Getting rid of dark spots can be frustrating but not impossible and it starts with understanding what caused them in the first place. Dark spots, or hyperpigmentation, occur when your skin produces more melanin at a certain spot. On the other hand, melanin is the substance that gives skin its color. One factor that triggers excess melanin production is sun exposure. This article reveals natural ways to fade dark spots on your face.
Dark spots can also occur as a result of inflammation, hormonal changes (such as those experienced during pregnancy), and a reaction to skincare products. Using chemically processed ingredients to treat dark spots can sometimes do more harm than good, which is why some favor natural remedies. Although using ingredients from your kitchen can take a while to see improvement, they are often safer, healthier alternatives to getting rid of dark spots.
If you have persistent dark spots on your face and want to do something about them, you’re in luck. We’ve curated a list of everyday ingredients that are guaranteed to help you achieve clear, even, and glowy skin after consistent use. You can expect to see results within 4-6 weeks of using these beauty treatments and masks.
Here’s how to fade dark spots with DIY ingredients straight from your kitchen…
#1. Papaya magic
Papaya contains the enzyme papain which packs a punch when it comes to dealing with dark patches, like acne spots or dark elbows and knees. In addition, this fruit is a popular home remedy for melasma, a skin condition that causes dark, discolored patches.
To use, you will need half a papaya and some raw milk. Grate the fresh papaya and add four tablespoons of raw milk to form a smooth paste. Apply to your face for about 20 minutes and rinse it off using cold water. You can use this thrice a week to treat dark spots on the skin.
#2. Almond
Thanks to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, almonds can indeed work wonders on the skin when it comes to fading dark spots. It also contains retinol, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K which ensures you have overall healthy skin.
To make your DIY almond face mask, soak a handful of almonds overnight and peel off their skin the next morning. Then, crush the soaked almonds and grind them to make a smooth paste. Add raw milk to the paste and use a cotton ball to apply the mixture to the face or skin. Leave it for about 20 minutes before rinsing it with cold water. You can do this twice a week to see results.
#3. Aloe Vera gel
Aloe Vera is an exceptional healing agent that contains antioxidants, as well as Vitamins A, C, and E which help reduce spots and even out skin tone. It also contains aloin, a compound with melanocytic effects that can help clear out dark spots. It’s so easy that all you need is the Aloe Vera gel and cotton swabs.
To use, extract the gel from the leaf, whisk with a spoon, and apply it to the affected area with the cotton swab. You can also apply the aloe vera gel directly to the dark spots (without whisking) and leave for 20-30 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water.
#4. Orange peel
Orange peel contains Vitamin C which makes it an effective remedy for a number of skin problems. It also contains hesperidin — a skin-lightening agent that easily treats dark spots. To use, blend dried orange peel into powder form, mix with water, and apply on the affected areas using a cotton swab. Leave on for 15-20 minutes and rinse with warm water.
#5. Parsley leaves
Parsley leaf, popularly known in Africa as scent leaf, is a spice loaded with lightening properties that can also treat dark spots and other similar skin conditions. For use, blend the parsley leaves in a blender with lemon and apple cider vinegar and apply the mixture to the affected area. Leave on for 20-45 minutes, depending on severity, and rinse with lukewarm water.
#6. Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin which inhibits hyperpigmentation in the skin and naturally fades dark spots. It also contains antioxidants which play a big role in reducing the excess production of melanin. This makes it great for the treatment of dark spots. For use, mix the turmeric powder with a few drops of water to form a thick paste. Apply the mixture to the affected areas, leave for 20-25 minutes, then rinse off.
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