Splotchy, blemished arms can be a major source of embarrassment, particularly during the summer months when everyone wants glowing, beautiful bare skin. Rather than hiding your blemishes, treat them with essential oils and exfoliation to replenish moisture and slough off dead skin. Safflower oil mimics the naturally occurring oils in your skin to reduce redness without clogging pores or irritating follicles. A small amount of safflower oil can go a long way toward transforming your arms from splotchy to sun kissed.
Symptoms
Splotchy arms are characterized by discolored, uneven skin tone, generally including large red patches. Splotchy skin is often dry and skin may be broken and flake off. Itchiness, red or white bumps and even blisters may accompany splotchy skin. Splotchy arms may be a symptom of Hughes Syndrome, in which case you may also experience headaches, giddiness, memory loss and visual disturbances. Consult a dermatologist or doctor immediately if you experience any symptoms of Hughes Syndrome accompanying splotchy skin.
Causes
Splotchy arms can be caused by a number of factors. Damage from sun exposure is one of the most common causes and other environmental factors such as wind exposure and a dry climate can exacerbate it. Poor circulation is another cause of red blotches on the arms. Splotchy arms are often an indication of keratosis pilaris, a common, benign skin condition, or atopic eczema, a chronic skin condition. Splotchy arms accompanied by headaches and other symptoms may indicate Hughes Syndrome.
Safflower Oil
Safflower oil is an essential oil that contains linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid that smooths and moisturizes dry skin. Safflower oil mimics the naturally occurring lipids in human skin, making it a gentle treatment for splotchy arms. It is safe to use safflower oil even if you have acne, as it won't clog pores or irritate follicles. To use it, spread a thin layer of safflower oil over your affected skin and let it sink in. You can also make a moisturizing mask by combining 1/2 teaspoon safflower oil, 1/2 teaspoon avocado oil and 1 teaspoon sesame oil, then spreading it on your arms.
Other Treatments
Since splotchy arms are generally the result of sun damage or a skin condition that dries out your skin, they can be treated at home with moisturizing lotions. Look for lotions that contain vitamin D, urea, lactic acid, glycolic acid or tretinoin for maximum effectiveness. If your splotchy arms are the result of poor circulation, try regular massage and exercise to get your blood moving. To rejuvenate your skin and unclog pores, apply an exfoliating treatment to slough off dead skin cells and reveal healthy, glowing skin.
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