourite moisturizer.
3. Papaya
Papaya contains papain, an enzyme that able to eliminate black spots and brighten the skin. The cleansing properties help cleanse the skin from dirt and protect the skin from damage caused by exposure to sunlight.
How:
◾Grate the green papaya and add lime juice to it.
◾Apply this mixture to the black spots on the face.
◾Leave for 15 minutes then wash off with lukewarm water.
◾Repeat twice a week.
◾You can also use papaya skin as an excellent scrub for the treatment of knees and elbows.
4. Buttermilk
Buttermilk can be very refreshing to drink especially in the summer. But, it can also be used to treat dark spots.
How:
◾Apply buttermilk on the dark spots using a cotton ball.
◾Leave for 20 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm.
◾If you have oily or acne-prone skin, add a little bit of lemon juice to the buttermilk.
5. Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is rich in lycopene that protects the skin from sun damage.
How:
◾Apply tomato juice on the skin for 20 minutes and then wash off with lukewarm water.
6. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is a miracle ingredient for all your skin problems.
How:
◾Apply aloe vera juice or natural aloe vera gel directly to the dark spots.
◾Keep for 30 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.
◾Do it every morning and evening.
◾You can also leave it on your face overnight.
7. Lemon
Lemon is rich in vitamin C being the most common natural ingredient used for dark spots.
How:
◾Squeeze the lemon into a bowl and add equal parts of water or rose water, as applying without diluting might result in irritation.
◾Use a cotton ball to apply the mixture directly to the dark spots.
◾If your face has any cuts, dry skin patches or bruises, make sure you avoid them while applying lemon on your skin.
8. Red Onion Juice
Onion is rich in vitamin C which helps to treat dark spots, pigmentation mark, dark patches.
◾Make red onion juice by using juicer, blender or grated.
◾Dip a cotton ball in juice and apply directly to the dark spots.
◾Let it dry naturally then wash with lukewarm water.
OR
◾Combine 1 tablespoon of onion juice and 2 tablespoon of honey and apply on face.
◾Leave it for 20 mins then rinse off with lukewarm water.
◾If you have oily skin, add a few drops of vinegar to the solution.
9. Almond
Almonds are rich in vitamin E, antioxidants and healthy fats. Help to keep the skin clean and smooth. It also helps to brighten the skin while eliminating black spots.
How:
◾Soak 8-10 almonds in milk, leave them overnight.
◾Next day peel the skin and grind the almonds.
◾Add 1 teaspoon of sandalwood and 1 teaspoon of honey to it. Mix all the ingredients to make a mask paste.
◾Apply the paste on face and leave it for 30 minutes. Then rinse off with water.
◾Use this face mask once or twice a week.
OR
◾You can also use almond oil as facial massage to reduce the intensity of skin damage due to exposure to sunlight, improve skin tone and fade dark spots.
◾Massage twice a day.
10. Masoor Dal (Red Lentils)
Masoor dal face mask are a popular depigmentation treatment.
How:
◾Soak 50 grams of masoor dal overnight in a bowl.
◾Make fine paste using a blender.
◾Apply the paste on your face and keep it for 20 minutes then rinse off with cold water.
10. Green Tea Extract
Green tea has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
How:
◾Steep a green tea bag in boiled water for few minutes.
◾Remove it and rub it over the dark patches of your skin.
◾Placing green tea bags under your eyes can also remove dark circles.
11. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and antifugal substance helps in keeping your skin pores bacteria, oil and dust free.
How:
◾Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl.
◾Dip a cotton ball and apply directly on the dark spots.
◾Let it dry naturally then rinse off with lukewarm water.
◾If the mixture stink add more water to it.
12. Oat (Oatmeal)
Oatmeal powder is good for exfoliation. It contains saponins that act as natural cleanser. Oatmeal even softens, improves and rejuvenates the skin. It also able to cure skin damaged due to sunburn.
How:
◾Mash finely a cup of oatmeal and add 3-4 tablespoons of lemon juice to make a mask paste.
◾Apply paste on your skin and let it dry.
◾After the mask has dried, wash off with warm water.
◾If you find difficulty in cleansing the mask, use a clean cloth soaked in warm water to clean the mask from face.
