In the simplest terms, pigmentation means colouring. Skin pigmentation disorders affect the colour of your skin. Your skin gets a colour from a pigment called melanin. There are special cells in our skin that make melanin and when these cells get damaged or unhealthy, it affects melanin production. Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition that manifests with spots of discoloured skin that may be brown, black blue or purple. Pigmentation can occur in any part of the body but is most common on the face and hands. It is a very common skin problem. It damages not only your skin but also your confidence and while it is normal, people often feel insecure because of it. However, there is absolutely no need to do so. You are beautiful as you are. If you’re looking for effective ways to decrease pigmentation, we’ve curated a blog to fit your needs! Keep reading to find out more.
Dark patches on the skin; scars or marks that are usually in a straight line; discolouration of the skin around the eyes, mouth, lip and nose; skin that is rough bumpy or dry looking with fine lines or wrinkles appearing around the eyes and mouth area; inflamed skin or skin that is tender to touch. If you’ve noticed most of these on your skin, chances are you have it as well. But, do not worry at all. It is treatable.
There can be external and internal factors which cause hyperpigmentation. External causes can be various, among them the most prominent of all is overexposure to the sun. Most people do not understand the importance of sunscreen which is causing hyperpigmentation. Second can be the exposure to pollution, the dust and chemicals in the air can damage your skin tissues. The third and the most common is a plethora of cosmetic products which are luring the young/old with beguile of white or youthful skin. Age, skin cancer, irritation of the skin, and infections are the other various reasons for skin disfigurement.
When it comes to skincare, a lot of us swear by the magic of Ayurveda. Ayurveda offers natural holistic remedies that address the issues from the root, unlike cosmetics which provide a temporary veil while adding to the damage beneath. Keeping the skin in balance is the basis of Ayurvedic treatment. The main focus of Ayurveda is on maintaining a balance between three doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha with special emphasis on the latter two. Dosha means faults and is one of the three substances present in the human body. Vata: When the air is high, it causes dryness, which is the major cause of pigmentation. Because of dryness, wrinkles form and the skin loses its glow and plump texture. That is why it is important to practice oiling and steaming. Pitta: When Pitta is in excess, it dries up moisture and triggers either oiliness or sensitivity. Acne resulting in scars and hyperpigmentation is commonly encountered on Pitta skin. For this, opt for clay masks or aloe vera juice. Spritz your face with organic rose water. Kapha: It is high during spring and sometimes in monsoon, the high moisture in the air may trigger Kapha problems too.
There are various ayurvedic treatments for hyperpigmentation. One should visit an experienced Ayurvedic Dermatologist to get the best from Ayurveda.
Turmeric: This is one ingredient that you will find in abundance in your household! Ayurveda, the centuries-old traditional Indian school of healing has used this spice for ages. Turmeric is packed with antioxidant, antibacterial, and antiinflammatory compounds which makes it a very effective ingredient for treating pigmentation. It not only helps to cure the problem but also prevents it from occurring again in the future. Turmeric has anti-oxidant properties that help regulate melanin production in your skin. Regular use of turmeric helps you to get rid of pigmentation very quickly because it will balance your melanin production and give you healthy and glowing skin.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon, also known as dalchini in Hindi, is a great natural ingredient that helps to regulate melanin in your skin. It is also extremely effective for treating every kind of inflammation, such as acne, pimples, rosacea, etc.
Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera is perhaps one of the most widely used herbal remedies for topical skin conditions. It is an excellent natural ingredient that aids in healing the skin and also removing all damaged skin cells, resulting in healthy and glowing skin. Aloe Vera contains many useful ingredients such as Vitamin E, A, C, B1 etc.
Tomato: The most easily available natural ingredient that helps in the reduction of the production of melanin in your skin. Regular use of tomatoes is highly recommended to give you healthy, glowing skin. They are rich in Vitamin C and potassium. They treat the skin without any side effects.
Papaya: Your favourite tropical fruit can do wonders for your skin. Papaya contains alpha hydroxy acids, which are effective in cell turnover and exfoliation and papain found in papaya gives your skin the health and glow you are craving for. You can find papain in many products such as peel masks, cleansers and exfoliating scrubs.
Amla: Amla extract has long been revered by dermatologists and skin care experts as a superfood that can contribute to a glowing complexion through both skincare and incorporating it in your diet. Amla extract has been used in powders, tea, juices and oil for thousands of years, it is commonly found in many organic products. This is also popular as Antioxidant Powerhouse.
Sadhev Recommendations: Use Ayurvedic products containing amla for strong nourished hair. Our natural hair dyes like organic hair colour and Ayurvedic hair colour Double Process are made with the goodness of amla. You can try our Amla shampoo for your hair fall issues.
Licorice: Licorice root contains two ingredients that help with pigmentation: glabridin and liquiritin. Glabridin helps to retrain the production of melanin. Liquiritin helps to break up and remove melanin and pigmentation in the skin. In addition to helping with dark spots, liquorice can be soothing and help even out your skin tone.
Sadhev Recommendations: Use Sadhev Ayurvedic Sunscreen with SPF 30 with liquorice to protect your skin from sun damage.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is another popular brightening alternative found in many serums. Vitamin C is an amazing antioxidant that is beneficial for patients with hyperpigmentation. It works by brightening dark spots, blemishes and helps to create glowing healthy skin.
Sadhev Recommendations: Use Sadhev Ayurvedic Vitamin C Serum for glowing skin.
