Treat Skin Pigmentation with Aloe Vera? When you look at your skin, do you notice any patches that are darker than the rest of your body? If so, you have hyperpigmentation, a common skin condition that’s usually not harmful. Hyperpigmentation can happen when extra pigment — called melanin — deposits in your skin.
People of any age, sex, or race can experience hyperpigmentation. It’s most commonly caused by:
- sun exposure
- medications such as chemotherapy drugs
- pregnancy
- acne
- hormone disorders
While there are many products on the market that may treat hyperpigmentation, if you’re looking for a natural way to lighten these spots, you may want to consider aloe vera.
Aloe vera has been found to have many health benefits for the skin, from helping to heal wounds to moisturizing.
There’s a small amount of scientific evidence suggesting that applying aloe vera to your skin may help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmented areas, though it won’t completely get rid of these darker spots.
What Is Pigmentation?
The awkward and uneven dark or brown spots on different parts of the body is called skin pigmentation. Melanin is a pigment that is responsible for the skin colour and when the production of this pigment is damaged, skin pigmentation occurs. The excessive production of melanin causes hyperpigmentation and this affects almost all parts of the body, including the face, neck, hands, arms and legs. Hyperpigmentation is caused both by internal and external factors. Internal factors could be hormonal changes in the body, pregnancy or other health problems. External factors that contribute to this condition are excessive exposure to the sun, skin injuries, burns, contact with certain types of chemicals and even emotional stress.
How aloe vera works to lighten skin pigmentation
Per the limited number of existing studies, certain chemicals in aloe vera may have skin-lightening properties. These chemicals are called aloin and aloesin.
They may reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by destroying existing melanin cells and preventing further formation of melanin in the skin.
In one animal study, scientists found that aloin destroyed melanin cells in pigmented cells taken from tadpole tails.
In another study on cells, scientists found that aloesin prevented hyperpigmented laboratory-produced human skin from producing more melanin.
Scientists have also studied the effects of aloesin in preventing hyperpigmentation in people. UV radiation — or sunlight — is a major cause of hyperpigmentation.
In this studyTrusted Source, a group of people with hyperpigmentation were exposed to ultraviolet radiation on their inner forearm.
Treatments were administered 4 times a day. Members of the group were divided into subgroups based on the type of treatment that was applied to their arm.
- Members of the first subgroup received aloesin.
- Members of the second subgroup received arbutin (hydroquinone).
- Members of the third group received both aloesin and arbutin.
- Members of the fourth subgroup received no treatment.
Those who received skin treatments showed less pigmentation compared to those who received no treatment.
And those who received the aloesin-arbutin combination treatment showed the most reduced pigmentation.
How to use aloe vera to treat skin pigmentation
You can use aloe vera straight from the plant, or you can purchase aloe vera as a gel in your local drugstore or health food store.
Preparing gel from the plant
Aloe vera gel is a thick and sticky liquid inside the pointed leaves of the plant. To get to the gel inside a plant:
- Find a mature plant that’s several years old. Older plants may contain higher levels of aloin and aloesin.
- Remove a few thick leaves from the outer part of the plant, using scissors and cutting them near the stem, next to the base of the plant. Make sure these leaves do not show signs of mold or damage. They should be green and smooth, with consistent coloration.
- Wash and dry the leaves you cut.
- Cut off the prickly parts on the edges of the leaves.
- Use a knife or your fingers to scrape the inside gel off of the thin outside leaf. This gel is what you’ll apply to your skin.
- Cut the gel into slices or cubes for storage in the fridge. Take out and use as needed.
Applying aloe vera gel
Whether you’re using aloe vera from the plant or a store product, rub a thin layer on the hyperpigmented area of skin you’d like to treat up to several times a day.
While there’s no established dose for aloe vera, studies suggest this is an effective and safe dose for aloe vera gel.
Both aloe vera gel from the plant and gel from a drugstore are considered safe for most healthy people to apply directly to their skin.
There’s little risk of trying aloe vera if you want to reduce the appearance of your hyperpigmented skin.
However, note that aloe vera may not completely reduce the appearance of dark spots. It’s also possible to be allergic to it. If a rash develops or your skin is irritated, discontinue use.
Alternative skin pigmentation home remedies
There are other natural options when it comes to treating your hyperpigmentation at home, including:
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which researchTrusted Source suggests can lighten dark spots on the skin.
You can mix apple cider vinegar with an equal amount of water and apply to dark patches on your skin for a few minutes before rinsing off with warm water. You can apply this solution to your skin up to 2 times a day.
Azelaic acid
According to research, azelaic acid may even out the appearance of hyperpigmentation in people with acne over 16 weeks.
You can find topical azelaic acid gel in most drugstores. Use as directed per the package instructions.
Black tea water
An animal study suggests that black tea can lighten hyperpigmented skin in guinea pigs when applied 2 times a day, 6 days a week, for 4 weeks.
