Things to Do to Cure Pigmentation & Benefits of Moisturizer to Prevent It

Pigmentation is one of the most experienced skin problems affecting people of all ages and skin types. Pigmentation refers to the light and dark spots caused by melanin, which can make people concerned about their appearance. 
But what is pigmentation, and how can you cure it? In our comprehensive guide, we will explore various aspects of pigmentation, its cure, and how applying an effective moisturizer can prevent further breakouts of this skin problem.

What Is Pigmentation?

Pigmentation on skin refers to the dark spots visible on different parts of the human body. Melanin – which is a natural pigment formed by melanocytes is the core reason for the dark spots. On the other hand, patches, dark spots and discoloration on the face caused by the uneven distribution of the melanin indicate face pigmentation. Besides the uneven distribution of melanin, excessive sun exposure, specific skin conditions, and hormonal changes are the three common reasons behind pigmentation.

Different Categories of Pigmentation

Pigmentation and hyperpigmentation are the most commonly used terms, but there are different varieties of pigmentation which includes:

1. Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation refers to the dark patches visible on the skin due to excessive melanin production. While pigmentation refers to the natural coloring of the skin, hyperpigmentation is a skin condition where specific areas of the skin become darker than usual. It can happen due to melanin production and sun exposure.

2. Freckles

High sun exposure can lead to freckles which are small brown spots visible on individuals with fair skin.

3. Melasma

Melasma is a type of pigmentation caused by hormonal changes. It often refers to the brown patches visible primarily on the face. However, it can be cured with a few positive changes, such as proper skin care and sun protection.

4. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or PIH, refers to the dark spots emerging from a healed skin wound or acne.

Reasons for Pigmentation

There are multiple reasons for pigmentation. For instance, hyperpigmentation is caused by extreme sun exposure, but post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is the cause of a healed wound.  Nevertheless, there are other reasons as well as to why most of the people experience pigmentation which are mentioned below:

1. Sun Exposure

Sun exposure is one of the core reasons for pigmentation. UV rays often stimulate melanocytes and initiate excessive melanin production, resulting in tan and dark spots on the skin. It is also one of the key factors responsible for uneven skin.

2. Inflammation

The term ‘inflammation’ refers to our immune system’s response to various injuries, infections, and several inflammatory conditions, such as eczema and acne. These conditions can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or dark spots on the skin.

3. Aging

Aging is also one of the most common factors responsible for dark spots on the skin. The human body initiates the production of melanin unevenly with age, which is why we can see multiple dark spots on different parts of our body.

4. Hormonal Imbalance

Even though it is not a well-conceived notion, the hormone is often considered to be another common factor responsible for skin pigmentation. For instance, fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone can increase melanin production in the human body, resulting in hyperpigmentation and dark patches on the skin. Several pregnant women often experience dark spots on different parts of their bodies during pregnancy.

5. Genetics

Although genetics is overlooked as one of the reasons for pigmentation, it is one of the determining factors causing dark spots. Our genetics determines the overall melanin production and distribution, and works as a primary factor behind our skin tone.

6. Old or New Injury

An old injury can be a very common reason behind the formation of dark spots on the skin. In fact, minor injuries can also leave a mark on the skin during the healing process.

7. Medication

Medication is another reason behind dark spots due to its side effects. Although it does not happen for all the medicines we consume, some medicines come with side effects, including increased dark spots on the skin.

Key Home Remedies to Cure Pigmentation

Pigmentation can directly affect your inner confidence. Individuals experiencing pigmentation on the skin often end up questioning their appearance. Consequently, multiple areas of their life are negatively impacted. However, there are multiple ways to treat pigmentation. Here we are going to explore some of the common home remedies that can help you get rid of the problem:

1. Aloe Vera

You must have heard several benefits of applying aloe vera to the skin. But do you know that aloe vera is also one of the most significant factors responsible for treating pigmentation?

Aloe vera contains aloin, which is a natural depigmenting compound. It can lighten the skin and works effectively as a non-toxic hyperpigmentation treatment. You can apply it to the pigmented areas of your body before going to bed. However, it is advisable to rinse it with warm water in the morning and repeat this regularly until you notice improvement on the pigmented area.

2. Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract often works as a crucial depigmenting factor. So, you can apply it to your skin if you are experiencing pigmentation or dark spots in several areas of the skin. Here is a step-by-step guide for applying green tea extract to your skin to order to prevent pigmentation or get rid of the dark spots:

• Take a green tea bag and dip it into the boiled water for three to five minutes.

• In the second step, remove the tea bag and let it cool down.

• After this, rub the tea bag on the pigmented areas of your skin and repeat this process twice every day to get the results.

3. Milk

Sour milk, buttermilk, and even milk is considered to be the effective ingredients that can be used to remove pigmentation. Since milk contains lactic acid (a useful antiwrinkle ingredient generally found in over-the-counter skincare products), it is responsible for removing pigmentation from the skin. Here is a way to use milk for treating pigmentation:

• Take a cotton ball and soak it in the milk.

• Now, rub it over the pigmented areas of the skin twice a day and repeat this process regularly until you notice any improvement.

4. Licorice Extract

Licorice extract derives from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, which tastes sweet and comes with multiple medicinal properties. For example, it has a positive effect on treating pigmentation. It is often known as one of the most common ingredients responsible for lightening hyperpigmentation scars, primarily caused by sun exposure. You can find various pigmentation creams and moisturizers containing this ingredient. It is advisable to use the product as instructed on the package.

5. Red Lentils or Masoor Dal

Masoor dal is a very common ingredient found in every Indian household. It can also be used as one of the pigmentation remedies. Red lentils or masoor dal are rich in antioxidants, making them beneficial for the skin. You can make a masoor dal face mask and apply the same on the skin. Here is a step-by-step guide to making a masoor dal mask:

• Soak 50 grams of masoor dal overnight in a bowl.

• Now, make a fine paste by using a blender.

• You can apply the paste evenly on the pigmented areas of your skin or your face and leave it for at least twenty minutes.

• At last, clean it with cold water.

Benefits of Moisturizer to Cure Pigmentation

Moisturizers are one of those skincare products useful for hydration and also for providing us with a radiant and smooth skin. But moisturizers can also act as a significant factor that can heal pigmentation and acne scars.

Some of the other skin-related issues, include hyperpigmentation, age spots, and melasma, which can also be cured by the proper application of a moisturizer, resulting in an even complexion. You can also consider using a niacinamide-based moisturizer as t can produce melanin and further provide a better skin complexion.

Individuals experiencing pigmentation or dark spots on their skin are also recommended to use moisturizers containing alpha arbutin (popular for its skin-lightening properties). It can gradually work on the scars and offer glowing skin to the users.

 Pigmentation is a common and hardened skin problem that does not go away easily. However, proper application of several home remedies and moisturizers can help you get rid of this issue. You can find the best pigmentation cream in India only if you have a clear idea about its cause, the home remedies, and other factors. So, if you are someone facing the same issue, try to pick up the best product and cure your dark spots at home.