5 Ways to Cure Hyperpigmentation Naturally

Care for your skin and get rid of pigmentation naturally, here’s how.

 We conceal and cover up the spots on our faces reminiscing the days of flawless skin. No one likes to have dull, patchy, and lifeless skin, the struggle of getting rid of those spots is real, especially with age. Hyperpigmentation, is unfortunately difficult to get rid of, however, there are several natural ways of treating hyperpigmentation at home. These remedies will help relieve effects of this skin problem.

What is Hyperpigmentation?

 Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition where patches of your skin appear darker than your natural skin tone. This happens due to the overproduction of brown pigment melanin – melanin is responsible for the colour of skin. Overproduction of melanin can make your skin appear with uneven patches or it can appear on your entire body. This condition is harmless but can be bothersome to many. Age Spots, also known as Liver Spots is a type of hyperpigmentation.

What causes Hyperpigmentation?

 There are several causes of hyperpigmentation that affect people of all skin type. Here are some common causes of hyperpigmentation.

• Sun – This is the most common cause of hyperpigmentation. The UV rays from the sun triggers overproduction of melanin as a way to defend skin damage. The lovely summer tan that you get? is the result of that extra melanin. However, when there is excess and frequent sun exposure then it can make your skin appear with sunspots.
• Skin Inflammation – Acne, cuts, scratching, bites, eczema… can cause inflammation. This triggers overproduction of melanin, to defend skin damage. And the scars caused by inflammation is then left behind as dark spots.
• Melasma – Also known as the “mask of pregnancy”, this commonly appears in women during pregnancy. Although it occurs in men as well. Sun overexposure, hormonal changes, stress, anxiety and genetics can cause melasma.
• Medication – Certain medicines and antibiotics can cause hyperpigmentation. It can also be due to Addison’s Disease – an adrenal glad disorder that boosts melanin production.

There are several ways to treat hyperpigmentation. Here are five natural ways that you can try at home.

1. Turmeric face mask

Turmeric is effective if your hyperpigmentation is caused by excessive sun exposure.

You will need –

1 tbsp of turmeric powder

1 tbsp of flour (rice or chickpea)

1 tbsp of oil (almond, olive, coconut)

1 tbsp of honey

Combine the ingredients to form thick paste. Apply this on the affected area or your face and leave it for 10-20 minutes, every day. Here you need to be patient because you will begin to notice the difference after four weeks of usage.

2. Apple cider Vinegar

Apple cider effectively reduces blemishes and dark spots. The acetic contain in this lighten the skin tone and has astringent properties that helps against open pores regulating the PH balance. This works wonders for oily skin type.

You will need –

1 cup of apple cider vinegar (good quality)

1 cup water

A handy spray-bottle

Combine apple cider vinegar and water in equal parts and pour it in the spray bottle. Spray it on the affected areas and leave it on for 2-3 minutes. Rinse it with water. Do this twice a day to get the desired results.

3. Aloe vera gel

Aloe vera is a versatile succulent with immense soothing properties for skin. It contains aloin, a compound that naturally depigments and lightens skin.

All you need is a pot of aloe vera plant. Extract the gel from a leaf and apply before going to bed. Leave it on for the night and rinse it with warm water the next morning. Repeat daily for 4-5 weeks to notice the difference.

4. Licorice extract/Mulethi face-pack

Licorice is loaded with nutrients and contains active ingredients that lighten hyperpigmentation caused by melasma.

You will need –

1 tbsp of licorice powder (you can buy it online)

1 tbsp of aloe vera gel (naturally extracted or store bought)

Combine the two to form thick paste and apply it on affected areas or your face. Leave it for 15-20 minutes and rinse your face with water. Use it twice a week and until the spots disappear.

5. Papaya face pack

Papaya is an excellent ingredient to clear out scars and pigmentation. It contains enzymes that acts as an exfoliator and promotes regeneration of new cells.

You will need –

¼ Ripe papaya

½ Banana

¼ Cucumber

Peel and blend the three ingredients to form a puree. Apply it all over your face up until your neck and leave it for 15-20 minutes. Rinse it with water. Use it once a week.

Hyperpigmentation takes a long of time to lighten, one has to be persistent and consistent with the remedies. Be patient and in few weeks, you will begin to notice the difference. Also, do not forget to use SPF 45 sunscreen regularly.