If you want to try this at home, make strong black tea by letting it steep and cool for at least two hours. Then apply it to hyperpigmented areas of your skin with a cotton ball.
Chemical peel
Chemical peels involve applying acids to the skin to remove uppermost skin layers that contain extra pigments.
Researchers say most chemical peels sold in drugstores are effective and safe ways to reduce pigmentation when applied as directed, even for people with a darker overall complexion.
Green tea extract
Studies show that green tea extract may be able to lighten hyperpigmented skin. Use it as directed on the package.
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone, also called arbutin, has been found to lighten hyperpigmented skin, especially when combined with other skin-lightening chemicals. It’s available over the counter in creams.
Kojic acid
Kojic acid comes from a fungus that research suggests can break down melanin in the skin and prevent more melanin from forming, lightening dark spots. You can find creams containing kojic acid in most drugstores.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is a type of vitamin B-3 that research shows prevents skin darkening and also lightens dark spots on the face. Look for creams containing niacinamide in your local drugstore.
Orchid extract
There’s some evidence that orchid extracts can lighten hyperpigmented skin when used daily for 8 weeks. Find orchid extract in products like:
- masks
- creams
- scrubs
Red onion
According to scientists, dried red onion skin contains an ingredient called allium cepa that can lighten hyperpigmented skin. You can purchase creams with this ingredient over the counter.
Retinoids
Retinoids come from vitamin A and can be used to reduce hyperpigmentation when used over a long period of time, according to researchers.
But keep in mind, retinoid cream commonly causes side effects like skin redness.
You can find retinoids in the form of retinol, which is a common ingredient in skin care creams.
Vitamin C
In researchTrusted Source, vitamin C cream has been found effective at reducing hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure when applied 5 days a week for 7 weeks.
Aloe Vera And Honey To Treat Pigmentation
Many people flaunt of flawless skin and the truth is that they hardly do anything special to get that perfect skin! A little care every day can just create wonders on your skin. Pigmentation, dark spots, freckles, and an uneven skin tone are a few problems we all face on our skin. But there are a hell lot of home remedies that can help you get rid of these skin problems. In this article, we will discuss about pigmentation and how we can handle this problem with the use of aloe vera and honey.
Benefits Of Aloe Vera And Honey For The Skin:
A simple process to get rid of pigmentation is skin whitening or skin bleaching. Now, when we hear of skin bleach, we all remember those expensive chemical-based store-bought products. But if you really love to pamper your skin with a natural product, Aloe Vera would be the first remedy. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties in aloe vera keep skin allergies at bay. Also, the antioxidant agents housed in the aloe gel tighten the skin and reduce premature ageing signs. We all know that aloe vera can be consumed internally and used for external application as well. Honey is also naturally antibacterial, hence it is great for acne treatment and prevention. It is full of antioxidants and creates wonders to slow down ageing. It is extremely moisturising and soothing and can help to give your skin that glow by removing pigmentation if any.
Remedies For Pigmentation With Aloe And Honey:
- 1. Remove the gel of aloe vera and swallow the pulp as is or blend it to a smooth paste and swallow it. This way, your overall health and skin are benefited.
- 2. You can also blend aloe gel with any citrus fruit and consume it in the form of a juice. This way, it becomes easier to consume it internally.
- 3. Before going to bed, take a piece of aloe vera and scrub the gel all over the hyperpigmented area. Leave it overnight and rinse off in the morning. Continue this daily for about 2 weeks for good results.
- 4. Mix about two tablespoons of aloe vera gel with about half a tablespoon of raw honey. Let this mixture settle for about 10 minutes. Now, apply this mixture on the pigmented area and let it dry completely. After about 20 minutes, rinse it off with lukewarm water. You will have to continue this every day for at least 2 weeks, after which you can reduce the frequency to every alternate day.
- 5. Another easy remedy for pigmentation with aloe vera is to mix it with some cucumber pulp or juice and apply it over the affected area daily, until you get positive results.
- 6. You can just use only raw honey to treat pigmentation as well. Apply a thin and an even layer of honey on the pigmented area, let it dry and then rinse it off with lukewarm water.
12 Home Remedies to Get Rid of Pigmentation & Dark Spots
These days, skin diseases and infections are becoming quite common due to the ever-increasing problem of pollution. Skin pigmentation and dark spots on the skin is one of those severe problems which occur when there is hormonal imbalance, irregular sleep or any such complications. Many times females use concealers, bb creams and other chemical remedies which can temporarily solve their problem but they forget to focus on the root of the problem as well as on the after-effects of using them. A person should feel comfortable with his skin.
To provide a natural solution to this problem of pigmentation and dark-spots, we have listed 12 amazing home remedies which are effective and if used regularly can do wonders by curing the problem of pigmentation and dark spots naturally.
The list is given below –
- Raw Potatoes – Potatoes contain an enzyme called catecholase which curbs the excessive melanin production within an individual. Raw potatoes are eminently effective in lightening the dark spots and reducing pigmentation on the skin.
