Dark spots or skin pigmentation is one of the most common worries in India. And that’s because we’re more susceptible to skin pigmentation since brown skin has more natural pigment or melanin than Caucasians. One of the most common signs of ageing, even-toned skin is the need of the hour. While the beauty industry is full of actives & laser treatments to brighten skin and reduce pigmentation, we’re going to take note of potent Ayurvedic formulations and ingredients that have stood the test of time and are equally effective in reducing skin pigmentation.
But first, let’s discuss the possible causes of skin pigmentation, Let’s get started.
What Causes Pigmentation?
You may have heard about a natural pigment called melanin that’s present in the skin. Each of us has the same number of cells that produce melanin known as melanocytes. Yet the amount of melanin these cells produce varies from person to person and determines our skin colour.
However, due to certain external and internal factors, there can be an increase in melanin production, leading to skin pigmentation on the face or body . These include
1. Sun exposure
Long term exposure to UV rays (UVA and UVB) without sunscreen can cause sun damage including dark spots, a common form of pigmentation.
2. Hormonal Imbalances
Internal changes in the body such as a change in hormone levels, or conditions such PCOS, thyroid, pregnancy can cause skin pigmentation.
3. Melasma
Melasma is a very common worry for expecting or new mothers due to hormonal changes in the body. Blue or grey-brown patches usually found on the face are commonly known as melasma.This is more common between the ages of 20-40.
4. Post-inflammatory pigmentation (PIH)
Leftover marks caused by pimples, acne or even eczema in some cases is referred to as post-inflammatory pigmentation or PIH.
Other common causes of pigmentation include side effects of certain medicines and skin irritation.
Types of skin pigmentation
1. Dark spots
These are also known as age spots, sunspots and Solar lentigines.
2. Melasma
Usually caused by genetic predisposition, Melasma shows up on the face as large brown patches during or after pregnancy.
3. Post-inflammatory pigmentation
Commonly known as PIH, it’s your skin’s response to an injury like acne, friction and more.
Can skin pigmentation be reversed?
There are many Ayurvedic formulations and skin pigmentation creams with a variety of ingredients that do help reduce pigmentation, with regular usage. With time, cosmetic treatments have also progressed leaps and bounds and offer many solutions to pigmentation.
However, today, we will be discussing Ayurvedic ingredients that can, in time, reduce pigmentation.
Can Ayurvedic treatments cure skin pigmentation?
In Ayurveda, it is believed that an imbalance of Pitta and Vata, can cause skin pigmentation. So, apart from using skin pigmentation creams & oils , which we discuss shortly, it is important to live a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
Tips To Treat & Avoid Skin Pigmentation
- Plan your day keeping the circadian rhythms of your body: try to wake up early, meditate, eat healthy meals and sleep early.
- Dehydrated skin is more prone to skin pigmentation. So make sure you drink 8-10 glasses of water everyday.
- Make most of seasonal fruits, leafy green vegetables, legumes, and antioxidants that counter any free radical damage.
- Avoid sun exposure as much as possible. When outdoors, make most physical blocks like dark-colouredclothing, sunglasses and hats to avoid sun exposure. Make sure you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects you from sun damage and dark spots.
- Add a night cream that hydrates skin, reduces melanin production and imparts a natural glow will help you reduce hyperpigmentation.
Ayurvedic Treatments For Skin Pigmentation On Face & Body
Kumkumadi Oil
An Ayurvedic formulation prescribed for dull, pigmented and ageing skin, it is formulated with saffron, manjishtha, sandalwood and liquorice extracts. Not only does this reduce hyperpigmentation on the face, but also illuminates skin.
Nalpamaradi Thailam
Described as a natural skin illuminator in Ayurveda, Nalpamaradi Thailam is a miracle oil that brightens the complexion. With barks from four different species of Ficus trees, it also has ingredients like vetiver, turmeric and amla to help reduce pigmentation. Known for its detanning properties, Nalpamaradi Thailam can be used on the face and body.
