Being a beauty writer has its own perks — mainly in the form of tons and tons of ‘free’ beauty products and access to some exclusive events, trend reports and brand launches. Plus, being a trusted voice in the beauty space comes with an array of beauty-related queries that are constantly posed to you. But, the one question that pops up the most and I mean constantly has got to be, “what is pigmentation?” and “ how can I deal with pigmentation?”. So, here I am breaking down every little detail about pigmentation. But first, what is pigmentation? It can be described as dark spots and discoloration on your face and body which is due to an overproduction of melanin. Melanin is a brown pigment that gives color to your skin and hair. To tackle pigmentation head on it’s vital to understand its culprits. Here are some reasons for pigmentation on your face. Plus, some home remedies and products that can help you treat them. Go on, take notes…
Reasons For Pigmentation On Your Face
Now that you understand what pigmentation is, find out the main factors that contribute to discoloration and dark spots on your skin
Give Me Some Sunshine? Ummm… No Thanks!
One of the widely known reasons for pigmentation on the face is sun exposure! So, don’t skip the SPF, rain or shine. When your skin is exposed to UV rays, it loses its capacity to regulate the production of melanin. This overproduction of melanin results in pigmented patches on the skin. Lifelong exposure to the sun can also cause signs of premature ageing, dark spots being the first ones to appear. Plus, experts believe excess exposure to blue light from computer and phone screens can also lead to pigmentation.
Blame Your Zits
Pigmentation can also be a repercussion of inflamed skin. When your skin is inflamed with acne or eczema, it tends to produce darker spots after healing. It can also occur after facial treatments like laser and is mostly common in darker skin tones (P.S you are more prone to dark spots if you are in the habit of picking your acne.)
Your Health Might Be Sending A Message
Pigmentation can occur due to some underlying body triggers like pregnancy, menopause, thyroid condition or hormonal fluctuations. Moreover, one of the lesser-known reasons for pigmentation is genetics. If your parents have dark spots on their skin, you are more likely to get them too.
How To Get Rid Of Pigmentation?
Before you ask how to get rid of pigmentation, you must know that treating this condition is a long process. You need to be consistent with the treatment you choose and know that it won’t disappear overnight. To start with, here are a few home remedies for pigmentation that you can take note off
Lemon
Mix one tablespoon of lemon juice and one teaspoon of honey. Apply it to your dark spots and discoloration for 15 minutes. Rinse and pat dry. If you apply it during the day, follow it up with sunscreen.
Lemon contains bleaching properties and is an effective ingredient to lighten the skin and remove dark spots. Experts believe it also works to repair skin damage and fight signs of premature ageing. However, you must be careful while using lemon as its pH value is 2 which can irritate the skin. Also,if you have sensitive skin, it is best to do a patch test.
Aloe vera
Extract aloe vera juice from the aloe leaf or take a teaspoon of pure aloe vera gel. Apply it to your skin and leave it overnight. Wash it off the next morning.
Aloe vera can help fade dark spots like the best creams for pigmentation if used consistently. It contains natural chemicals like aloin and aloesin which is known to be a natural depigmenting agent. It also accelerates the process of cell renewal which helps in replacing the pigmented cells.
Tomato
Slice one ripe tomato and rub it on the affected area. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes and wash it off with lukewarm water. Pat dry and apply moisturiser. If your skin is dry, club it with curd to make this home remedy for pigmentation, hydrating and nourishing.
Citrus fruits like tomatoes contain free radicals which are known to reduce dark spots and treat pigmentation. It also contains antioxidants, lycopene and other nutrients that have natural skin-lightening and bleaching properties.
Potato
Cut a raw potato in half and dip the sliced part in water before rubbing it on the affected area. Wash off with warm water. You can alternately apply potato juice to your face and leave for 15 minutes.
A popular vegetable among all age groups, potatoes are known for their anti-pigmentation properties. It contains skin bleaching enzymes, Vitamin C and other nutrients which work best for lightening dark circles, tans and blemishes.
Best Creams For Pigmentation You Must Try
If ‘how to get rid of pigmentation’ is a constant on your search engine bars, and home remedies are doing you no good, I have something for you. Here are some pigmentation removal creams that can help you defeat them.
Suitable for all skin types, this pigmentation removal cream is researched and formulated by dermatologists. Kaya Pigmentation Reducing Complex, with Azelaic & Phytic Acid for all skin types provides intense hydration, and visibly reduces dark spots and tanning. One of the best creams for pigmentation, this cream is known to deliver results in just two weeks.
Known to deliver glowing and moisturised skin, Dot & Key Vitamin C + E Super Bright Glow Moisturizer, Fades Pigmentation and Dark Spots is a non-comedogenic formula. It contains vitamin E, shea butter and 3 different types of Vitamin C. It increases skin brightness, fades off dark spots and pigmentation and promotes collagen production.
This pigmentation removal cream contains niacinamide, zinc and alpha arbutin that brightens skin and induces an even skin tone. Nykaa SKINRX 10% Niacinamide Face Serum For Dark Spots, Blemishes, Pigmentation with 1% Zinc fades blemishes, and acne marks, giving your brighter skin. Pour 2-3 drops on your palms, pat it in your neck and face and lightly massage to help it absorb.
Formulated with a high concentration of free acids, The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution exfoliates the skin’s topmost surface for an even brighter appearance. It contains AHA and BHA solutions that fight blemishes and the appearance of skin texture for brighter skin. Do not leave it on your skin for more than 10 minutes and avoid using it on sensitive, peeling or compromised skin.
