Skin pigmentation: Causes, risks and 6 effective home remedies to reduce it

Skin conditions that cause inflammation, such as acne, eczema, or injuries, can result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. (Image: Canva)

Skin pigmentation refers to the colouring of the skin, determined primarily by the presence and concentration of melanin, a natural pigment produced by cells called melanocytes. Conditions like melasma, age spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation arise from an overproduction of melanin triggered by factors such as sun exposure, hormonal changes, inflammation, medications, genetics, and aging.

While many pigmentation changes are benign, it's crucial to be cautious if you notice sudden, irregular, or rapidly changing patches of pigmentation. Such changes could indicate underlying health issues, including skin cancer.

What causes skin pigmentation

Sun exposure: UV radiation from the sun triggers the skin to produce more melanin as a defense mechanism. This increased melanin can lead to a tan, but with prolonged exposure, it can also cause areas of hyperpigmentation, such as sunspots or age spots, says Mumbai-based dermatologist Hemlata Mukund.

Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones, especially in women during pregnancy (known as the mask of pregnancy or melasma), from taking birth control pills, or during menopause, can lead to increased melanin production and pigmentation changes, says Mukund.

Inflammation: Skin conditions that cause inflammation, such as acne, eczema, or injuries, can result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This happens because the skin's healing process includes increased melanin production in the affected area.

Medications: Some medications, including certain chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, and hormone treatments, can cause changes in skin pigmentation as a side effect.

Genetics: A genetic predisposition can make some people more susceptible to developing pigmentation disorders. If hyperpigmentation runs in your family, you might be more likely to experience it.

Ageing: As the skin ages, it becomes thinner and less resilient, making it more prone to damage and the development of pigmentation issues like age spots, says Mukund.

Six home remedies to reduce skin pigmentation in summer

Aloe vera gel:

How to use: Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the pigmented areas before going to bed. Leave it on overnight and rinse off in the morning.

Benefits: Aloe vera contains aloin, which has natural depigmenting properties and can help lighten pigmented areas. It also promotes cell regeneration, aiding in the healing process.

Lemon juice and honey:

How to use: Mix equal parts lemon juice and honey. Apply the mixture to the affected areas and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water.

Benefits: Lemon juice has natural bleaching properties due to its high vitamin C content, which can help lighten the skin. Honey is moisturising and has healing properties, making this combination effective for reducing pigmentation.

Apple cider vinegar:

How to use: Dilute apple cider vinegar with an equal amount of water. Apply it to the pigmented areas using a cotton ball. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water. Use once daily.

Benefits: The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can help lighten pigmentation and improve overall skin texture by promoting cell turnover.

Turmeric and milk:

How to use: Make a paste by mixing a teaspoon of turmeric powder with enough milk to form a thick consistency. Apply the paste to the pigmented areas and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before washing off with lukewarm water.

Benefits: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce pigmentation. The lactic acid in milk also acts as a natural lightening agent.

Cucumber extract:

How to use: Grate a cucumber and extract its juice. Apply the juice to the affected areas using a cotton ball. Leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing with water.

Benefits: Cucumber has a cooling effect and contains natural bleaching agents, which can help reduce pigmentation and soothe the skin.

Papaya mask:

How to use: Mash a ripe papaya and apply it to the pigmented areas. Leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing with water.

Benefits: Papaya contains the enzyme papain, which helps exfoliate the skin and reduce pigmentation by removing dead skin cells and promoting new cell growth.

Explanation: Consuming a diet rich in antioxidants helps support skin health from the inside out. Fruits and vegetables high in vitamins A, C, and E can help protect the skin from damage and support the healing process.