Overview Show
Pigmentation refers to the coloring of the skin. Skin pigmentation disorders cause changes to the color of your skin. Melanin is made by cells in the skin and is the pigment responsible for your skin’s color. Hyperpigmentation is a condition that causes your skin to darken. This can affect patches of your skin or your entire body. Age spots, also called liver spots, are a common type of hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is usually harmless but can sometimes be caused by an underlying medical condition. Certain medications can also cause your skin to darken. It’s more of a cosmetic issue for most people. There are several ways that you can treat hyperpigmentation at home. While several of the remedies we share here are anecdotal, some research suggests their main ingredients work on skin pigmentation. Apple cider vinegarApple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which research shows may lighten pigmentation. To use this remedy:
Aloe veraAloe vera contains aloin, a natural depigmenting compound that has been shown to lighten skin and work effectively as a nontoxic hyperpigmentation treatment, according to a 2012 study. To use:
Red onionRed onion (Allium cepa) extract is an ingredient in some commercially available skin- and scar-lightening creams. Research has found that the dried skin of red onions can effectively lighten skin. Look for creams for hyperpigmentation that contain Allium cepa and use as directed. Green tea extractResearch shows that green tea extract may have a depigmenting effect when applied to skin. You can purchase green tea extract and apply it as directed. Some websites suggest applying green tea bags to dark spots for a lightening effect, though there is no evidence to back this claim. If you’d like to give it a try, follow these steps:
Black tea waterAn animal study published in 2011 found that black tea water lightened dark spots on guinea pigs. The black tea water was applied twice a day, six days a week for four weeks. To try your own version of this hyperpigmentation treatment at home:
Licorice extractLicorice extract contains active ingredients that have been shown to lighten hyperpigmentation caused by melasma and sun exposure. Topical creams containing licorice extract are available over the counter. Use as directed on the packaging. MilkMilk, buttermilk, and even sour milk have all been shown to effectively lighten skin discoloration. Lactic acid is the ingredient responsible for this effect. To use any of these to treat pigmentation:
Tomato pasteA study published in The British Journal of Dermatology in 2011 found that tomato paste rich in lycopene protected the skin against short-term and long-term aspects of photo damage. Study participants consumed 55 grams of tomato paste in olive oil daily for 12 weeks. Orchid extractsOrchid extracts are just as effective as vitamin C hyperpigmentation remedies, according to research. Applying orchid-rich extracts to the skin for eight weeks improved the size and appearance of dark patches. You can buy skin products containing orchid extract, including masks, creams, and scrubs. Use as directed for the best results. Masoor dal (red lentils)Masoor dal face masks, which are made from red lentils, are popular as a hyperpigmentation treatment. Though there isn’t any evidence to back these claims, red lentils are rich in antioxidants that are known to be good for the skin. To make your own masoor dal mask:
Sun damage is the most common cause of skin pigmentation and usually affects the parts of the body that are most frequently exposed to the sun. Other causes include:
Hyperpigmentation is usually a cosmetic concern rather than a medical one. There are several home remedies for pigmentation that can help you lighten dark patches. Speak to your doctor if you’re concerned about your skin pigmentation or suspect that your skin discoloration is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication. Is apple cider vinegar good for hyperpigmentation?Improves hyperpigmentation: Green says the malic acid in apple cider vinegar may help clear up any hyperpigmentation issues like dark spots. "Malic acid is known for its ability to decrease the production of melanin," she says.
How long does it take for apple cider vinegar to remove dark spots?Take one part of apple cider vinegar and one part of onion juice and mix them. Dab a cotton pad into the solution and apply it directly onto the age spots. Leave this on the skin for a minimum of 30 minutes. Repeat this once a day for approximately six weeks, and you should begin to notice a gradual improvement.
What is the fastest way to remove hyperpigmentation?In this case, turning to dermatological procedures will work as the fastest way to get rid of hyperpigmentation. Chemical peels, laser therapy, microdermabrasion, or dermabrasion are all options that work similarly to rid skin of hyperpigmentation.
How I cured my hyperpigmentation naturally?Aloe vera has aloin, a natural depigmenting compound that works to lighten skin and is also effective as a nontoxic hyperpigmentation treatment, according to a 2012 study, mentioned on healthline.com. Apply pure aloe vera gel over the pigmented areas before going to bed. Rinse with warm water in the morning.
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