Melasma, which means skin hyperpigmentation, is a very common skin condition. It occurs on cheeks, forehead, chin and upper-lip area, and gives an ugly look. Melasma is thought to be the stimulation of melanocytes (cells in the epidermal layer of skin that produce a pigment called melanin) by the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone to produce more melanin pigments when the skin is exposed to sun. However, other factors also contribute to this problem, including hormonal changes in the body, excessive stress, toxins, thyroid problems and use of birth control pills.
Before you spend money on an expensive lotion or cream for removing your melasma, first try some natural home remedies for melasma that are easy to available, cheap in cost and without any side effects. These remedies will make the tone of your skin even, and help you to get back your flawless looks and confidence.
1. Sun Protection
Sun exposure being the chief cause of melasma, one should avoid standing under the sun for more than 15 minutes. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before you anticipate being out in the sun. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and consider getting one with added nutrients, like zinc, to benefit your skin. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and large sunglasses to provide your face with additional protection. If your melasma is especially bad, you might also want to consider wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants.
2. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an extremely popular treatment for various types of skin and hair problems. The apple cider vinegar is actually acidic in nature, the acidic makes it a powerful bleaching agent, which helps remove spots and make the skin much smoother and more radiant. Mix together equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and water, directly apply on the affected areas and allow it to air dry. Then wash with fresh water. Follow this remedy once daily.
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3. Lemon juice
Lemon juice is a natural skin lightener with superb astringent properties. Lemon juice contains high amounts of vitamin C that reduce all types of pigmentation. Apply the juice on the affected areas, lightly massage for a few seconds and leave it for 10 minutes. Then rinse off with lukewarm water. Follow this remedy twice daily and you should see improvement within three weeks. This remedies are not recommended for the people with sensitive skin.
4. Horseradish
Horseradish effectively reduces all sorts of skin discoloration, scars, blemishes and pigmentation on skin. Cut horseradish into slices and rub it directly on the affected skin. Cut horseradish into slices and apply it on the affected parts, leave it for at least 20 minutes. Then wash your face with lukewarm water. Repeat the process twice in a week. You can also mix yogurt with horseradish. This mixture will make the skin moisturized. Horseradish is easily available at grocery stores.
5. Sandalwood
Sandalwood is another effective skin-lightening ingredient that can enhance skin complexion and reduce the signs of melasma as well as other types of blemishes. You have to make a paste by adding rosewater to sandalwood. What you can do is: Make a paste by mixing sandalwood powder and rose water. Apply it on the affected area and leave it to dry for 20 minutes. Allow it to dry. Finally, rinse off with water. Use it 3-4 times a week.
6. Aloe Vera Gel
This remedy has been used as an effective melasma treatment. The amazing hydrating properties of aloe vera gel makes it a popular ingredient in many skin care products. It can alleviate hyperpigmentation and restore your skin’s original color. It can also remove dead skin cells and promote regeneration of new skin cells. Cut open an aloe vera leaf and extract the fresh gel. Apply it evenly on the affected skin and massage gently for 2 minutes. Wait for 20 minutes and then rinse it with warm water. Follow this remedy twice daily for a few weeks.
7. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is also one the most successful home remedies for melasma, it can remove brown spots on the face and dissolve dead skin cells to give you brighter, glowing skin. Here it is the simple procedure to form oatmeal mask: Blend the mashed oatmeal and honey to form a paste. Apply it on the affected area. Massage your skin in a rounded motion for 5 minutes, leave it on for 20 minutes and rub off with the mixture with lukewarm water. Do this thrice a week.
8. Cucumber
We are aware of the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables for weight loss, but certain vegetables are equally effective for the skin as well. Cucumber is one of the most easily available home remedies for melasma. The high water content of cucumber helps in hydrating the skin cells and lightening pigmented skin. What you can do is cut the cucumber into slices and apply it on the affected area. Leave it for 30 minutes and then wash your face with normal water. It also helps in treating other skin conditions as acne, rough and dry skin, dark circles and bags.
Note: If you experience skin irritation, darkening of the skin, or other skin-related problems after you begin treatment for melasma, contact your dermatologist to determine what should be done to stop these problems.
