Last time we saw what pigmentation is, types of pigmentation, and causes. Today we’ll see how to prevent and treat pigmentation. Prevention and treatment is always based on the cause, isn’t it? And you know that the causes include sun exposure or tanning, post inflammatory hyper pigmentation, etc.
Prevention:
1. We have seen that sun exposure is common cause of pigmentation so one of the best ways to avoid pigmentation is to apply a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30+, which will block both UVA and UVB light. The sunscreen needs to be applied every three to four hours if you're outdoors.
2. Wear hats that protect your face, neck and ears from the sun.
3. Avoid the sun during the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is when the sun is typically the brightest.
4. Don't wear heavy metals if they cause dark spots on your skin.
5. As some drugs cause pigmentation so before taking medication, ask the pharmacist if it causes hyperpigmentation and what can be done to prevent it.
6. Some types of hyperpigmentation, like melisma which is uneven production of pigmentation on the face results in dark brown/ black skin patches. They develop if you have a family history of that condition.
7. Hyperpigmentation may fade after pregnant women give birth.
8. Topical creams containing Hydroxy Quinone, tretinoin, topical steroids, alpha hydroxy acid creams, azelic acid or kojic acid should be used at nighttime and together with sunblock during the day.
9. Oral use of antioxidants also helps in reducing pigmentation.
10. Hydrate yourself well by drinking water regularly (1.5 liters of water per day).
11. If creams do not work, chemical peels, microdermabrasion or fractional lasers are further treatment options. These procedures require multiple sessions at intervals of one to four weeks. Bleaches are also used to try to lighten or fade the dark patches.
Home remedies for Pigmentation:
1. Avocados:
Peel an avocado, mash it up and apply the juice on pigmented skin. The enzymes in avocados reduce pigmentation.
2. Lemon/Lime:
Mix a few drops of lime juice with honey, apply to the affected area and leave it on for 10 minutes. Lemon is a natural bleach and honey is a natural moisturizer.
3. Cucumber:
Cucumber juice alone or in addition with honey can be applied to reduce pigmentation.
4. Aloe Vera:
It is very effective in treating pigmentation. Use it in the gel form from markets or gather the gel straight from the plant.
5. Potato:
Applying the juice of raw potatoes is another simple remedy to treat pigmentation.
So these were few prevention and treatment methods with few home remedies you may like to try. The basic things like wearing sunscreen and avoiding to go under sun as much as possible are the basic things one can do but if you have serious problem, then you can go for both home remedies and medical treatment.