Melasma is a skin condition characterised by dark spots and patches on the nose, cheeks and jawline. It most commonly occurs in women. And while it’s generally harmless, it’s definitely something you’d want to get rid of – because who wants spots appearing on their face out of nowhere? Luckily, Ayurvedic treatment for melasma has plenty of options you try. Let’s begin with the causes…
What Caused these Patches on My Face?
There could be many reasons:
- Prolonged exposure to intense Sunlight
- Genetic predisposition
- Hormonal imbalance
- Pregnancy
- Heavy use of cosmetics
- Eating highly spicy food
- Aggravation of the Pitta dosha
- Liver problems
Ayurvedic Treatment For Melasma
1. Turmeric Powder
Turmeric has a wide range of health benefits. It’s a common and effective ingredient used in melasma Ayurvedic treatment. Choose from these 2 methods, and do it daily:
- Add 8 tablespoons of turmeric powder to half a cup of milk. Apply it on your skin and rinse it off after 1 minute.
- Mix turmeric powder with ghee (clarified butter) and form a thick paste. Apply it on your skin for a few minutes and then wash off.
2. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera is a wonder herb. It has proven effective in removing blemishes and dark spots on skin. All you have to do is massage pure Aloe Vera extract (gel) on your skin before going to sleep. The next morning, wash your face well with water. This should produce desired results. Since melasma can arise from excess Pitta in the body, you can also drink Aloe Vera juice to cool your body down. This will not only take care of the melasma, but also cleanse your system.
3. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is an excellent skin care ingredient. Since it reduces pigmentation, it can be used in treatment of melasma in Ayurveda. And it’s a pretty easy remedy: just squeeze out the juice of a lemon and dilute it with a bit of water. Then, massage the juice onto your skin. Let it stay for 10 minutes, and then wash it off with room temperature water. Remember that lemon is high in citrus acid, which can be too harsh for the skin. If you experience intense burning, switch to another remedy.
4. Herbs and Oils
An Ayurvedic expert may prescribe topical oils that treat various kinds of skin problems, including those related to hyperpigmentation. Some of them are:
- Eladi
- Kumkumadi
- Kanaka
- Lodhradi lepa
- Castor oil
You may also be advised to take herbs orally, topically or nasally, such as:
- Turmeric
- Sandalwood
- Cardamom
- Gooseberry
- Aloe Vera
- Lodhra
- Saffron
- Sariva
- Jasmine
5. Lifestyle Factors
Ayurveda treatment for melasma includes making adjustments to your lifestyle. Follow these suggestions:
- Since melasma can arise from or worsen by Sunlight, always wear sunscreen when you step out. And this also applies for cloudy days and winter. Invest in a good quality SPF 30 or more sunscreen. Look for zine oxide and tatanium oxide in the ingredients list. Go a step further and wear a hat too.
- Avoid harsh and heavy makeup – it can only worsen your condition.
- Avoid heavily processed, pungent and sugar-loaded food.
- Stick to fresh, organic and healthy food.
- Exercise and destress regularly – this will help your body recover quicker.
Note:
This article is only for information and not medical advice. We highly recommend that you consult a health professional before you begin Ayurvedic treatment for melasma. If not, then you proceed at your own risk!
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