Jwalini Oil
A traditional concoction of herbs, it uses a base of coconut milk and sesame oil, it is suitable to be applied on the face and body. Please note: Not ideal for those with acne-prone skin.
Ayurvedic Herbs For Pigmentation Treatment At Home
Other than these ready-to-use oil blends, bookmark these three wonderful ayurvedic herbs and DIY skin packs for skin brightening:
1. Manjistha
This is an Ayurvedic herb that is a blood purifier and can treat the skin from within. It is believed to be an effective pitta pacifier. You can consume it in the form of a capsule (after consulting an Ayurvedic doctor) or make a face pack with manjistha powder with honey.
2. Turmeric
Make most of turmeric’s brightening properties by applying wild turmeric (also known as kasturi manjal) and mixing it with cow’s milk for a DIY face pack for skin pigmentation. It also gives your skin a healthy, natural glow. Please note: apply sunscreen while stepping outdoors when using turmeric in your beauty routine.
3. Liquorice
Liquorice contains liquiritin which is an active compound that disperses the existing melanin on skin. You can combine a tablespoon of liquorice powder with half tablespoon of sandalwood powder with some raw milk to get an easy, homemade face pack that brightens skin. Use this thick pack twice a week for best results.
Can Ghee Be Used To Tackle Skin Pigmentation?
There are studies that suggest desi ghee is effective in treating skin pigmentation. Abundant in short-chain fatty acids and vitamins and antioxidants, ghee helps reduce oxidative stress and maintains healthy skin. This carotene also shields your skin from UV rays which are also known to cause pigmentation. While some of our products have ghee in it, you can also make your own DIY Face Pack. Here's how to use it: Combine 1-2 teaspoons of gram flour, amba haldi or kasturi manjal and a couple of drops of lemon juice. Mix it well and use it as a face pack to treat pigmentation on skin.
How to Use Liquorice Powder For Skin Pigmentation?
Here are some quick ways to use liquorice powder for different skin types:
For Oily skin: Take powdered orange peel with one tablespoon of liquorice powder and 5-6 drops of lemon juice. Mix it and use this paste for skin brightening for oily skin while also getting rid of excess oil.
For Dry skin: Mix honey and liquorice powder into a paste and use it as a hydrating face pack for dry skin that also helps brighten it.
For Normal skin: For normal skin, mix aloe vera gel and liquorice powder to make a soothing face pack that nourishes the skin and helps with skin brightening.
Home Remedies For Skin Pigmentation
Here are a few home remedies you can try for removing dark spots and dark patches:
1. Milk
Lactic acid is known to lighten patches and dark spots effectively. Soak a cotton pad in milk or yogurt and apply it over your face.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Simply apply apple cider vinegar mixed with water on your dark patches. Leave it for some time and wash it off. Acetic acid present in apple cider vinegar helps lighten skin pigmentation.
3. Red Onion
Take off the skin of the red onion and dry it naturally. Grind it into a powder and use it in combination with honey, or milk to apply it over your dark spots.
4. Tomato Juice
Rich in a substance called lycopene, tomato juice is proven to reverse the damage on skin caused by the sun. It is helpful to both apply it on your skin and make it a part of your diet.
5. Red lentils
Soak red lentils overnight and grind them into a paste in the morning with some water. Apply this paste as a face pack twice a week to get rid of pigmentation.
Foods to Avoid in Hyperpigmentation:
- Avoid having foods that are excessively sour, salty, and spicy, instead consume bitter, astringent and sweet taste food.
- Avoid consuming extremely hot or cold food. Eat your food at a warm temperature.
- Never eat stale food, eat freshly cooked meals as much as possible.
So now you know every skin brightening treatment, DIY remedies as well as Ayurvedic products that can help in treating dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Start including them in your skincare regime NOW to get the results ASAP!