4 Best Home Remedies For Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of some parts of the skin and nails. This makes the affected areas become darker than the general skin colour.
Hyperpigmentation can spread across different areas of the body or it can affect specific areas like the face or back of the hand. A typical example of hyperpigmentation is Melasma. Melasma is characterized by brown patches on the face and it’s common among pregnant women. Hyperpigmentation can affect people of any race or colour. It can affect one’s confidence (looking at the mirror with this condition can be disheartening).

Excessive increase in ‘melanin’ production is the major cause of hyperpigmentation. ‘Melanin’ is the substance that gives the skin, eyes and other parts of the body colour. Hormonal changes and health conditions like Addison’s disease (reduced action of the adrenal gland) can cause excessive production of this melanin. Other causes of hyperpigmentation include; sun, inflammation and skin conditions like acne, skin injuries and surgeries. Furthermore, birth control pills, some antibiotics and antimalarial drugs have been linked to hyperpigmentation.

How To Take Care Of Hyperpigmentation

Lemon: 

Lemon juice is an effective skin lightening substance that helps to treat hyperpigmentation. One of the active ingredients in lemon juice is vitamin C. Vitamin C has antioxidant and skin lightening properties. It is best to use freshly squeezed lemon juice.

How to apply: Dip a cotton ball into a freshly squeezed lemon juice and apply on the affected area. Leave for about 20 to 30 minutes. Then rinse off with warm water. Do once daily and preferably at night (it’s not good to expose the skin to sun after applying lemon juice). Do a spot test first to know if you are allergic or sensitive to lemon. Avoid applying lemon juice on open cuts on the skin.

Orange: 

Orange is another rich source of vitamin C. Vitamin C reduces the production of melanin in the skin thereby reducing hyperpigmentation. Orange also contains citric acid which is a strong exfoliator that removes dead skin cells. Regular consumption of orange helps to improve the smoothness of the skin.

How to apply: Rub a cut orange directly on the affected area and allow the juice to dry on the skin. Leave for one hour. Then wash off. It should be done once daily. Or you can use a cotton ball to apply fresh orange juice on the affected area.

Aloe vera gel: 

Aloe vera gel promotes reformation of new skin cells. It helps to lighten areas of the skin affected by hyperpigmentation. It also reduces excessive production of melanin. Aloe vera contains vitamins A, C and E which are antioxidants and are also very good for the skin. The synergic actions of vitamin A and C lightens the skin colour.

How to apply: Cut off the aloe vera leaf and squeeze out the jelly-like substance. Apply on the affected area. Apply aloe vera gel before going to bed and wash off in the morning.

Almonds: 

Almonds contain fatty acids and nutrients that help to remove traces of skin hyperpigmentation. Due to its level of efficacy in treating hyperpigmentation, one of its extract (mandelic acid) is usually used in making creams for treating hyperpigmentation.

How to apply: Soak almonds overnight and grind the following day. Mix with milk (which is another lightening agent) to form a paste. Apply every night before going to bed and wash off in the morning.

Important Tips

·         Hyperpigmentation can take time to heal. Applying the remedies consistently will help a lot.

·         Sunlight can worsen hyperpigmentation. Avoid excessive sun exposure.

·         Use sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.

·         Apply any of these remedies in small quantities first to confirm if you are sensitive to any.

·         Since hyperpigmentation can be a symptom of an underlying health issue, it’s advisable to visit your doctor.