Dark spots on the face are very common and can affect anyone, regardless of age and gender. Also called age spots or sun spots, these skin changes are often brought on by factors like sun exposure, aging, and natural changes occurring in the body. These spots can also appear on any other body part and are usually harmless. Nevertheless, it is possible to manage these skin changes with the help of some natural remedies.
Causes of dark spots
Though dark spots can occur in all skin types, they are more common in people with darker skin tones. Understanding the causes of these skin changes is the first step in removing them. By identifying the potential causes and taking the necessary steps to avoid or manage them, individuals can prevent the occurrence of such dark spots or observe them fading gradually. Dark spots can happen due to various factors.
- Change in the skin after a pimple is cleared
- Skin changes after insect bites
- Overexposure to the sun
- The natural process of aging
Natural remedies to remove dark patches on the face
Opting for natural products or remedies can be a safer and gentler alternative for people who prefer to avoid commercial products for dark spots. For people with specific skin issues, they can opt for a remedy that is safe for their usage. But, it is important to be patient as natural remedies often take time to yield results. Each skin type is different, and the remedy that may work for one may not work for another, so it is important to try multiple natural products to determine the best choice.
1. Lemon
This fruit is rich in natural properties that help lighten the dark spots on one’s face. Lemon peels, which are often discarded, can be used to rub on the facial skin to absorb a small amount of leftover juice. The citric acid content in lemons helps get rid of dark spots on one’s skin.
Alternatively, one can directly apply lemon juice, but ensure it is diluted with water. Make a scrub with lemon juice, sugar, and water. Massage the face gently with this mixture and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing.
2. Apple cider vinegar
One can apply apple cider vinegar directly on dark spots as it helps lighten the skin. But, for better results, one can mix water with apple cider vinegar in a 2:1 ratio and apply it on the affected areas of the skin using a cotton ball. Leave it on for a few minutes to dry and rinse it off. Ensure the apple cider vinegar is natural.
3. Chickpea flour
This is an excellent exfoliator that helps remove impurities from one’s skin and lighten the dark spots. Make a smooth paste using 2 teaspoons of chick flour, one teaspoon of curd, a pinch of turmeric, and half a lemon’s juice. Apply this paste to the face, massage gently, and rinse it off with water after 20 minutes. Repeat this daily for two weeks, and then reduce the frequency to about two to three times a week.
4. Aloe vera
This succulent plant is popular for its moisturizing and soothing properties on the skin. It has regenerative properties that help lighten the skin when it is used on areas where there are dark spots. If one has an aloe vera plant at home, they can cut a leaf from it and extract the gel from the inside. This can be done by removing the thorns and slicing the leaf into two. Once the gel is extracted, one can apply it to the spots. One can leave it on for 30 minutes to overnight, depending on one’s preferences. Next, rinse it off with water and pat dry. For the best results, repeat this process one to two times daily for a month.
5. Horseradish
This herb is widely used to improve the skin’s appearance. Peel and grate a 4-to-5-inch long horseradish and blend it with enough water to create a thick paste. Apply this paste to the face. Allow it to dry before rinsing off. For better results, one can try combining horseradish with apple cider vinegar and create a paste to be applied on affected areas.
6. Turmeric
It is another natural remedy for dark spots on facial skin. Mix one or two pinches of turmeric with a couple of drops of water. Once a paste is created, apply it all over the face or over dark spots. Leave it for 5 minutes before washing.
Alternatively, one can combine two teaspoons of turmeric with some milk and lemon juice and apply the mixture to the affected areas.
7. Sandalwood powder
Besides its fragrance, sandalwood powder is known for its ability to lighten the skin. To remove dark spots, one can mix two tablespoons of sandalwood powder with equal amounts of rose water. Next, add one spoonful of lemon juice along with some cold water and mix well. Apply the mixture over the dark spots and allow it to dry before rinsing off. Repeat this for a few weeks to observe the dark spots fading away.
8. Cucumber
Cucumber is known for its natural properties that help with discoloration of dark spots. To use this remedy, grind the cucumber into a pulp and mix it with half a teaspoon of aloe vera gel and equal amounts of lemon juice. Apply the mixture over the face thoroughly and leave it on for 30 minutes. Once dried, rinse it off. Repeat this method daily for the best results. Besides removing dark spots, cucumber helps improve skin texture.