Let’s face it, hyper pigmentation, the darkened areas of your skin, is annoying. Countless products claim to treat it, but most are just full of chemicals. So why not use home remedies? While uneven skin tone is often harmless, it might make you feel insecure. You may even look tired or unhealthy. Plus, applying makeup can be a pain, thanks to the discoloration. Hyper pigmentation develops when your skin makes too much of a natural pigment called melanin. On the face, sun exposure is a major culprit. Pregnancy, Addison’s disease, acne, and birth control might also be to blame.
You can get prescription lightening creams from the dermatologist, which are effective but harsh.1 They contain hydroquinone, a bleaching agent that stops melanin production.2 Using natural remedies, however, will be much gentler on your skin and treat it well.
7 Natural Skin Treatment Options
1. Sugar For Uneven Skin Tone
Sugar doubles as an excellent exfoliator. It’ll slough away dead skin cells, which are jam-packed with melanin. By removing old skin, your face will look as good as new. Don’t forget to add your favorite oil. This will prevent dryness by adding back moisture. Coconut, grape seed, and olive oils are great ideas.
Directions
- Mix 1 tablespoon sugar with 5 to 10 drops oil.
- Apply on your face and scrub in circular motions.
- Wash off and pat dry.
2. Salt For Uneven Skin Tone
In food, salt gets a bad reputation, but it can work wonders on the skin! You can use different types of salt, like Himalayan and Epsom. Even ordinary table salt works. However, large granules might be too harsh for your skin. An easy solution is to run the salt granules through a food processor. To make a salt scrub, follow the instructions for a sugar scrub.
3. Baking Soda For Uneven Skin Tone
As a natural bleaching agent, baking soda is perfect for discoloration. It’ll remove dead skin, banish dirt, and lighten things up.
Directions
- Combine 1 teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water.
- Mix to form a paste.
- Massage onto your face for 15 to 20 seconds.
- Rinse off and pat dry. Do not leave it for too long as it might cause irritation.
4. Oats For Uneven Skin Tone
Oats will do away with old skin cells, leaving a soft and smooth layer. If the oats feel too rough, pulverize them in a food processor.
Directions
- Mix 1 tablespoon oatmeal with 1 tablespoon oil, honey, or aloe vera gel.
- Scrub onto your face in circular motions.
- Wipe off with a paper towel. Otherwise, it will clog your sink.
- Wash off the remaining residue and pat dry.
5. Papaya For Uneven Skin Tone
For a healthy glow, use papaya. A 2014 study in the Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences found that this tropical fruit reduces melanin. It can even decrease oil, maintain hydration, and fight acne.3
Directions
- Scoop 1 tablespoon of papaya.
- Mash it up with a fork.
- If you’d like, add an exfoliator like sugar.
- Spread right onto the skin.
- Rinse off and dry.
6. Kiwi For Uneven Skin Tone
Kiwis can be used the same way as papayas. They contain plant compounds called flavonoids, which may inhibit tyrosinase. This enzyme plays a huge role in melanin production.4
Directions
- Cut ¼ of a kiwi.
- Mash with a fork.
- For a fruity boost, mix it with papaya.
7. Green Tea For Uneven Skin Tone
If you love green tea, brew an extra cup for your skin. This popular drink can fight hyperpigmentation.5 It also controls oil and fights acne, a major cause of discoloration.6
Directions
- Combine 1 tablespoon green tea leaves with 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel.
- With a cotton ball, green tea can also be used as a toner.
- Use it as the liquid in sugar, salt, or baking soda scrubs.
If you’re craving for a better complexion, skip the fancy products and make these recipes instead. There’s a good chance you already have these ingredients in your kitchen.
References
