Herbs for Pigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition which develops when there is an excess of melanin in the skin. This creates patches of skin which are darker as compared to the

How To Lighten Skin Pigmentation

surrounding skin. Melanin is the brown colored pigment which is present in the skin. It is the substance that is responsible for giving

the skin its color. Melanin absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiations as well as protects the skin. However, in doing so it darkens the skin

tone. With an increased amount of melanin present in the skin, it becomes darker. When the skin generates too much melanin, it results in a condition known as Hyperpigmentation and when the skin lacks or perhaps has very little melanin, it is called hypo pigmentation. Solar lentigos or sun spots, is also a common form of skin pigmentation. This skin pigmentation which is caused due to exposure to sunlight is not cancerous and usually appears on the areas of skin which are often exposed to the sun.

An extremely common reaction with regards to skin pigmentation is to reach out for skin whitening products. However, there are

many herbal remedies that help fade the dark patches or spots on the skin. Mentioned below are some herbs and natural remedies for pigmentation.

Herbs for Pigmentation:

• Fenugreek is a widely used herb which contains diosgenin. Diosgenin is a chemical constituent which helps reduce the formation of melanin in the skin and lighten the skin.

• Gingko is another herb which is used for the treatment of Hyperpigmentation. Tyrosinase is an enzyme which is responsible for discoloration of the skin. Gingko works by way of reducing this enzyme.

• The dried leaf extract of Mulberry can also be used in the diet to treat this condition. The mulberry plant contains a compound called Mulberroside F which works to inhibit tyrosinase activity. It also contains super oxide scavenging activity that works to lighten the skin tone.

Some Natural Remedies:

Aloe Vera has been used for a long time to treat skin disorders. It contains anti fungal and anti-inflammatory properties which work to cleanse, moisturize and soften the skin. Aloe vera also contains anti-aging properties which help to fade or prevent Hyperpigmentation. Topical application of aloe vera gel can inhibit the enzyme tyrosinases and prevent discoloration of the skin. Furthermore, Aloe vera stimulates the formation of new skin, and removes dead skin cells as well as tightens the skin.

Sandalwood or Santalum Album is another healing plant which has been used for a long time in many cultures. The Sandalwood plant is a stimulant,blood purifier and cooling agent which can be used for treating various skin problems including Hyperpigmentation. These properties protect the skin from the sun and smoothen it. Liver spots or age spots are a very common form of Hyperpigmentation which can benefit from this plant. The Sandalwood plant has anti-aging as well as antiseptic properties which provide a natural youthful skin tone.

These are some herbs and natural treatments used for treating skin pigmentation. However, it is always advisable to consult a doctor before using these herbal treatments.

Although herbal treatments provide effective results, using some allopathic medications like Melalong can also prove beneficial.
Melalong cream is a de-pigmenting agent which has proved effective in treating skin pigmentation. Tretinoin is one of the ingredients of Melalong Cream. Tretinoin is known to effectively treat acne, wrinkles and stretch marks. Another ingredient present in this cream is Hydroquinone. These ingredients destroy the pigment cells which in turn result in skin de-pigmentation. But, it is advisable to consult a doctor before using Melalong or any other medication.