◾Repeat once or twice a week.
Note:
It is vital that you take a conservative approach with these homemade remedies. Apply a small amount to your face and leave it on for a short amount of time, then go for larger amounts and longer times until your skin can handle it. If you feel any discomfort, stinging, or a burning sensation rinse off the mixture immediately with lukewarm water. While you are using these natural remedies to diminish dark spots do your very best to limit your sun exposure.
AYURVEDIC SKIN TREATMENT TO TREAT DARK SPOTS OR PIGMENTATION
There are traditional Ayurvedic ingredients as well that use the energy of herbs and oils to treat dark spots. Below are a few Ayurvedic treatments that you can regularly use if you are suffering from dark spots.
1. Kumkumadi Tailam
The legendary Kumkumadi oil is prescribed for dull, pigmented, damaged, and aging skin. "Kumkuma" refers to saffron which is the key ingredient of kumkumadi oil. In the ayruvedic texts, kumkumadi is referred to as "miracle oil" as it is meant to heal the skin from inside out.
How:
◾After cleansing, dampen your skin with Pure Rose water.
◾Take 3-4 drops of Kumkumadi oil on your palm, apply over the face with fingertips and gently massage onto the skin until fully absorbed.
◾Allow it to work overnight for the best results.
◾For nightly use only and should not be applied during the daytime.
2. Nalpamaradi Thailam
A powerful skin brightening and de-tanning treatment, it is a mix of Sesame oil, Vetiver, Turmeric, Gooseberry, and Indian Madder. The potent Turmeric present in the oil has antioxidant properties that repair pigmentation, uneven skin tone and marks.
How:
◾Gently massage it into the skin, ensuring the affected body parts are covered.
◾Leave it on for 30 minutes.
◾Then cleanse with a mild cleanser. ◾This oil may stain yellow due to ingredients such as turmeric; hence suitable precautions must be taken while using it.
3. Jwalini Oil
It contains herbs that are processed in pure coconut milk and sesame oil, an ideal treatment for clear skin. It is an excellent after-sun remedy that treats tan and hyperpigmentation. You can apply it all over your body. It’s suitable for all skin types but not ideal for those with acne-prone skin.
How:
◾Take an appropriate amount onto palms and massage gently into skin until well-absorbed.
◾Leave on for 30 minutes and wash off with a mild cleanser.
DEVELOP HEALTHY SKINCARE HABITS
As with any other problem, even with dark spots, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Here are some tips to prevent the appearance of dark spots on the skin:
◾Use sunscreen at all times. Good sun screening habits can prevent the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation. Make sure to wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 20. Reapply sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours.
◾Eat healthily! A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle can promote healthy skin and prevent the appearance of dark spots and other skin conditions. Eat fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamins and Minerals.
◾Taking nutritional supplements can be an excellent way to substitute for the deficiencies in your diet. Vitamin C supplements and other antioxidants can be bought over the counter.
◾Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses while under the sun to protect your skin further from sun damage.
Additional Tips:
1. If new spots appear on the skin, you may need to have your skin checked by a doctor, to ensure that it is not due to a more serious health condition.
2. Don't use too many makeup products that are loaded with chemicals.
3. Always clean the makeup of your face before going to bed.
4. Protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays by using a sunscreen.
5. Do not peel the skin if there are open sores on your skin.
6. Apply a good moisturizer regularly to prevent your skin from drying out.
7. Do a healthy diet that meets the needs of vitamins and minerals important for maintaining healthy skin.
8. Drink enough water every day, so that your body stays hydrated and as a bonus you will have soft and healthy skin.
CONCLUSION
In most cases, dark spots on the skin are not a cause of concern, except for cosmetic reasons. However, it is advised to see a doctor if any of the dark patches on the skin either itches, bleeds, tingles, or changes in colour or size as these may be indicators of skin cancer. It is also important to understand that all of the solutions mentioned above might not suit everyone. It is advisable to do a patch test first before applying anything to the face.
Thanks for taking time to visit my blog! Your comments are valuable and I always make sure to reply back. If you like my post please subscribe to my blog.
Follow me on: Facebook, Instagram
Join me on: Indian Beauty Angel
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