Causes, Types and Natural Remedies

The effects of poor lifestyle and diet are first visible on our skin, resulting in problems like rashes, swelling, itching and hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation becomes a common problem with increasing age, in which certain areas of the skin become darker. It occurs when there is excessive production of a pigment called melanin in the skin. Melanin gives color to skin, hair and eyes. When melanin levels become unbalanced, it appears as dark spots, rashes or patches on the skin.

Types of hyperpigmentation

1. Melasma: It is often caused by hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or hormonal therapy, and appears as brown patches on the face.
2. Sunspots: Prolonged exposure to sun rays causes brown spots on the skin, which are also called age spots.
3. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: This happens when deep scars form on the skin after injury, irritation, acne or allergy.

Causes of hyperpigmentation

• Effect of sun rays: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays of the sun increases melanin production. With age, the problem of hyperpigmentation in the skin increases.
• Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes with age, especially during menopause, imbalance the production of melanin.
• Effect of increasing age: As we age, the skin becomes thinner and weaker, making pigmentation more visible.
• Impact of environment: Pollution and toxins affect skin pigments and its effect increases with age.
• Genetic problem: In some people, this problem is genetic, which becomes evident with age.

Natural Remedies for Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation can be treated naturally, but it requires patience and regularity. Here are some effective solutions:

• Aloe Vera: The aloesin compound present in aloe vera gel controls melanin production. Apply it directly on the affected area and leave it overnight, then wash it off with lukewarm water in the morning.
• Lemon and Honey: Lemon contains Vitamin C and natural bleaching properties, while honey provides moisture. Mix lemon juice and honey and apply for 10-15 minutes and wash.
• Turmeric: Curcumin present in turmeric is rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Make a mask by mixing turmeric powder with milk or curd and apply it for 15 minutes.
• Green Tea Extract: Green tea contains antioxidants, which help reduce hyperpigmentation. Cool the green tea bag and place it on the affected area.
• Potato Juice: Potato juice helps in enhancing the glow of the skin and removing blemishes. Grate raw potatoes, extract the juice and apply it directly on the affected area.
• Vitamin A: Break the Vitamin A capsule and apply the gel on the affected area. It repairs the skin and also provides moisture.

Other suggestions

• Use a sunscreen with SPF 30+ daily, whether you’re indoors or outdoors, to prevent pigmentation from forming.
• Drinking enough water helps repair skin cells.
• Regularly consume foods rich in vitamin C, vitamin A and antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables and nuts.

By adopting these measures you can reduce the problem of hyperpigmentation and get healthy, glowing skin.