Time to get your glow on

Do you miss having soft, supple flawless skin? Are dark patches on your skin worrying you? Pigmentation or uneven skin tone is caused by the increased production of melanin in our skin. During our teen years, skin cells are produced at an optimum rate, so the skin is plump and bright. Collagen and elastin, which form the matrix of the skin, function normally, keeping the face toned and resilient. But once hormonal changes in the body begin, the skin develops a tan, and becomes patchy or blotchy.

But before dealing with skin pigmentation, you need to know its causes. Both external factors and internal factors can cause an uneven skin tone. While external factors include excessive exposure to the sun and unhealthy diet, internal factors vary from pregnancy, ageing, birthmarks, side-effects of medications, birth control pills, moles and warts.

Sun exposure

Over exposure to the sun is one of the most common causes of pigmentation. It is important to wear a sunblock at all times of the day. Use DDF-enhancing sun protection SPF 30, which also helps even out visible redness. Sunscreen should be applied 20 minutes before sun exposure to allow it time to get absorbed. It should be reapplied if you are in the sun for longer than two to three hours. The harmful effects of the sun increase drastically when you are near water bodies or snow, as they reflect the sun’s radiation.

A good diet

Your diet plays a major role in determining the health of your skin. Leafy vegetables such as spinach, coriander, asparagus and curry leaves are replete with vitamin A, which is highly beneficial for the skin. Your diet should be balanced with protein and carbs. Drink lots of water and eat as much fruit as possible to keep your skin hydrated.

Skin pigmentation at an early stage can be cured by using some home remedies. However, for severe cases, make sure you consult a doctor. Cosmetic interventions like chemical peels and laser treatments can help.

Here are some home remedies for dark patches and blotches:

As a night-time regimen, clean your face thoroughly and apply a small amount of cream containing AHA (Alpha hydroxy acid) on your face and neck.

Vitamin E helps reduce pigmentation. You can break a Vitamin E capsule and mix it in a few drops of castor oil and apply it on the pigmented area.

Make a thick paste of almonds and apply it on the affected area or use a mixture of ground almonds and milk cream. Rub it gently on the skin and wash with lukewarm water.

Mix one tbsp of lemon juice with one tbsp of turmeric powder in a bowl. Apply the mixture on your skin and leave it on for 15 minutes. Then wash it with water. Repeat this every night before going to bed. Turmeric makes the skin vibrant and helps maintain pH levels.

Mix 2 tbsps of sandalwood powder and 2 tbsps of rose water to make a thick and smooth paste. Apply this to the affected areas of your skin, and let it sit for about 30 minutes before washing it off with lukewarm water. Repeat this twice a day regularly. Sandalwood works as a stimulant and blood purifier, and helps in reducing pigmentation levels.

(The author is a beauty expert & founder-director of ALPS Beauty Group.)