Method to follow –
- Take a potato slice and rub it in circular motion on the affected areas.
- Continue the process for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Wait for 5 more minutes and then rinse the area with lukewarm water.
How often to do it?
Try to repeat the process thrice a day.
2. Onion juice – Onions are a rich source of Vitamin C which is an amazing antioxidant and helps in treating pigmentation.
Method to follow –
- Take a slice of red onion (make sure to avoid white onions).
- Rub the slice on the affected area of the skin.
- You can also grate the onion and apply the juice on the affected area of the skin.
How often to do it?
Try to apply twice a day for improvements.
3. Yoghurt – Yoghurt contains lactic acid which can slow down the growth of your melanocytes. It will also help in the exfoliating skin and improving its texture. Yoghurt has properties to cure hyperpigmentation and improve skin texture.
Method to follow –
- Take one tablespoon of full-fat plain yoghurt and apply on affected areas.
- Wait for 20 minutes and later, rinse it with lukewarm water.
How often to do it?
Thrice a week
4. Lemon juice – Lemon juice mixed with honey works as a natural bleaching agent. Lemons contain antioxidant properties which not only protect the skin from ultraviolet (UV) damage but also lightens dark spots.
Method to follow –
- Mix lemon juice with some honey.
- Apply this mixture on the affected areas.
- Wait for at least 15 minutes.
- Wash it off with lukewarm water.
How often to do it?
Use it at least twice a day to notice a change.
5. Sandalwood – Sandalwood is one of the oldest blood purifiers which helps in reducing pigmentation. It also helps in treating the dark spots.
Method to follow –
- Take sandalwood powder and mix it with rose water to make a paste.
- Apply the paste on affected areas of your skin and leave it for thirty minutes or more.
- Rinse the area of the skin with lukewarm water.
How often to do it?
You can try this method thrice a week.
6. Oatmeal – Oatmeal makes the skin appear younger by exfoliating the dead skin. It is an excellent scrubber which is effective for reducing dark spots and for treating hyperpigmentation.
Method to follow –
- Take oatmeal and mix it with milk.
- Apply it on the affected part of the skin and scrub it gently.
- Keep scrubbing for a few minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water.
How often to do it?
This can be done twice a week.
7. Tomato – Tomato is well-known for lightening the colour of the skin and removing tanning by neutralising the effect of harmful UV rays. Tomato is considered to be one of the best bleaching agents.
Method to follow –
- Take a tomato and cut it into slices.
- Rub the slice for a few minutes over the affected parts of the skin.
- Leave it for a few minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water.
How often to do it?
Once in a day
8. Papaya- Papaya helps in treating skin pigmentation by encouraging cell growth and eliminating dead skin cells. It contains an enzyme called papain which has exfoliating properties.
Method to follow –
- Mix the papaya pulp with milk and honey.
- Apply the mixture and leave it for about 30 minutes.
- Rinse your face with lukewarm water.
How often to do it?
Repeat the process twice a day to get the best results.
9. Aloe Vera – Aloe Vera helps in reducing dark spots and pigmentation. It also protects the skin from the damage caused by UV radiation.
Method to follow –
- In a bowl, take aloe vera gel and mix few drops of honey.
- Apply it on the skin for 10 minutes and let it get absorbed by the skin.
- Rinse your skin with lukewarm water after 15- 20 minutes.
How often to do it?
This can be done once a week.
10. Turmeric – Since ancient times turmeric has been used as a face-pack in Indian households because of its medicinal properties. It is also helpful in balancing the pH level of the skin and adds a radiant glow to it.
Method to follow –
- Mix few drops of lemon juice with 1 tbsp of turmeric in order to make a paste.
- Apply the paste on the affected area to cleanse your skin.
- After 15 minutes, wash it off with lukewarm water.
How often to do it?
Once a day before sleeping.
11. Cucumber – Cucumber can rejuvenate the skin as well as lighten the dark spots on the skin. It is also effective in treating blemishes on the skin.
Method to follow –
- Mix Cucumber juice, honey and lemon juice in a bowl and obtain a smooth mixture by whisking.
- Apply the mixture on affected areas of the skin and leave for a few minutes.
- Rinse it with lukewarm water.
How often to do it?
Repeat the process twice a day.
12. Apple Cider Vinegar – Apple cider vinegar has astringent properties which help to restore the natural colour of the skin. It also helps in naturally making the skin radiant. Apple Cider Vinegar also contains beta-carotene which is effective in treating the damage caused to the skin.
treating the damage caused to the skin.
Method to follow –
- Mix water in apple cider vinegar and dilute it.
- Apply the mixture on affected areas.
- Leave it for a few minutes and rinse it with lukewarm water.
How often to do it?
Repeat the process twice a day until improvements can be noticed.
Try these home remedies as per directions for over a month and feel the change in your skin.
