The skin gets its color from a pigment called melanin. Skin pigmentation disorders include hyperpigmentation (dark skin patches on the skin) or hypopigmentation (light skin patches). Hyperpigmentation normally occurs when there’s an increased secretion of melanin, which is produced by special skin cells, melanocytes, in the lower epidermis.
Melasma (tan or brown patches)
Hyperpigmentation typically occurs as a result of excessive sun exposure. In other words, to protect the skin from this, melanin absorbs the harmful ultraviolet rays form the sun. But, while doing so, it may trigger appearance of freckles and age spots (liver spots). It may even make other darkened skin patches become even more prominent. This skin pigmentation disorder is more common in people with darker Asian, Mediterranean or African skin tones, especially after too much sun exposure.
CAUSES OF HYPERPIGMENTATION INCLUDE:
- PIH (Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation),
- Contraceptives,
- Estrogen (HRT),
- Pregnancy,
- Continual sun exposure,
- Acne,
- Razor bumps,
- Severe sunburn,
- Eczema,
- Chemical irritations,
- Electrolysis,
- Rashes,
- Abrasive scrubs,
- Some medications,
- Chicken pox,
- Picking,
- Scratching,
- Insect Bites,
- Skin trauma,
- Surgical procedures,
- Perfumes applied on sun-exposed areas.
*** It’s the harmful UV rays that affect melanin function thus triggering temporary or permanent skin discoloration including freckles, age and sun spots. Although these are most obvious on the face, they can actually appear on any part of the body that’s been sun-exposed.
*** Skin trauma such as scars, including surgery scars, can also lead to skin hyperpigmentation, so even when the scar reduces in appearance, the dark patch on the skin remains.
*** Melasma is a skin pigmentation disorder typical of pregnancy, though it can also appear in men. It’s commonly known as ‘the mask of pregnancy’ because these brown spots cover mostly the nose and cheeks. The condition isn’t serious and normally disappears on its own after pregnancy.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp. turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp. lemon juice
Directions:
- Mix both ingredients until well-blended.
- Apply the paste to the affected area.
- Leave it to act for 15 minutes or until it dries.
- Wash it off with cold water.
*** Do not expose your skin to the sun immediately afterwards!
The best time to use the treatment is before having a shower, preferably before bedtime.
For optimal results, you can do it in the morning too.
This natural remedy against skin discoloration is based on Ayurveda principles, the ancient Indian science of healing.
Lemon is a natural bleaching agent that stimulates skin exfoliation, while turmeric is a great anti-inflammatory agent aside from also being a natural skin whitener. Plus, turmeric can make your skin glow, which is all too familiar to the Indians.
If your skin is sensitive, dilute the lemon juice with water or use milk instead.
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