Ditch those paraben rich products and try 3 natural ingredients for spot reduction

Dark spots, whether a legacy left behind by past acne, the result of age, hyperpigmentation, sun exposure, or any other reason can be difficult to deal with. They never go away on their own and are a bane, if you want to go makeup-free.

Here are a few home remedies that can help:

1. Papaya

Papaya can be used as a mask and for exfoliation. It has a fruit acid called alpha-hydroxy acid, which works as an exfoliant by removing dull and dead cells, thereby exposing healthy cells and increasing production of collagen. In my personal experience, I always find my skin getting that extra radiance after a papaya pack.

Here’s how you can use it:

Take a few pieces of ripe papaya in a bowl, mash it up well (use an electric mixer if you want) and apply on clean skin, maybe a little extra on the affected area. Wait for 15 minutes for it to work its magic, then exfoliate in gentle circular motion with your fingertips for a minute or two, to remove the dead skin. Wash the mask with normal temperature water; do not use soap.

2. Yoghurt

Another ingredient found in almost every kitchen is yogurt. It has lactic acid, which helps with discoloration. Use it as a mask and to exfoliate.

Here’s how you can use it:

Take two tablespoons of organic yogurt, one teaspoon honey and one and half teaspoon oatmeal (please check for any allergies and avoid that ingredient). Mix well and apply to clean skin. Leave for 10 minutes, exfoliate with light circular motions with your fingertips and rinse with water. Use skin-friendly almond, olive or apricot oil (whichever suits you more and again please check for allergies) to moisturise after that. If these oils don’t agree with you, use the moisturiser you are most comfortable with.

3. Tomatoes

Oh! How I love tomato packs for my skin. It removes the dead skin cells; stalls skin darkening and provides your body with natural retinol.

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Here’s how you can use it:

Puree one small size clean tomato (organic please!). Apply it on your face, and wash with slightly warm water after 10 minutes.

Skin health is important, which is why it is essential to take care of it and keep it moisturised. Aloe vera is one such ingredient that does that from the inside out. Get a plant at home. What’s more, it can also be consumed as a drink, applied as moisturiser or even as a pack to heal skin or unwanted marks.  Use this every day! 

The last word

I still insist, prevention is always better than cure. Visit a good dermatologist and understand how to take care of your skin from sun, pollution, dirt, morning and night skin care routine. Eat a healthy diet and keep your skin clean always.

“My advice is based solely on my personal experience. Please feel free to consult a doctor before following any.” States Divya Singh Vishwanath