An example
of hyperpigmentation is melasma (also known as chloasma). This condition is
characterized by tan or brown patches, most commonly on the face. Melasma can
occur in pregnant women and is often called the "mask of pregnancy;"
however, men can also develop this condition. Melasma frequently goes away
after pregnancy. It can also be treated with certain prescription creams (such
as hydroquinone).
If you have
melasma, try to limit your exposure to sunlight. Use a sunscreen (SPF 30 or
higher) at all times, because sunlight will worsen your condition. Sunscreens
containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are best; although, sunscreens with
Parsol 1789 (avobenzone) will also provide good protection. Consult with your
doctor before treating the condition yourself
Remedies for Melasma
1. Lemon
Juice
Lemon juice
is the best way to cure melasma. Its acidic nature and vitamin C component
improve the discolorations and peel off the outer layer of the skin. Apply the
juice on the affected areas, lightly massage for a few seconds and leave it for
10 minutes. Then rinse off with lukewarm water.
- Mix lemon juice and raw honey in equal
proportion. Apply the mask and cover it with a warm towel for 15 minutes.
Then rinse off.
- A paste of turmeric powder and lemon
juice is also an effective remedy for hyper-pigmentation.
Daily use of
above remedies will rejuvenate your skin and slough off dark patches.
Note –
- Lemon juice can have adverse effects
on your skin if used for more than 20 minutes.
- The above remedies are not recommended
for the people with sensitive skin.
2.
Apricot Kernel Oil
Apricot
kernel oil nourishes your skin, improves your looks, soothes the inflammation,
and heals melasma. This oil is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and fatty acids.
3.
Oatmeal
Blend the
mashed oatmeal and honey to form a paste. Then spread the mixture on the
affected area of your face. Leave it for half an hour and rinse off with warm
water. It acts as a natural exfoliator and helps dissolve the dead cells from
the skin.
4. Castor
Oil
Damp a
cotton ball in the castor oil and apply it directly on the affected skin. For
the best results, leave it on for the whole night.
5.
Cucumber
Cucumber
hydrates your skin and keeps it glowing. Apply a slice of cucumber on the
pigmented skin and wash it off after 30 minutes. You can also include cucumber
in your meal.
6.
Sandalwood Powder and Rose Water
Make a paste
by mixing sandalwood powder and rose water. Apply it all over your face. Leave
it for 20 minutes. Then wash it off with lukewarm water. It will give you a
radiant complexion and diminish the tanning and hyper pigmentation.
- Combine an equal amount of lemon
juice, whole milk, turmeric, and sandalwood powder. Apply the mixture on
the affected area. Allow it to dry. Finally, rinse off with water. Use it
3-4 times a week.
7. Papaya
Mask
Papaya is
known for its versatile properties. It also works wonders for the skin. Take a
ripe papaya, mash it and apply the paste on the face. Leave it on for 15 to 20
minutes. Rinse off with cool water and apply moisturizer. Use this mask twice a
week.
- Blend half cup of mashed papaya with 2
tablespoons of honey. Apply this mask for 20 minutes.
Note – Wash
off immediately if you feel irritation.
8. Olive
Oil
Massage the
affected skin with olive oil for 2-3 minutes. Then put a hot towel on your
face. After the towel cools down, wipe away the excess oil and dead skin.
9. Grape
Seed Extract
Grapefruit
seed extract has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties that
detoxify your skin. It also contains high amount of potassium, iron,
calcium, vitamin and minerals. Continuous application of grapefruit seed
extract gives you unbelievable results.
Note –
- After its application, if you
experience some kind of reaction or skin irritation, discontinue its
usage.
- If you have an allergy from citrus
fruits, do not apply or consume grapefruit seed extract as it may cause an
adverse effect.
10. Onion
Juice and Apple Cider Vinegar
Take fresh
onion juice and mix it with apple cider vinegar in equal quantity. Use a cotton
pad to apply this mixture. Regular use of this remedy will effectively
reduce the dark spots of melasma.
11. Cocoa
Butter
Cocoa butter
has properties that lighten the dark skin complexion. Massage the affected skin
with cocoa butter to nourish your skin and prevent hyperpigmentation.
12.
Avocado and Honey Pack
Avocadoes
are a rich source of vitamin C, oleic acid and fatty acids. They have all the
ingredients for healing and rejuvenating the skin. On the other hand, honey has
bleaching properties. Mash an avocado and add 2 tsp of honey to it. Spread it
all over your face.
13.
Vinegar
Vinegar has
skin whitening properties and can be used for melasma treatment. Take water and
vinegar in equal proportion. Apply it all over your face and wash off after a
few minutes.
14. Honey
and Almond Mask
Honey and
almond have skin lightening elements. Grind some almonds and add honey to them.
Apply it all over your face and massage gently. Wash it off after 10 minutes.
- Alternatively, soak a handful of almonds in water overnight, peel them off and blend with milk or milk cream. Apply on the pigmented areas.
REMEMBER
- Stress is one of the major causes for
melasma, so it is recommended to take effective measures like meditation,
yoga and other exercises, in order to get rid of stress.
- Avoid exposure to sunlight.