Areas of darkened skin, or hyperpigmentation, can be caused by skin irritation and inflammation, as occurs with acne or skin rashes; hormonal changes due to pregnancy; or oral contraceptives. Sun exposure can cause dark blotches, age spots and freckles, and certain medications can darken the skin as well. A number of home remedies can be effective in improving the appearance hyperpigmentation, though consult with a doctor or dermatologist prior to trying any home remedy.
Almond Paste
Almond paste is a popular home remedy for lightening skin. This paste can be made by grinding a few almonds, then soaking them in milk for several hours. Apply the paste to the darkened areas of skin and leave it on overnight. According to Daily Glow, some users report noticeable lightening of the skin after two weeks of use.
Lemon Juice
According to MotherNature.com, lemon juice is mildly acidic, which speeds exfoliation and removes dead skin cells to allow new, fresh ones to come to the skin's surface. Lemon juice can remove mild skin discolorations or lighten more severe skin spots, but patience is necessary, as results will not appear overnight. Visible improvement may take four to six weeks of daily treatment with lemon juice. Lemon juice can cause dryness with regular use, so be sure to apply a good moisturizer after each use.
Milk
According to GrannyMed.com, milk contains lactic acid, which works on the skin much like the acid in lemon juice, hastening the exfoliation process to reveal bright new skin. For faster results, use concentrated milk products for your skin lightening treatments. These contain a higher concentration of lactic acid than regular milk, and are available at natural food stores.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide, used for years to lighten hair and skin, can improve dark patches on the skin. According to GrannyMed.com, hydrogen peroxide is more acidic than lemon juice or milk products, and must be used carefully to avoid severely drying the skin. To use hydrogen peroxide as a skin lightening treatment, dab it on darkened skin areas with a cotton ball, allow it to dry, then rinse thoroughly and apply moisturizer to soothe and protect the skin.
Raw Potatoes
Grated raw potatoes can be used as a home remedy to lighten skin discolorations. Alone or mixed with a tablespoon or two of honey, apply the potato mixture to the darkened area and leave it for at least 15 minutes. This treatment can be done once or twice daily, and visible results can take several weeks.
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