Dark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, are most common in middle age but are affecting younger people at a steadily alarming rate. Dark spots are caused by sun damage and melisma and are visible on the face, neck, shoulders, and hands. It is important to make an appointment with a dermatologist to rule out skin cancer, which is on the rise as well. Too much time in the sun and hormone imbalance are the main triggers of dark spots. There are topical creams and medications to help lighten these spots but there are ingredients you may already have in your home that can do the job as well! Read on to learn natural ways to lighten your dark spots and remember to steer clear of the sun unless you are wearing sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera promotes skin regeneration and can lessen your spots in about a month. Apply pure aloe vera juice to your skin affected twice a day and leave on for at least 45 minutes. Rinse off with warm water and follow with an oil-free moisturizer.
Papaya
Papaya contains papain, an enzyme that assists in exfoliating the skin (our favorite!), and will gently slough away dead skin (cellular build-up) to make room for new skin to form. Over time, exfoliating will lessen the dark spots due to the new skin forming. Gently rub raw papaya flesh on your affected areas of dark spots and wash off after several minutes. Do this once a day and you will see a beautiful difference in no time!
Lemon Juice
Due to lemon juice being highly acidic, this fruit has been quite beneficial in lightening (bleaching out) dark spots on the skin. Apply the juice twice a day to your skin and leave on all day. You will see positive affects in about 6 weeks!
Onion Juice & Apple Cider Vinegar
Though this combination does not sound like it would smell very nice, it can do wonders for your skin! Both ingredients are highly acidic and combined can truly lighten dark spots by exfoliating away dead skin cells. Puree an onion and strain the juice out and mix with an equal amount of apple cider vinegar. Dip a cotton ball or Q-tip into the mixture and apply to your dark spots. This treatment can take up to 6 months to see results.
Castor Oil
Castor oil, which derives from the castor plant’s bean-like seed, has been used since ancient times. The acid within the oil is known to lighten dark spots. Gently apply the castor oil to the affected areas twice a day and you will more than likely see results within a month or so. Avoid contact with the eye area.
Remember, too much time in the sun is not good for your skin. People as young as in their early 20’s are starting to get dark spots, not to mention different types of skin cancer. Protect yourself and wear sunscreen every day, even in the winter, and regularly exfoliate your face, neck, and body with a gentle exfoliating scrub to stimulate new skin cell production and rid your body of dry, dead skin. It’s important to hydrate your skin as well with a moisturizer. Take care of your skin and it will take care of you!
will this work on birthmark?
Are you sure its ok to leave lemon on your face all day???
Do these work on african skin aswell??
Thanks, these treatment sound very interesting. I’m particularly interested in d lemon juice therapy because, where I live, its a lot easier to get fresh lemon. Like someone asked, is it safe to leave lemon juice on d skin all day? Another question I have is, I shaved my bikin line, n developed some bumps, that have disappeared now, but has left some dark spots, will dis lemon juice help clear those out too?