7 Natural Hyperpigmentation Remedies That Actually Work
Darker spots of skin are the hallmark of the common and unharmful condition known as hyperpigmentation. There is nothing to worry about unless there is an underlying cause, which might range from pregnancy to excessive sun exposure. You might be interested in learning how to get rid of hyperpigmentation if it appears on parts of your body that are exposed. You can attempt a lot of natural treatments for hyperpigmentation. Look at them down below!
How can hyperpigmentation occur?
When you have hyperpigmentation, certain areas of your skin turn darker than the rest of your skin. Additional melanin can produce brown, black, grey, red, or pink spots that are usually not harmful but can make people feel self-conscious. It can affect anyone's skin tone, but because darker skin tones naturally contain more melanin, it tends to afflict them more frequently. The three basic forms of hyperpigmentation are as follows:
1. Age spots: brown, tan, or black dots that are also known as liver spots.
2. Melasma: sizable areas of skin that are pigmented
3. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: darker skin areas or patches
Each type of hyperpigmentation is commonly found on the face but can affect other areas of the body as well, and they all have different causes.
What Is the Cause of Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation can be caused by a variety of factors. Age spots are most commonly found on the face and hands and appear on the skin as a result of excessive sun exposure. They can also be found on sun-exposed areas of the body and are more common in older adults or those who have been exposed to the sun for an extended period of time. Melasma, also known as the "pregnancy mask," is most commonly found on the forehead, face, and stomach. It is typically caused by pregnancy or the use of a birth control pill. Hyperpigmentation can also occur as a result of an inflammatory skin condition such as eczema or acne, which causes darkened spots or patches of skin.
In some cases, hyperpigmentation is a symptom of a more serious condition, such as hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, direct trauma from an accident, or cancer or cancer-related treatments, such as chemotherapy. Hyperpigmentation in and of itself is not harmful to the body; however, if there is an underlying condition, it may necessitate treatment.
4 Hyperpigmentation Signs and Symptoms
1. Patches of varying shades that are darker than your natural skin tone
2. Discolouration after inflammation or injury to the skin
3. Discoloured patches that turn darker after sun exposure
7 Natural Hyperpigmentation Remedies
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which may help to lighten pigmentation, acting as a mild chemical peel in some cases. It also contains polyphenols, which act as antioxidants and may protect the skin cells. Apply 1 part apple cider vinegar, 1 part water to the pigmented areas and leave on for 2 to 3 minutes. Rinse the area thoroughly with warm water and repeat twice daily. Stop this treatment at any sign of irritation.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera can help lighten pigmented skin over time. It contains aloin, a natural depigmenting compound that has been shown to lighten skin and work effectively as a nontoxic hyperpigmentation treatment. Apply pure aloe vera gel to affected areas before bedtime. Rinse using warm water the next morning and repeat daily.
3. SPF
Wearing sunscreen everyday is a must for everyone, but especially if you have hyperpigmentation. It’s essential you protect your skin from sun damage and further pigmentation. Apply sunscreen every morning, no matter if it’s sunny, raining or cloudy. Reapply as needed throughout the day and ensure it’s SPF 30 or higher.
4. Vitamin C
Vitamin C rich foods, such as grapefruit, lemon and papaya may be effective home remedies for hyperpigmentation. Applying them to the skin can help increase the antioxidants on the surface and lighten the cells over time. Combining vitamin C with other home remedies for hyperpigmentation has virtually no side effects and will likely increase its effectiveness.
4. Raised dark patches growing in size
5. Red Onion
Red onion can be a helpful skin whitening agent for some people. Isolates from red onion have been found to block the cell action that leads to excess pigmentation. It’s also an antioxidant and is an excellent source of vitamin C. Cut a red onion, take a slice and rub it on the affected areas of your skin. Let the onion juice rest on your skin for 10 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. You can also look for creams that contain Allium cepa.
6. Orchid Extract
Orchid extract has been found to be just as effective as vitamin C as a hyperpigmentation remedy. The magnesium within orchids helps to even out dark spots, reducing pigmentation and supporting the regeneration of skin cells. Use it for about 8 weeks to see results. You can find orchid extract in skin products like masks and creams.
7. Yogurt or Milk
Yogurt and milk both contain lactic acid, a common ingredient in chemical peels for the skin. Although it’s found in small quantities in these foods, it may still help with mild hyperpigmentation. Apply yogurt to the pigmented area, or soak a cotton ball in milk and apply it. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse the area thoroughly and apply moisturizer. Repeat the process two times a day.
If you’ve noticed hyperpigmentation on your skin, try out these home remedies to see if they work for you!