Patches of discoloration or unsightly marks on the skin, can end up giving several sleepless nights to the sufferer. Despite the availability of a wide variety of treatment options, an uneven skin tone often leads to the development of inferiority complex, which can have an adverse impact on one’s confidence levels. An uneven skin tone usually refers to a condition where a section or patch of skin is remarkably darker or lighter than the adjoining areas. Excessive production of the ‘melanin’ pigment manifests itself in the form of dark spots or blotches.
With radically changing lifestyles and increasing environmental pollution, skin-related complications are affecting a larger percentage of women and men these days. Chemical treatments and cosmetic procedures not only burn a hole in your pocket, but also trigger harmful side effects. Under the given circumstances, trying out some natural home remedies for getting rid of uneven skin tone seems to be the safest bet.
What are the common causes behind an uneven skin tone?
Imperfections in skin tone can be an outcome of a number of different reasons, such as:
- Skin problems such as tinea versicolor or vitiligo
- Allergic reactions
- Aging process
- Overexposure to sunlight
- Hormonal changes
- Frequent contact with certain objects or surfaces
- Scarring or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
A list of effective home remedies for getting rid of uneven skin tone naturally
If followed meticulously, these simple home remedies can be of great help in order to get rid of uneven skin tone and lighten skin naturally:
1. Sandalwood
With its amazing fragrance and properties, sandalwood has always been a well-guarded secret to clear even toned skin, right from the ancient times. Sandalwood clears sun tan and pigmentation marks to reveal beautiful, glowing skin. Prepare a paste using two teaspoons of sandalwood powder along with one tablespoon of milk and a few drops of rose water. You might even consider adding a pinch of saffron for further enhancing your glow!
2. Turmeric
Due to its powerful healing nature, turmeric continues to be one of the most trusted home remedies for getting rid of uneven skin tone. Turmeric based face-packs and creams are wonderful shortcuts to clear skin complexion naturally. Mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder and fresh milk cream, along with one & a half teaspoon of gram flour. Apply this all over your facial skin, neck and hands. Allow it to dry for about 20 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.
3. Papaya
The rich vitamin A content and natural bleaching properties of papaya, helps you to get rid of uneven skin tone in no time. Mash a portion of ripe papaya and mix it with two teaspoons of milk. Add some freshly squeezed juice of a lemon. Apply on face and leave it on for 10-minutes before washing off. Repeating this once or twice every week would leave your skin squeaky clean, and remove traces of dark spots and blemishes. Rubbing the inner side of papaya peel onto your skin removes dead cells and presents a fresh, youthful look.
4. Milk powder
One of the biggest secrets behind beautiful skin, milk contains bleaching properties and promotes clear skin complexion naturally. Combine a teaspoon of milk powder with fresh milk to form a smooth paste. Massage onto your face, neck and hands, and leave it on for 15-20 minutes till it dries up. Wash off with lukewarm water. On repeating this 2-3 times a week, you would automatically discover clear even toned skin within a very short span of time.
5. Orange
Packed with vitamin C, orange juice is an excellent remedy to lighten skin and improve its texture. Take two tablespoons of fresh orange juice and add 1/4th teaspoon of turmeric powder. Apply on body and face, leave it on for half an hour, and wash off. Repeat this on a regular basis to discover a healthy glow, devoid of any dark patches or spots.
6. Sugar
Being one of the best natural exfoliating agents, sugar helps to get rid of uneven skin tone and reveals a flawless, glowing look. You can prepare your own scrub at home using 1/4th cup of granulated sugar, olive oil and water. Mix a little water with sugar, to form a paste like consistency. Add olive oil and massage onto your skin, with special emphasis on affected regions such as the knees and elbows. Rub gently and rinse off to discover supple, silky skin.
7. Lemon
Loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants, lemons lighten skin and help in removing all kinds of blemishes due to its powerful bleaching properties. Dilute freshly squeezed lemon juice with a bit of water. Soak cotton balls in this solution and apply on your face. Let it remain for an hour before rinsing off with water. Apart from brightening your complexion, lemon juice significantly reduces the appearance of marks.
8. Tomato
When applied on body and face, tomato pulp acts as a natural bleaching agent and is highly effective in removing blemishes. It soothes sunburns, tightens pores and regulates the PH balance of your skin. Slice a fresh tomato into equal halves, and rub all over the surface of your skin. Let it remain for about 15 minutes before washing off. You can even prepare a mixture using fresh milk and tomato pulp for a clear skin complexion. Due to its lactic acid content, milk gently exfoliates your skin and leaves it feeling soft and supple.
9. Yogurt
Yogurt has the power to lighten skin on account of its natural bleaching elements. A yogurt mask helps in removing tan, scars and pigmentation marks to make way for clear even toned skin. Take a tablespoon of fresh yoghurt and massage onto your face and neck. Leave it on till it starts drying up. Wash off with lukewarm water and gently pat dry using a soft towel. Repeat this 3-4 times a week for best results.
10. Oatmeal and honey
Being an excellent detoxifying agent, honey removes impurities and it also combats dryness due to its moisturizing properties. On the other hand, oatmeal exfoliates your skin and helps to get rid of uneven skin tone. Pure honey when applied on face on a regular basis, produces a fresh and radiant look. Prepare a mask using two tablespoons of finely ground oats, one tablespoon of honey and two teaspoons of lemon juice. Mix well, massage onto your skin and leave it on for 15 minutes before rinsing with cold water. Watch those acne marks disappear with this awesome recipe, which also helps to lighten skin.
Preventive measures for reducing the possibilities of hyperpigmentation
Besides incorporating the above mentioned home remedies for getting rid of uneven skin tone into your personal care regime, it is highly recommended that you initiate these precautionary steps for your benefit:
- Do not forget to apply generous amounts of sunscreen lotion (SPF15 or higher) on face as well as on body before stepping out in the sun.
- Exfoliate your skin at regular intervals.
- Drink 8-10 glasses of water every day for flushing out toxins from your system.
- Always keep your skin well-hydrated using a suitable moisturizer (depending on your skin type).
- A balanced diet is a must. Ensure that your body receives an adequate supply of vitamin E and vitamin D.
- Steer clear of smoking and alcohol.
Hyperpigmentation can also be an early warning sign of a more serious underlying medical condition. Immediately get in touch with a dermatologist if your skin shows no signs of improvement, or if you suddenly notice any stark changes in its appearance.